The category of the residence permit in the UAE depends on the method by which a foreign national has obtained the right to long-term residence. This can be achieved through purchasing real estate, establishing a private company, enrolling in a university, or employment in a local organization.
Investments in Real EstateThe main condition concerns the amount of funds invested: it must be at least 205,000 dollars. The residence permit is issued for a period ranging from 6 months to 3 years. In this case, it is possible to use a mortgage loan if the down payment exceeds 50% of the property’s value. For expensive properties, the resident visa is issued upon making a down payment of 205,000 dollars.
Establishing Your Own BusinessBy opening a company in a Free Economic Zone (FEZ), a foreigner not only receives tax exemptions and near-ideal business conditions but also resident status. To obtain a visa through entrepreneurial activity, it is necessary to invest at least 19,000 dollars in one’s company, and the resident is permitted to work only in their own organization.
If investments in real estate or starting a business are not suitable for you as a way to obtain a resident visa, there is the possibility of obtaining status through education or employment in a local organization.
- Students: Students enrolled in UAE universities can obtain the right to reside. To enroll in a university, a foreigner must have a sufficient level of English proficiency (tested by IELTS or TOEFL certificates). Most UAE universities admit students only after full payment of the annual course fee (approximately 5-10 thousand dollars). A foreigner residing in the UAE on a student visa cannot engage in employment.
- Employment Visa: The employment visa in the UAE is issued to individuals upon request from a local employer. The inviting company must be officially registered in the country. With a work permit, a foreigner can only work in the organization that issued the invitation. Only qualified specialists who have confirmed their professional skill level can obtain a work permit.