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Key Updates and Requirements for Mainland Visas in the UAE
If you are setting up a mainland business in the UAE, you will also need to start thinking about Mainland Visa requirements for you and your family and any members of staff who will be working in the country. As part of the business set-up service, we can advise on the appropriate Visa type for your mainland business and help put together the necessary documentation, managing the process from start to finish.
Obtaining the right mainland visas for employees and individuals is crucial when setting up or operating a business in mainland UAE. The UAE government periodically introduces updates and requirements related to mainland visas to streamline processes, ensure compliance, and support the growth of mainland business. Staying informed about these key updates and requirements is essential for employers, employees, and individuals seeking to work or reside in the UAE.
Know more about Mainland Visas offered in the UAE.
PROCESS
Family Residency Visas Requierments
- Our Strategy
STEP
01
Understand Client Requirements
Getting you the best advise
The first step is to understand the client’s visa requirements based on their business activities, the number of employees they plan to hire, and any specific visa categories needed.
STEP
02
Establish Company in Mainland UAE
Verification
If the client does not have an existing company in mainland UAE, assist them in the company formation process. This includes selecting the appropriate legal structure, obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and registering the company with relevant authorities such as the Department of Economic Development (DED).
STEP
03
Determine Visa Eligibility
Doing the admin for you
Determine the client’s visa eligibility by considering factors such as their role in the company (owner, partner, employee), business activity, and investment value. Each visa category has specific eligibility criteria that need to be met.
STEP
04
Visa Quota and Approvals
Being your support
Check the availability of visa quotas for the company. Depending on the company’s size and activity, there may be restrictions on the number of visas that can be issued. Obtain necessary approvals from the DED or relevant authorities for visa issuance.
STEP
05
Document Collection
Being your support
Collect the required documents from the client and employees for visa processing. This typically includes passport copies, passport-sized photographs, educational certificates, employment contracts, medical fitness certificates, and relevant company documents.
STEP
06
Employment Contract and Offer Letter
Being your support
Prepare employment contracts and offer letters for the employees being sponsored. Ensure that the contracts comply with UAE labor laws and include necessary provisions such as job title, salary, working hours, and benefits.
STEP
07
Visa Application Submission
Being your support
Compile and submit the visa application along with the required documents to the relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA).
STEP
08
Medical Examination
Being your support
Once the visa application is approved, schedule the employees for a medical examination at an approved medical centre. This examination includes tests for infectious diseases and general health assessment.
STEP
09
Emirates ID Registration
Being your support
Assist the employees in registering for Emirates ID, a mandatory identification card for residents in the UAE. This involves submitting the required documents and biometric data at an Emirates ID centre.
STEP
10
Visa Stamping and Residence Permit
Being your support
Once the medical examination and Emirates ID registration are completed, the employees’ passports are submitted for visa stamping. After visa stamping, residence permits are issued, allowing the employees to legally reside and work in the UAE.
- Frequently asked questions
There are various types of visas available for mainland UAE, including:
- Employment Visa: Issued to individuals who have a confirmed job offer from a company registered in mainland UAE.
- Investor Visa: Granted to foreign investors who have established a business in mainland UAE and meet specific investment criteria.
- Partner Visa: Provided to business partners or shareholders of mainland UAE companies.
- Dependent Visa: Allows spouses, children, and other dependents of UAE residents to live in the country.
- Visit Visa: Designed for short-term visits, such as tourism, family visits, or business meetings.
While specific requirements may vary depending on the visa type and individual circumstances, some common requirements for obtaining a mainland visa in the UAE include:
- Valid passport with a minimum validity of six months.
- Completed visa application form.
- Passport-sized photographs.
- Medical fitness certificate.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Employment contract or business documents (depending on the visa type).
- Police clearance certificate (in some cases).
- Proof of financial stability.
The process for obtaining a mainland visa in the UAE typically involves the following steps:
- Sponsorship: A UAE company or an individual who is eligible to sponsor the visa must submit the application on behalf of the applicant.
- Application Submission: The completed visa application and supporting documents are submitted to the relevant authorities, such as the GDRFA or the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- Approval and Entry Permit: If the application is approved, an entry permit or visa is issued, allowing the applicant to enter the UAE.
- Medical Examination: After arrival in the UAE, the applicant must undergo a medical examination at an approved medical center.
- Emirates ID and Residence Visa: Once the medical examination is cleared, the applicant can proceed with the Emirates ID registration and obtain the residence visa.
Yes, it is possible to transfer from a free zone visa to a mainland visa in the UAE. The specific process and requirements may vary depending on the circumstances and the visa types involved. Generally, the individual needs to find employment with a mainland company that is willing to sponsor their visa. The new employer will initiate the visa transfer process, including canceling the free zone visa and applying for the mainland visa on behalf of the employee.
It is advisable to consult with the respective free zone authority and the new employer’s HR department to understand the specific requirements and procedures for transferring from a free zone visa to a mainland visa.
Yes, a mainland visa holder in the UAE can sponsor their family members, including spouses and children, under certain conditions. The individual must meet the eligibility criteria and fulfil the specific requirements set by the authorities. Some common requirements include having a certain salary threshold, suitable accommodation, and the ability to financially support the sponsored family members.
It is recommended to consult with the GDRFA or a reliable immigration service provider to understand the detailed requirements and procedures for sponsoring family members on a mainland visa.