How to Apply for a Partner Visa in UAE: Complete 2025 Guide

So, you’re thinking about a business setup in the UAE? Or maybe you’re already a partner in a company here and wondering how to lock in your residency. Either way, the Partner Visa is your golden ticket. It’s more than just a formality, it’s a foot in the door to living, working, and building something real in one of the most ambitious economies on the planet.

But here’s the thing: it’s not exactly plug-and-play. There’s paperwork, sure, but also decisions that can impact your setup for years. Let’s unpack the whole process together, the one you actually need to know.

What exactly is a Partner Visa?

In plain English, it’s a residency visa for folks who own (or co-own) a business that’s registered in the UAE. Some call it an Investor Visa, but the gist is the same, you’ve got skin in the game, and the UAE recognizes that by letting you live here legally.

You’ll need to show proof of ownership, which usually means a valid trade license and a Memorandum of Association (MOA) with your name (and your share) clearly stated. In most cases, you may need to meet a minimum share capital requirement (commonly around AED 50,000 in some jurisdictions), depending on the free zone or emirate. You may have a mainland business setup in the UAE or in one of the UAE’s many free zones, each has its own perks, which we’ll get into in a bit.

Bottom line: this isn’t a tourist visa or a job-based permit. This is for people who are putting capital into the country and want to stay a while. Usually, you’ll get a two- or three-year visa with the option to renew.

What do you actually get with this visa?

Quite a bit, actually. Besides being able to live in the UAE legally, you can:

• Open a local bank account
• Apply for a UAE driving license
• Sponsor your spouse, kids, and even household help
• Access healthcare and education
• Come and go from the country without constantly worrying about visa renewals

Here’s a major advantage, no personal income tax. That’s right. Zero. Now, since June 2023, mainland companies making more than AED 375,000 in net profit annually do face a 9% corporate tax. But many free zones still offer tax breaks for income that meets the ‘Qualifying Income’ criteria under UAE Corporate Tax Law, provided you comply with all FTA requirements and avoid conducting business with the mainland without proper licensing. That said, most companies are still required to register for corporate tax, even if they qualify for exemption.

Either way, if you’ve got decent accounting support and a good VAT consultant in your corner, staying compliant isn’t that hard.

Alright, let’s get down to the process

Step one? Get your business up and running. You’ll need:

• A trade license
• Your company’s MOA
• Passport copies
• Passport photos
• Proof that you actually own a stake in the company

Also, make sure your shareholding meets the required minimum, generally around AED 50,000, when you apply.

Next, there’s a medical fitness test (basically a quick checkup to confirm you’re in good health), plus a health insurance policy, and the Emirates ID application.

If you’re applying from outside the UAE, you’ll also need an entry permit. If …If you’re outside the UAE, you’ll need an entry permit before completing the visa process. If you’re already inside the UAE, you can request a status change without exiting the country. Once you’re in, you’ll finish up the medical exam and biometric scans, usually wrapped up in a couple of days.

Then comes the final bit: visa stamping and Emirates ID issuance. Some emirates still stick a physical visa in your passport; others have gone fully digital. Either way, once that’s done, you’re officially a resident.

Free zone or mainland- what’s the difference?

This part’s important, especially if you’re not sure where to set up your business.

Free zones are great if you want full ownership and minimal red tape. No customs duties, easier setup, and in some cases, corporate tax exemptions. The trade-off? You typically can’t sell directly to the UAE mainland unless you appoint a local distributor or set up a branch office approved by authorities.

Mainland businesses, on the other hand, give you full access to the local market. Thanks to a 2021 reform, you can now have 100% foreign ownership in many sectors without needing a local sponsor. That’s a big shift. Just know that setting up on the mainland usually requires a physical office with a registered lease (called Ejari), and that adds to your cost and affects how many visas you can issue. The size of your office space can affect the number of visas your company is eligible to issue.

So, ask yourself: do I need direct access to UAE customers? Or am I fine operating independently within a free zone?

What’s the cost?

Here’s a rough ballpark: anywhere from AED 7,000 to AED 15,000 to get your Partner Visa sorted. This estimate excludes dependent visa costs, PRO fees, and any special approvals or translations that may be required. These figures don’t include your company registration or trade license fees, which vary widely depending on the emirate or free zone. That covers your entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping. The actual amount depends on where you’re setting up, who’s handling your paperwork, and whether you’re going to the free zone or mainland. 

Keep in mind: some free zones include visa costs in their company packages, which can save you a bit of mental math. But don’t forget the recurring stuff, like trade license renewals, mandatory corporate tax registration (even if exempt), proper accounting, and VAT filings if your annual turnover crosses the AED 375,000 threshold.

Oh, and one more thing, your business needs to stay alive. If it goes inactive or skips out on taxes or audits, your visa could be revoked. That’s where having a decent finance team, or at least a VAT consultant or outsourced CFO, can really save your hide.

Can this get me a UAE Golden Visa?

Potentially, yes. If you invest at least AED 2 million, whether in a registered UAE business, real estate, or a fixed deposit, you might be eligible for the UAE’s 10-year Golden Visa. You’ll also need to provide proof that your investment is not loan-funded and that you’ve maintained it for a set period (usually two years). Some categories also require audited financials and a minimum annual tax contribution. It’s not automatic, and there are hoops to jump through, but it’s absolutely doable if your investment qualifies.

Quick heads-up: ignore the rumors about a ‘lifetime Golden Visa’ for AED 100,000. All Golden Visa applications are subject to government vetting and strict eligibility requirements. The Golden Visa is granted strictly based on government-defined eligibility, not fees. There’s no such thing. The Golden Visa is granted based on merit and clear-cut government criteria, not just a one-time fee.

What about renewals?

Most Partner Visas last two to three years. To renew, you’ll need to show that your business is still active. That usually means submitting a valid trade license, updated MOA, and in some cases, bank statements or audited financials, especially if your setup is on the mainland.  

And if things don’t work out? If you choose to shut things down, make sure you officially liquidate your company. That includes cancelling your visa, closing bank accounts, and clearing any debts. Don’t skip this step, it can mess up future applications or even get you banned from re-entry.

Parting thoughts

Getting a Partner Visa isn’t just ticking boxes. It’s a commitment to building something real in a country that’s evolving fast. The opportunities here? Huge. But you’ve got to do it right set up smart, stay compliant, and don’t try to cut corners.

Whether you’re launching your first venture or expanding into new territory, this visa gives you a base. A solid one. Just make sure you’ve got the right people and plans in place from day one.

Thinking of starting? Now’s a good time to explore your options, chat with a business setup consultant, and figure out how to lay the groundwork for something long-term.

Because in the UAE, if you play it smart, the payoff can be more than just business, it can be home.

For the most up-to-date and official requirements, it’s always smart to double-check with the UAE’s official ICP website or consult a licensed business setup consultant.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is for general guidance and informational purposes only. While we strive to keep the content accurate and up to date, visa regulations, tax laws, and investment rules in the UAE are subject to change. We strongly recommend consulting official government sources or a licensed business setup advisor before making any legal, financial, or immigration decisions. We do not accept any liability for actions taken based on this content. Visa requirements and processes may differ by emirate, so always confirm with the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) or the relevant GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs).

Source:
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/finance-and-investment/taxation/corporate-tax
https://kpmg.com/ae/en/home/services/tax/corporate-tax-in-the-uae.html
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/residence-visas/golden-visa
https://adro.gov.ae/Visas/Types-of-Visas/Abu-Dhabi-Golden-Visa/Investors
https://dubailand.gov.ae/en/eservices/request-for-golden-visa-investor
https://m.economictimes.com/nri/migrate/uae-golden-visa-without-sponsor-8-step-application-guide-for-investors/articleshow/122933117.cms
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/golden-visa-in-dubai-can-new-investors-qualify-instantly-with-dh2-million-property-investment/articleshow/121695898.cms
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Arab_Emirates_corporate_law

FAQ

1. How to qualify for a Partner Visa?
To qualify, you’ll need to be a shareholder in a UAE-registered company, either on the mainland or in a free zone. Most zones or authorities expect you to hold at least AED 50,000 in share capital. Your name should appear in the company’s trade license and MOA (Memorandum of Association). Basically, you need to show you’ve got real skin in the game, not just a paper trail.

2. How can I apply for a Partner Visa in the UAE?
Start by getting your company’s paperwork sorted, trade license, MOA, passport copies, and proof of ownership. Then comes the visa application itself, which includes a medical fitness test, Emirates ID registration, and health insurance. If you’re applying from outside the country, you’ll also need an entry permit. Once you’re in, finish up the medicals and biometric scan, and you’re good to go.

3. How much does a Partner Visa cost in the UAE?
It varies, but most people spend between AED 7,000 and AED 15,000 to get it done. That usually covers everything, entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping. Keep in mind, this doesn’t include trade license fees or other business setup costs. And if you’re going through a consultant or using a free zone package, the pricing might look a bit different.

4. What documents are needed to apply for a Partner Visa in the UAE?
Here’s the short list:

• A valid trade license
• Memorandum of Association (with your name and share clearly listed)
• Passport copy
• Passport-sized photos
• Proof of shareholding (like capital contribution or investor certificate)
• Medical fitness certificate
• Valid health insurance
• Emirates ID application form

If you’re applying from abroad, you’ll also need an entry permit.

5. What is the process for renewing a Partner Visa in the UAE?
It’s pretty straightforward. You’ll need to show your company is still active, that means your trade license is renewed, your MOA is up to date, and in some cases, you might need to submit bank statements or audited accounts. Then you redo the medical test, renew your Emirates ID, and get the visa restamped. Just don’t wait till the last minute, start the process at least 30 days before expiry to avoid delays or fines.