Dubai boasts over 46 thriving free zones offering a whole host of incentives for investors, entrepreneurs and employees. Between the streamlined business setup processes, tax exemptions and world-class infrastructure, it’s no surprise that these free zones have become a magnet for companies across a wide range of industries. One of the standout features of setting up a company in a Dubai free zone is the ease with which you can apply for an employee visa. Employee visas also offer both employers and employees a variety of advantages, so it’s worth kick-starting the process as soon as you can. Unsure of how to apply for a Dubai free zone visa for employees and what benefits are included? In this article, we will explore:
A Dubai free-zone visa is a specific residency permit that allows foreign nationals to live and work in a Dubai free zone. Currently, there are over 46 free zones in Dubai, each catering to different types of businesses and needs. At Charterhouse Lombard, we can help you secure a free zone visa for some of Dubai’s most notable free zones, including
Key features of a Dubai-free zone visa include tax exemptions, simplified business setup with fewer bureaucratic hurdles, full foreign ownership and sector-specific clusters, such as media, finance and healthcare. Plus residents can benefit from Dubai’s strategic location and world-class infrastructure.
Employees can benefit from a whole host of benefits once they secure their employee free zone visa including:
Employees can benefit from tax exemptions, such as 0% income tax and capital gains tax, allowing them to take home a much higher portion of earnings compared to other countries. This makes it easier to invest, save and plan for the future while offering greater financial freedom and a higher standard of living.
Dubai is renowned for its modern infrastructure, from spacious offices to high-speed and reliable transport to state-of-the-art amenities, improving productivity and work experience at the same time. With cutting-edge digital infrastructure, employees enjoy the benefits of fast, secure internet too. Beyond connectivity, Dubai’s free zones offer green spaces, beaches and plenty of space to relax.
Dubai’s free zones are home to hundreds of businesses, from disruptive startups to international corporations. This, combined with the hundreds of networking events that take place across the city every year, allows employees to collaborate and gain exposure to innovative, dynamic industries. Whether through seminars, conferences, or informal meetups, employees can expand their professional circles and stay up to date with the latest developments in their fields. The global nature of Dubai’s free zones means employees are often exposed to international perspectives too.
Dubai’s free zones make it easier for employees to obtain residency and work in the UAE, without having to deal with complicated immigration procedures. The relatively straightforward visa application process involves minimal red tape and quicker approval times compared to traditional visa routes. Free zone employees also benefit from the ability to sponsor family members for residency.
Employees tend to receive health insurance coverage with access to the UAE’s renowned healthcare system, as part of their employment package. The UAE’s healthcare system is known for its high standards and cutting-edge medical technology. Employees can also benefit from services from private healthcare providers, from routine check-ups to more specialised treatments. Some companies even offer wellness programmes, such as gym memberships and mental health support.
Applying for a Dubai free zone visa is a relatively straightforward process, provided you follow the correct steps. To help give you an idea of what to expect, we’ve broken the process down into five stages. However, we highly recommend partnering with a reputable business consultancy to avoid any unnecessary delays. At Charterhouse Lombard, we have helped countless clients obtain free zone visas for their employees, providing comprehensive support throughout the process. Feel free to reach out to one of our experts to find out exactly how we can help you.
Dubai boasts dozens of free zones, each catering to specific industries and offering unique benefits. If you haven’t already done so, select a free zone that best aligns with your business and requirements. For instance, Jebel Ali Free Zone is the largest free zone in the world and caters for businesses in trading, logistics and industrial sectors, while Dubai Knowledge Park is designed for businesses in HR, personal development and training. Remember, the minimum age for an employment visa is 18 years and the maximum age is 60.
Procedures and processing times vary depending on the respective free zone authority, so make sure to check with our team or a free zone representative to better understand requirements. Many free zones have a limit on the number of visas a business can apply for, depending on the size or business activity. Ensure you meet the requirements.
Once you have arranged for an employee work permit and residence visa, the next step is for your employee to undergo medical testing, which includes a blood test and chest x-ray. To apply for an Emirates ID, your employee will need to visit an authorised service centre.
You will need to provide a selection of supporting documents on behalf of your employee. Specific requirements vary depending on the free zone, but you will usually need to provide:
Once you have collated all of the necessary documents, you can submit your application and pay the necessary fees. Processing times and fees vary, depending on the free zone.
At Charterhouse Lombard, we are committed to supporting investors and entrepreneurs in achieving success in the UAE. With more than 18 years of expertise, we have helped countless individuals set up businesses and lives in Dubai and across the wider region. We offer a comprehensive suite of services, including company formation, registration and management of free zone companies, corporate bank account setup and residency support. If you are considering getting free zone visas for your employees, we can help. Reach out to our dedicated team of specialists today to find out how we can help navigate your journey, swiftly and efficiently.
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