Dubai stands as an attractive destination for those looking for a promising future. Whether it is for business, study, or career purposes, Dubai appeals to all. Especially, the freezones of Dubai are gaining international popularity. Foreigners looking to start a business or explore jobs in Dubai freezones must first obtain the freezone visa Dubai.
Let’s explore the intricacies of the freezone visa in Dubai, including its process, benefits, cost, and much more in this useful guide.
Introduction to Dubai freezones
A freezone is Dubai also known as Dubai free trade zone is a special economic zone where business can operate and benefit from tax and fee exemptions. These economic zones have their own respective governing bodies.
Those looking to work and start business in Dubai often choose freezones because of the advantages the region offers. Freezones are packed with top notch infrastructure, thriving brands, developed communities, and low cost of setup.
Companies that want to establish in freezones can get their registration and business licensing through the respective authority of the selected freezone. In Dubai, there are more than thirty freezones operating currently and each of them are specialized across diverse industries and sectors.
What actually is a freezone visa
For anyone looking to start a bright future in any of the Dubai freezones, first important things would be to get the legal permission to enter, stay and work there. That’s where a freezone visa Dubai comes into scene. A freezone visa is an official document issued by the UAE government that allows foreigners to stay in freezone legally.
Whether you are going to work in UAE based company, work as a freelancer or setup a company in Dubai, you must mandatorily get a Dubai freezone visa.
How and where to get freezone visa in Dubai
The process to get Dubai freezone visa is quite straightforward. All you need to do is apply through the freezone authority’s official channel. If you are employed in freezone company, the hiring company will apply on your behalf and cover all the costs. Say if you are a freelance or business owner, then you can apply yourself.
Nonetheless, here are the general steps for obtaining a freezone visa Dubai:
Step 1: Register for e-channel:
The government of UAE has introduced e-channels, which is online platform, to facilitate the immigration and other government related processes. You may register on the platform for which you will have to provide basic personal details and pay the fees.
Step 2 – Apply for the entry permit:
To enter the borders of the nation, you must first secure an entry permit. The validity of the permit is generally upto 60 days. During these days you can visit the freezone physically and complete the rest of the formalities for your residence visa.
Step 3 – Visa status change:
The process of activating your entry permit is called visa status change. This can be done through three ways:
In-country: Submit the passport to immigration department for permit stamping while you are inside UAE.
Outside country: Submit the passport for stamping to the immigration officer at the airport on your arrival
Border run process: Leave the country by land, re-enter and have it stamped by officer.
Step 4 – residence visa formalities:
Once you are inside Dubai, you may proceed with the residence visa application and formalities. This typically includes:
- Medical assessments: This step is important for making sure you are health wise fit for staying in the nation. This includes chest X-rays and some blood examinations.
- Emirates ID processing: You may apply for the Emirates ID, an identification card for foreigners in UAE, at approved service centers. You also would need to get your biometrics scanned.
- Residence visa stamping: Finally, after you complete above steps, you can submit application for residence visa along with the necessary documents and fees to the respective freezone authority. Your application would be reviewed, and once approved, your freezone visa Dubai would be issued to you.
What makes freezone visa a good choice
Getting a visa in Dubai freezone can prove to be quite beneficial and here’s why:
Access top infrastructure: Freezones in Dubai feature advanced facilities and infrastructure that enable smooth operations and a comfortable lifestyle.
Save on taxes: There is no personal income tax in freezones and very low corporate tax, that too only for those with income beyond the threshold.
Own your business 100%: If you start a business in Dubai freezone as a foreigner, you can own it completely. There is no need of a local sponsor.
Connect with community: Freezones are home to developed business communities and industry leaders.
Reach global markets: Strategic location of Dubai freezones make them a gateway to international markets.
In short, by getting a freezone visa Dubai, you can open a door to massive opportunities and you become part of one powerful economy in which you can grow beyond limits.
Freezones in Dubai offering visas to foreigners
The list of freezones in Dubai goes beyond thirty and each of them are well renowned in their respective industries. Here are some of the most popular Dubai freezones:
- Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA)
- International Free Zone Authority (IFZA)
- Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA)
- Dubai Internet City (DIC)
- Dubai Multi Commodities Center (DMCC)
- Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
- Dubai Media City (DMC)
- Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC)
Documentation requirement for freezone visa Dubai
You must keep the following documents ready for Dubai freezone visa application:
- Filled application form
- Original passport copy
- Passport sized photographs
- Medical fitness certificate
- Security clearance
- Current visa copy, if any
- Freezone trade license, company establishment card copy, share certificate copy, employment contract and any such document related to your position.
Remember, Dubai freezone visa requirements may vary and its best to get advice from PRO expert in UAE.
Validity and renewal of freezone visa
The validity of freezone visa Dubai has been standardized at 2 years. To continue staying in the Emirates legally, you must renew the visa on time. Otherwise, you would face penalties and fines.
Just make sure you always stay vigilant about your visa expiry and the latest guidelines related to its renewal. You can seek expert assistance in case you feel lost. That will ensure your visa renewal request is correct, with complete documentation.
Cost of a Dubai freezone visa
The cost of Dubai freezone visa is generally around AED 3,750*. However, this cost depends on the freezone you are applying in.
For more guidance, you can get in touch with experts.
To conclude
Dubai freezones is one of the greatest initiatives by the Dubai government where individuals and businesses can thrive. Getting a Dubai freezone visa should not be that difficult if you know the process and requirements well.
However, if you still feel stuck with the freezone visa for your business, you can consider getting in touch with Dubiz Business Setup. They have more than 7 years of experience in the field of UAE company formation and have helped many entrepreneurs set up in Dubai. Their team can help you with freezone business setup end to end, including business license, visas, business bank account, and more.
You can book a free consultation with them to know more!
