Different Types of Dubai Free Zone Visas at DMCC
You have successfully established a new firm in one of the UAE’s free zones, started the procedures, and want to expand your operations with a new crew. Whether you are employing inside the UAE (talent working at Dubai’s onshore site) or hiring a foreign workforce for DMCC free zone company setup, the Dubai Free Zone visa applications are reasonably straightforward.
However, with so much information accessible today, comprehending the visa process, including eligibility, legalities, and costs, may be intimidating. Most free zone authorities restrict the number of visas granted to each enterprise. Companies may raise their visa quota by expanding their offices or seeking an increase, subject to permission from the free zone government.
This informative blog will assist you in making an educated choice on the processes, kinds of visas, and eligibility criteria for each type of visa opted for DMCC business setup.
About DMCC
DMCC is the world’s leading free zone. FDI Magazine has named it the ‘Global Free Zone of the Year’ nine times, and it is home to almost 22,000 firms, with an average of seven new ones registered daily. With an emphasis on promoting commodity trade flows, DMCC is the premier hub for international commodities such as gold, diamonds, precious metals, and coloured stones. Over the previous three years, they have grown at an average yearly rate of about 10%, accounting for approximately 7% of Dubai’s total GDP, earning them the Economic Impact award.
What is a Free Zone Visa?
A free zone visa in the UAE permits you to operate in designated free zones, such as DMCC, in a tax-free environment with no customs charges or limitations.
Advantages of a Free Zone Visa
One significant advantage is that qualified, free zone residents may benefit from a reduced corporation tax rate on qualifying income, banking and healthcare access, school registration, and other benefits. The ease of registration provides a significant advantage for individuals contemplating a DMCC business setup in the UAE.
Different Types of Free Zone Visas
1. Employment Visa
The Employment Visa is one of the most often granted by DMCC. It is intended for those employed by firms registered in the DMCC free zone. This visa permits expats to reside and work in Dubai lawfully.
Features
- Validity: The employment visa usually is valid for two to three years, depending on the contract with the company.
- Renewable: The visa is renewable, so it may be renewed once it expires.
- Several Entry: Visa holders may enter and depart the UAE several times. Eligibility
- A legitimate employment offer from a DMCC-registered firm.
- Meeting the educational and professional requirements for the employment function.
- Passing medical fitness checks and security screenings.
Application Process
- Offer Letter: The business sends an offer letter to the potential employee.
- Initial permission: The employer seeks initial permission from DMCC.
- Entrance permission: After initial approval, entrance permission is provided, enabling the employee to enter the UAE.
- Medical testing and Emirates ID: Upon arrival, the employee undergoes medical exams and applies for an Emirates ID.
- The last step is to stamp the resident visa on the employee’s passport.
2. Investor/Partner Visa
The Investor or Partner Visa is intended for those who have invested in or collaborated with firms in the DMCC-free zone. It is perfect for entrepreneurs and company owners who want to run their activities in Dubai.
Features
- Validity: Typically, three years.
- Renewable: The visa is renewable, so it may be renewed once it expires.
- Several Entry: Visa holders may enter and depart the UAE several times.
Eligibility
- Proof of investment or cooperation with a DMCC-registered firm.
- Meeting the financial conditions established by DMCC.
- Passing medical fitness checks and security screenings.
Application Process
- Company Registration: Ensure that the company is registered with DMCC. Then, apply for DMCC’s first investor/partner visa approval.
- Entry Permit: Obtain entrance permission before entering the UAE. It is required to complete medical examinations and apply for an Emirates ID.
- Residence Visa Stamping: You get the resident visa stamp on your passport.
3. Dependent visa
The Dependent Visa is intended for family members of those with a valid DMCC visa. This applies to spouses, children, and, in certain situations, parents. The dependant visa enables family members to reside in Dubai and, if qualified, study or work.
Features
- Validity: Typically equals the validity of the sponsor’s visa.
- Renewable: The visa is renewable, so it may be renewed once it expires.
- Several Entry: Visa holders may enter and depart the UAE several times.
Eligibility
- The sponsor must have a valid DMCC visa.
- Enough revenue to sustain dependents.
- Adequate housing in Dubai.
- Passing medical fitness examinations for dependents older than 18 years.
Application Process
- Sponsor Documents: Collect the sponsor’s passport, visa copy, Emirates ID, and salary certificate.
- Dependent Documents: Collect dependents’ passports, pictures, and any other necessary papers (such as marriage and birth certificates).
- Entry permission: Apply for entry permission for your family.
- Medical Tests and Emirates ID: Dependents above 18 must undertake medical tests before applying for an Emirates ID. Stamp the residency visa in your dependents’ passports
4. Freelance Permit and Visa
The Freelance Permit and Visa are suitable for those who wish to work freely and not be bound to a single company. This visa is designed for professionals in a variety of areas, including media, technology, and education.
Features
- Validity: Typically granted for a year.
- Renewable: The permission and visa may be renewed when they expire.
- Several Entry: Visa holders may enter and depart the UAE several times.
Eligibility
- Proof of completed freelancing work or client contracts.
- Relevant credentials and experience in the selected sector.
- Passing medical fitness checks and security screenings.
Application Process
- Apply for a freelancing permit using the DMCC’s online portal.
- Initial approval: Once authorized, an entrance permit is provided.
- Medical Tests and Emirates ID: Take the required medical tests and apply for an Emirates ID.
- Resident Visa Stamping: Complete the procedure by stamping the resident visa in your passport.
5. Student visa
The Student Visa is intended for those continuing their studies in Dubai. This visa permits students to live and study in Dubai as long as they are enrolled in a recognized educational institution located inside the DMCC Free Zone.
Features
- Validity: Typically valid for a year.
- Renewable: The visa is renewable yearly.
- Several Entry: Visa holders may enter and depart the UAE several times.
Eligibility
- Enrollment in an approved educational institution inside the DMCC.
- Sufficient funds to cover education and living costs.
- Passing medical fitness checks and security screenings.
Application Process
- University admission: Request an admission letter from a DMCC-accredited educational institution.
- Initial permission: Request initial permission from DMCC. Obtain entrance permission before entering the UAE. Complete medical examinations and apply for an Emirates ID.
- Resident Visa Stamping: Complete the procedure by stamping the resident visa in your passport.
Conclusion
DMCC provides various visa choices to meet the purposes of DMCC free zone company setup, including employment, investment, freelance work, and education. If you are looking for the same, NH management is your partner. We help entrepreneurs set up a DMCC free zone company. Each visa category has its own set of qualifying requirements and application procedures in place to ensure that expats enter and remain in Dubai as smoothly as possible. Understanding the various kinds of Dubai Free Zone visas at DMCC, NH Management helps companies and people to make educated choices that correspond with their professional and personal objectives, resulting in a successful and compliant stay in the UAE.
