What qualifications are required to secure an investor visa in the UAE?
Securing an investor visa in the UAE requires meeting specific criteria designed to attract and facilitate foreign investment. The investor visa, also known as a long-term residence visa, is typically valid for 5 or 10 years and provides numerous benefits, including the ability to reside in the UAE while maintaining investments. Here are the key qualifications and requirements:
1. Investment Amount:
5-Year Investor Visa: Requires a minimum investment of AED 5 million (approximately USD 1.36 million) in real estate or other eligible sectors.
10-Year Investor Visa: For investments exceeding AED 10 million (approximately USD 2.72 million) in sectors like real estate, business, or industrial ventures.
2. Type of Investment:
Real Estate: Investment must be in properties within the UAE that are either completed or under construction. The investment can be in one property or a portfolio of properties.
Business: Investment in a company or start-up business within the UAE.
Sectors: Investment can also be in industries such as manufacturing, health care, or education.
3. Documentary Requirements:
Proof of Investment: Documentation that demonstrates the investment amount, such as property deeds, company registration documents, or bank statements showing the investment.
Personal Identification: Valid passport, recent photographs, and possibly a UAE residence permit if already residing in the country.
Background Check: Clean criminal record certificate from the applicant’s country of origin and/or residence.
Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage within the UAE.
4. Application Process:
Submission: Submit the application through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or the Dubai Land Department, depending on the type of investment.
Approval: The application will be reviewed, and approval is granted based on meeting all investment and documentation criteria.
Residence Visa Issuance: Upon approval, the investor visa will be issued, allowing the investor and eligible dependents to reside in the UAE.
5. Additional Considerations:
Renewal: The investor visa is renewable based on the continued maintenance of the investment.
Dependents: Investor visas often allow for the sponsorship of family members, including spouses and children.
Supporting Data:
The UAE government has streamlined the investor visa process to support economic growth and attract foreign capital. Sources such as the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) and UAE business portals provide up-to-date guidelines and requirements for securing an investor visa.