The UAE boasts some of the best amenities and infrastructure in the world. For example, UAE residents have access to outstanding healthcare facilities in private hospitals and sophisticated clinics. Also, there is a wide range of internationally accredited private schools offering English language education from nursery to primary school and through to high school. Many of the schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi follow the UK schooling system.
Dubai also has one of the world’s leading offshore business sectors with the Dubai International Financial Centre. This prestigious free zone offers a range of financial benefits such as zero corporate, personal, import and export taxes. In addition, the Dubai free zone offers access to major international banks.
How to Get a Residency in the UAE?
There are six principal ways for foreigners to get a UAE residency permit. The most popular ways to become a resident are through employment or incorporating a company. However, residency in the UAE is also possible by purchasing real estate, studying, being married to a UAE resident, or retiring.
Here are the requirements for getting a residency in the UAE.
Incorporating Your Company in the UAE
Who can apply?
One of the easiest ways to get UAE residency is to apply as an investor or shareholder.
How long does it take?
It takes between two and eight weeks to incorporate a company in the UAE, depending on whether it’s an offshore company or a limited liability company (LLC).
Is there any regulation for businesses?
All incorporated companies must meet the relevant Economic Substance Regulations in the Emirate.
How long is residency valid?
Investors who gain UAE residency get a permit that is valid for two years.
As a Family Member of UAE Resident or National
Who can apply?
Family members of employers and employees in the UAE with a valid residency permit can apply for residency. To be eligible, the UAE resident or national must earn at least AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation.
Required documents
The necessary documents to apply for residency as a family member of UAE resident or national include the following:
- Copies of passports and passport-size photos
- Medical clearance of all applicants over 18 years of age
- Copy of the UAE resident or national’s employment contract
- Certificate of earnings
- Legalised marriage certificate
- Registered tenancy contract
- Copy of a recent utility bill
How long does it take?
It takes between ten and 15 days to process documents for a family residence permit in the UAE
Retirement
Who can apply?
Any retired person over 55 years of age can apply for a long-term residency permit. The eligibility requirements are as follows:
- Investment in a property worth over AED 2 million
- Savings of over AED 1 million
- An active income of at least AED 20,000
Required documents
To prove financial stability, retirees applying for UAE residency should show bank statements from the previous six months, a copy of the property title deed, and the usual documents for residency permit applications. Additionally, it is required to show a valid health insurance policy.
How long does it take?
It can take up to two weeks to process a UAE Retirement Residency application.
How long does residency valid?
The UAE residency permit for retirees lasts for two years.
Employment Contract
What kind of company?
You can apply for residency in the UAE if you plan to work in a company based in the Emirates. Additionally, applying for a residency is essential if you want to work in the Emirati government.
How long does it take?
It takes two to three weeks to process the initial work entry permit. This document is valid for two months, during which time you should apply for residency.
Required documents?
The necessary documents for working in the UAE include the following:
- An employment contract or signed offer letter
- Health insurance and medical fitness certificate
- Copy of passport
- Copy of the company’s establishment card
Contact Charterhouse Lombard
If you’re interested in obtaining a UAE residency, contact Charterhouse Lombard. We can help manage the entire process. Contact us today for expert advice.
