If you’re looking to reside legally in the UAE while maintaining control over your business or investments, the Partner Visa is one of the most viable and respected options.
With the UAE’s progressive business landscape, world-class infrastructure, and zero income tax, it’s no wonder investors and entrepreneurs are flocking to Dubai and other emirates to establish their base.
But how does the partner visa work? Who can apply, what does it cost, and what steps should you follow?
Let’s explore everything you need to know.
A Partner Visa also known as a Business Partner or Investor Visa is a self-sponsored residence visa offered to individuals who invest in or co-own a company registered in the UAE.
Unlike employment visas that bind you to one employer, a partner visa provides independence and full legal residency through business ownership.
This visa route is perfect for:
To apply for a Partner Visa, you should:
Document | Purpose |
Valid Passport | ID verification and residency issuance |
Passport-sized Photo | For official application |
UAE Trade License | Proof of business ownership or partnership |
Memorandum of Association | Lists shareholders/partnership status |
Immigration Establishment Card | Required for visa processing |
Entry Permit (if outside UAE) | Legal entry before residency visa application |
Emirates ID application form | National ID for banking, telecom, rentals |
Medical Fitness Certificate | Health check clearance (required for residency) |
UAE Phone number | Needed for registration and notifications |
Note: Documents must often be translated into Arabic and legally attested.
Thinking of becoming a business partner in the UAE? Here’s exactly how to secure your Partner Visa, from company setup to Emirates ID
Begin by setting up a company in the UAE where you are listed as a shareholder or partner. This can be done either in the mainland (via the Department of Economic Development) or through a free zone authority.
Ensure that your name appears on the trade license and Memorandum of Association. The business must be fully registered before the visa process begins.
If you are outside the UAE, your next step is to apply for an entry permit. This is a temporary visa issued by the immigration department that allows you to enter the UAE legally to complete the visa process. If you are already inside the UAE, a status change application may be submitted instead.
Once you are in the UAE or your status is updated, you must take a medical fitness test at a government-approved health center. This typically includes a blood test and chest X-ray. After passing the medical test, submit your biometric data (photo and fingerprints) at an Emirates ID center to initiate the national ID process.
With your business documents, entry permit, medical results, and Emirates ID application ready, you will then submit your residency visa application to the relevant authority either GDRFA (for mainland) or your respective free zone. Upon approval, the visa is issued and either stamped physically in your passport or recorded electronically.
Once your residency visa is approved, your Emirates ID will be printed and delivered. This ID allows you to legally reside in the UAE and access essential services such as banking, telecom, and housing.
From this point, you are considered a legal resident under the Partner Visa category and may also proceed to sponsor your family members, if eligible.
Confused about how to apply? Book your personalized consultation with our experts today!
Fee Component | Range (AED) | Description |
Trade License | 10,000 – 15,000 | Annual; depends on business activity & zone |
Entry Permit | 1,000 – 1,500 | Required for applicants outside UAE |
Establishment Card | 2,000 – 2,500 | Required for immigration services |
Medical Fitness Test | 350 – 700 | Blood test + X-ray at authorized centers |
Emirates ID (2–3 years) | 370 – 1,000 | UAE national ID |
Residency Visa Stamping | 2,000 – 3,000 | Includes processing & stamping fees |
Consultancy Processing Fee (x) | Variable | Charged by your agency |
Additional Assistance (y) | Variable | For document prep, fast-tracking, etc. |
Estimated Total | AED 15,500 + x + y | All-inclusive estimate for 2-year visa |
📝 Fees may vary by emirate, visa duration, and service speed.
While beneficial, the partner visa comes with conditions:
Yes, you can work in the UAE with a Partner Visa. This visa is made for people who are partners or shareholders in UAE companies. The partner visa lets you live and work legally for the company where you hold partnership or shares.
Yes, partner visa applications can be rejected. Common reasons include failing health checks or not meeting character requirements. If you have a criminal record or history of illegal activities, your application may be refused. Not providing complete documents or meeting financial requirements can also lead to rejection.
No, partner visas work differently than permanent residency. The partner visa 820 is temporary and lets you live and work while waiting for your permanent visa decision. The partner visa 801 is permanent and gives you the same rights as citizens or permanent residents to stay indefinitely.
NOC stands for No Objection Certificate for partner visa in UAE. You need this document when sponsoring family members like spouses or children to join you in the UAE. The NOC proves that your current employer or sponsor agrees to your plans to change visa status and include dependents.
Partner visa applications have two main stages. The first stage is the temporary visa that allows you to stay while your application is processed. The second stage is the permanent visa that gives you long-term residency rights and benefits.
How Can Menaherald Help You?
We simplify the Partner Visa process with:
✅ Personalized business setup advice
✅ Government liaison and documentation support
✅ Transparent cost breakdowns
✅ End-to-end visa and ID handling
✅ Family sponsorship assistance
We will contact you under 1 Minute to analyze your case, provide solutions, and calculate costs.
Fill in your contact details, and we’ll get back to you soon
Got any queries?
© 2025 menaherald All rights reserved
© 2025 menaherald All rights reserved
Got any queries?
Fill in your contact details, and we’ll get back to you soon
