If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a country that blends luxury, safety, and limitless opportunities, the UAE might just be the perfect place for you. Getting UAE residency through company formation is one of the most popular and straightforward routes for entrepreneurs and professionals alike. It’s not just about owning a business; it’s about building a life in one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
This complete guide outlines how to obtain a UAE residency visa through company formation, covering eligibility, benefits, the step-by-step application process, and document requirements. It also explores alternative residency options to help you make a fully informed decision.
With residency through company formation, you can enjoy long-term stability, access to global markets, and the chance to sponsor your family members. Plus, with the UAE’s business-friendly policies, zero personal tax, and elite lifestyle, it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing this path. Whether you’re planning to start your own business or expand your existing one, this route offers both freedom and opportunity. Ultimately, this allows you to truly make the UAE your home while pursuing your professional goals.
What is UAE Residency Through Company Formation?
UAE residency through company formation is one of the most accessible and rewarding ways for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals to make the UAE their second home. Instead of relying on employment or real estate investments, this pathway allows individuals to build their future by establishing a business in the UAE, which in turn secures long-term residency for themselves and their families.
Essentially, residency through the company formation program allows expats to start a company in the UAE and obtain a residency visa linked to their business. It’s a practical choice for those who want both business growth and personal stability in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. Unlike the UAE Golden Visa, which is designed for exceptional talents or large-scale investors, this route focuses on empowering business owners and innovators who want to contribute to the region’s growing economy.
Benefits of UAE Residency Through Company Formation
Obtaining a UAE residency through company formation isn’t just about doing business; it’s about unlocking a lifestyle filled with opportunities, stability, and growth.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or freelancer, this pathway offers a seamless way to establish your presence in one of the world’s most thriving economies. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Retain Full Control and Profits: The UAE allows 100% foreign ownership of businesses in most free zones and even in specific mainland sectors. This gives investors complete control over their operations and profits, making residency in the UAE a truly empowering choice.
- Maximize Your Earnings in a Tax-Friendly Hub: The UAE offers a tax-friendly environment with 0% personal income tax and competitive corporate tax rates. For entrepreneurs looking to maximise profits while enjoying residency benefits, setting up a company here is both practical and rewarding.
- Residency for Family Members: One of the most human advantages of this route is that it extends to your loved ones. With a residency visa obtained via company formation, you can easily sponsor your spouse, children, and even domestic staff. It ensures your family enjoys the same sense of security and belonging.
- Access to Global Markets: The UAE is strategically positioned between Asia, Europe, and Africa, serving as a global business hub. With a UAE residency visa, you can travel easily, expand internationally, and access a vast network of international partners.
- A Streamlined and Efficient Setup Process: The UAE’s government has streamlined its business setup process to make it fast, transparent, and efficient. From digital applications to quick licensing, the process of obtaining residency in the UAE is designed to save time and effort for investors.
- Stable and Secure Environment: Living and working in the UAE means enjoying one of the safest and most politically stable countries in the world. The nation’s strong infrastructure, healthcare, and education systems make it an ideal place for both personal and professional growth.
- Long-Term Residency Opportunities: Through continuous business operations, you can renew your visa indefinitely. Moreover, successful investors may even qualify for long-term or Golden Visas, making UAE residency a gateway to lasting stability.
- Enhanced Credibility and Networking: Having a UAE-registered company automatically boosts your brand’s reputation. It opens doors to collaborations, partnerships, and opportunities within a growing business ecosystem where innovation and entrepreneurship are highly valued.
In essence, this residency status offers much more than just legal status; it’s a step towards financial independence, family security, and global recognition. It’s where your business dreams and lifestyle aspirations can grow together.
Eligibility for UAE Residency Through Company Formation
To qualify for UAE residency through business setup, individuals must meet certain conditions depending on their role, investment type, and company structure.
- Business Owners and Investors: Anyone who establishes a company, whether on the mainland or in a free zone, is eligible for residency. The business can be commercial, professional, or industrial in nature, as long as it holds a valid trade license and operates legally.
- Shareholders and Partners: If you are a shareholder or partner in a UAE-registered company, you are also eligible to apply for a residence visa. The number of visas available to shareholders often depends on factors like company size, office space, and business activity.
- Company Employees: Employees working under a UAE-registered company are eligible for sponsorship for a residence visa, provided they have a valid employment contract and meet the minimum salary or designation requirements set by the UAE authorities.
- Freelancers and Sole Proprietors: The UAE allows freelancers and solo entrepreneurs to obtain their residency by registering under a free zone or mainland license. This gives independent professionals the same benefits as larger business owners, including the right to live and work in the UAE.
- Family Members of Business Owners: A significant advantage of residency in the UAE is that it extends to dependents. Business owners can sponsor their spouse, children, and even domestic staff once their visa is approved, making relocation smooth and family oriented.
Requirements for UAE Residency Through Company Formation
Once eligibility is confirmed, certain documents and conditions must be fulfilled to process the residency visa successfully.
- Valid Trade License: Your company must have a valid and active trade license issued by the relevant mainland or free zone authority.
- Establishment Card: An Establishment Card (or company immigration card) is mandatory for visa applications. It allows your business to sponsor employees and dependents legally.
- Proof of Business Ownership or Partnership: You’ll need to provide official documentation showing your ownership, shareholding, or partnership in the company.
- Office Space or Lease Agreement: Depending on your business activity and jurisdiction, you may be required to submit a tenancy contract or a Flexi-desk lease agreement as proof of your business location.
- Medical Fitness and Emirates ID: All applicants must undergo a medical fitness test and apply for an Emirates ID card as part of the visa process.
- Clean Criminal Record and Valid Health Insurance: Applicants must present a clear criminal record and hold valid health insurance coverage, as per UAE regulations.
- Minimum Investment or Capital: While there is no universal minimum investment amount, some free zones or mainland authorities may have specific capital requirements based on business activity and category.
In essence, UAE residency is open to anyone looking to start or expand their business in a stable, tax-friendly, and globally connected environment. With proper guidance and documentation, you can seamlessly establish your business and secure long-term residency for yourself and your family in the UAE.
How to Apply for UAE Residency Through Company Formation?
If you’re looking to make the UAE your new home while building your business, residency through company formation is one of the most seamless and rewarding routes.
This process not only lets you establish your own company but also provides you and your family with long-term residency in the UAE. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how it works.
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure and Jurisdiction
The first step in obtaining UAE residency is deciding where and how you want to set up your business.
You can choose between the mainland, free zone, or offshore setup, each offering unique benefits depending on your business goals. For example, a mainland company allows you to trade directly within the UAE, while free zones provide 100% ownership and tax benefits.
At this stage, consulting experts like Shuraa Business Setup can help you choose the best structure and location that aligns with your vision and budget.
Step 2: Register Your Company and Obtain a Trade License
Once you’ve decided on your business structure, the next step is to register your company with the authorities concerned and obtain a trade license. This license officially allows you to conduct business in the UAE. The process involves submitting your business name, activity details, passport copies, and other required documents.
With Shuraa Business Setup’s end-to-end support, this step becomes much easier as they handle the entire documentation and registration process on your behalf.
Step 3: Get Name Approval
A company’s name reflects its identity. Submit your proposed name for approval with either the Free Zone Authority or the Department of Economic Development (DED), depending on your chosen jurisdiction. Once approved, you’re officially on your way to establishing your business presence.
Step 4: Apply for Your Establishment Card
After obtaining your trade license, you need to apply for an Establishment Card (also known as a company card). The immigration department issues this card, linking your company with the Ministry of Interior, which then allows you to apply for residence visas under your company name.
Step 5: Secure a Physical Office or Flexi Desk
Depending on your business setup, you’ll need a physical office or a flexi desk provided by Free Zone authorities. This ensures your company complies with UAE regulations and provides a credible business address.
Step 6: Secure Your Entry Permit to the UAE
Next, you’ll need to apply for an entry permit, which allows you to enter the UAE legally to complete the residency process. This permit is typically valid for 60 days and can be converted into a residency visa after you complete the remaining formalities within the country.
Step 7: Complete Medical Tests and Emirates ID Registration
Once you’re in the UAE, you must undergo a mandatory medical fitness test and apply for your Emirates ID. The Emirates ID serves as your official identification within the UAE, allowing you to access various services such as banking, healthcare, and housing.
Step 8: Open a UAE Bank Account
A corporate bank account is essential for managing finances and conducting business transactions. Banks in the UAE typically require your trade license, company documents, and other supporting identification for account setup.
Step 9: The Final Step: Get Your Residency Visa Stamped
The final step is getting your UAE residency visa stamped in your passport. This visa is usually valid for two to three years, depending on your business setup. Once approved, you officially become a UAE resident and can sponsor your family members, dependents, and even domestic staff under your company.
Simplify the Process with Shuraa Business Setup!
While these steps may seem tricky, partnering with Shuraa Business Setup makes the journey smoother. From choosing the right business activity to securing approvals and completing visa formalities, their expertise ensures that you can focus on growing your business while they handle the complex paperwork.
Need a broader overview? Learn more about the general process of How to Get a UAE Residence Visa.
Document Required for UAE Residency Through Company Formation
Obtaining UAE residency through company formation involves two main steps: setting up your company and applying for your residence visa. Each step requires specific documents:
Documents for Company Formation:
- Passport copies
- Business plan
- Initial approval certificate
- Office lease agreement
- Passport-sized photos
- Trade license application
- Memorandum & Articles of Association (MOA & AOA)
- Establishment card
Documents for UAE Residency Permit:
- Passport copies
- Trade license & certificate of incorporation
- Passport-sized photographs
- Medical fitness certificate
- Ejari certificate
- Proof of relationship
- Emirates ID application
- No Objection Certificate (NOC)
- Health insurance
This streamlined checklist helps you prepare all essentials in advance, making the process smoother and faster.
Also Read: How to Get Permanent Residency in UAE
Alternative Residency Options in the UAE
While forming a company is a powerful path to residency, it’s not the only one. The UAE provides a spectrum of visas tailored to diverse lifestyles and goals. Discover which of these prestigious pathways align with your ambitions.
1. The Long-Term Investor: 10-Year Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa is designed for high achievers and substantial investors; this visa offers a decade of stability and is the UAE’s most prestigious residency permit.
- Who it’s for: Investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, exceptional talents, and outstanding students.
- Key Benefits:
- Live, work, and study in the UAE for up to 10 years.
- Sponsor your family members.
- 100% foreign ownership of mainland companies.
- Pathway: Property investment from AED 2 million or other qualifying investments and achievements.
2. The Property Investor: 3-Year Renewable Visa
If you’re looking to plant roots through real estate, the Property Investor Visa offers a direct link between your investment and your residency status.
- Who it’s for: Individuals who purchase property in Dubai.
- Key Benefits:
- A renewable 3-year residency visa.
- Eligibility for any age, with individual or joint purchases.
- Pathway: Purchase a completed residential property valued at a minimum of AED 1 million.
3. The Independent Professional: 5-Year Green Visa
Break free from sponsorship requirements. The Green Visa offers five years of self-sponsored residency for skilled professionals and freelancers.
- Who it’s for: Skilled employees, freelancers, and investors.
- Key Benefits:
- 5-year validity without the need for an employer sponsor.
- Greater flexibility and career autonomy.
- Pathway: For employees, a minimum salary of AED 15,000. For freelancers, an annual income proof of AED 360,000.
4. The Global Nomad: Remote Work Visa
Live in the Dubai lifestyle while working for a company or running your own business from anywhere else in the world.
- Who it’s for: Remote employees and entrepreneurs with clients outside the UAE.
- Key Benefits:
- Legally reside in Dubai for one year (renewable).
- Sponsor your family.
- Access to all of Dubai’s world-class services.
- Pathway: Proof of employment or business ownership with a minimum monthly income of USD 5,000.
5. The Retiree: 5-Year Retirement Visa
With the UAE Retirement Visa, you can securely enjoy your golden years in the sun, safety, and luxury of the Emirates.
- Who it’s for: Retirees aged 55 and above.
- Key Benefits:
- A renewable 5-year visa.
- Experience a high-quality, secure retirement.
- Pathway: Meet one of three criteria: monthly income of AED 20,000, savings of AED 1 million, or property investment of AED 2 million.
6. The Traditional Route: Employment Visa
The classic pathway for those with a job offer from a UAE-based company.
The Employment Visa is the classic pathway for those with a job offer from a UAE-based company.
- Who it’s for: Individuals employed by a UAE entity.
- Key Benefits: Your employer handles the entire sponsorship and visa process.
- Pathway: A valid employment contract from a licensed UAE company.
Unsure which path is right for you? The experts at Shuraa can assess your profile and guide you to the perfect residency solution. Contact us for a free consultation.
Want to explore all options? Read our full guide on the Types of Residency Visas in the UAE
Make UAE Your Home Through Company Formation with Shuraa!
Securing UAE residency through company formation is more than just a legal process; it’s an opportunity to build a life in a country known for its safety, luxury, and unmatched business potential. By establishing your business in the UAE, you not only gain long-term residency for yourself but can also sponsor your family, access global markets, and enjoy a tax-friendly environment that empowers your professional and personal growth.
With residency through company formation, you’re choosing stability, credibility, and a platform to expand your business while embracing a vibrant, cosmopolitan lifestyle. With expert guidance from Shuraa Business Setup, the entire journey, from choosing the proper business structure to finalising your residency visa, becomes smooth, efficient, and stress-free.
Start your UAE journey today. Contact us at +971 4 408 1900, send a WhatsApp to +971 50 777 5554, or email us at info@shuraa.com for fast and professional assistance. Let Shuraa Business Setup help you turn your business dreams into a permanent home in the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get residency after company formation?
The entire process, from company registration to receiving your residency visa stamp, typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks. This can vary depending on the emirate, free zone, and the completeness of your application. With expert assistance, the process can be streamlined for the fastest possible timeline.
2. What is the minimum investment required for residency through company formation?
There is no universal minimum investment set by the UAE government. However, the specific free zone or mainland authority where you establish your business may have minimum share capital requirements based on your chosen business activity. It’s best to consult with a business setup expert to understand the requirements for your specific case.
3. Can I sponsor my parents or extended family?
The standard residency visa obtained through company formation allows you to sponsor your spouse and unmarried children under 18. Sponsoring parents is more complex and typically requires meeting specific conditions, such as proving a minimum monthly salary and providing suitable accommodation. It is often assessed on a case-by-case basis.
4. Do I need to be physically present in the UAE to apply?
No, you do not need to be in the UAE to start the company formation process. The initial steps can be handled remotely. However, you will need to enter the UAE on an entry permit to complete the final stages, such as the medical test, biometrics for the Emirates ID, and visa stamping.
5. How long is the residency visa valid, and can it be renewed?
The initial residency visa is typically valid for 2 or 3 years, depending on your company’s license and jurisdiction. It is fully renewable as long as your company remains active and in good standing with the authorities. Continuous renewal offers a path to long-term stability.
6. Is there a minimum salary or income requirement for this visa?
For business owners and investors obtaining their own residency through their company, there is no minimum salary requirement. The visa is tied to your business ownership, not a personal salary. However, if you are sponsoring family members, some emirates may have minimum income requirements to prove you can support your dependents.
7. Can I work for another company in the UAE on this visa?
No, the residency visa obtained through your own company formation is specifically for you to manage and operate your own business. If you wish to take up employment with another company, you will need to obtain a new visa under your employer’s sponsorship.
8. What is the difference between this and the UAE Golden Visa?
The key difference is the focus. Residency through company formation is for active business owners and entrepreneurs who are running a day-to-day operation. The Golden Visa is a long-term (5-10 year) residency aimed at investors, highly skilled professionals, scientists, and exceptional students, often requiring a significant one-time investment or meeting specific talent criteria.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations.
