5 Essential Steps to Get Your UAE Business Visa

Navigating the UAE Business Visa Process

Step 1: Establish Your Business in the UAE

Before applying for a business visa, you must first establish a legal business entity in the UAE. This could be a mainland company, a free zone company, or a branch office. The type of establishment will determine the number of visas you can apply for and the applicable regulations.

Step 2: Apply for an Entry Permit

Once your business is registered, you can apply for an entry permit (also known as an e-visa or visa on arrival), which allows you to enter the UAE. This is typically valid for 60 days and serves as a precursor to obtaining your residency visa. You can apply through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA).

Step 3: Complete Medical Fitness Test

After entering the UAE with your entry permit, you must undergo a medical fitness test at an approved health center. The test includes a blood test and chest X-ray to screen for specific conditions. The results are typically available within a few days.

Step 4: Emirates ID Registration

You will need to register for an Emirates ID, which is a mandatory identification card for all UAE residents. The application process includes biometric data collection (fingerprints, photograph) and can be completed at designated typing centers or through the ICA website.

Step 5: Visa Stamping in Passport

The final step is the actual visa stamping in your passport. Once your medical test is cleared and Emirates ID registration is complete, your residency visa will be stamped in your passport. This residence visa is usually valid for 2-3 years, depending on your company type, and can be renewed before expiration.