In today's globalized world, establishing a presence in a thriving economy like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can provide significant opportunities for individuals and businesses. One of the most effective ways to benefit from this region is by obtaining a UAE Residency Visa, which provides a wide range of personal and professional advantages. Additionally, the UAE’s Golden Visa program offers a compelling option for long-term residency, providing foreign nationals with numerous benefits in one of the world’s most vibrant business hubs (read more about the UAE Golden Visa in our following publications).

The UAE Residency Visa: Key Pathways

Securing UAE residency not only grants you the right to live and work in one of the most vibrant regions in the world but also serves as a smart strategy for optimizing your tax situation. Below are the primary methods to obtain UAE residency:

Business Formation: Establishing a business in the UAE, either as a Mainland company or a Free Zone entity, offers a strategic route to residency. Entrepreneurs are eligible to obtain a resident visa as part of the business setup process, perfectly aligning their residency with their business objectives. This option is ideal for those looking to either expand an existing venture or launch a new one in a business-friendly environment.

Employment: Obtaining employment with a UAE-based company is one of the most direct pathways to residency. An employment visa is tied to your job and gives you the legal right to live and work in the UAE.

Real Estate Investment: Investing in real estate is another viable route to UAE residency. By purchasing property or multiple properties with a total value of at least AED 750,000 (approximately USD 204,200), you can not only secure residency status but also get the opportunity for financial returns from the UAE’s flourishing real estate market.

The UAE Residency: Other Possible Options to Obtain

Additional pathways to residency include:

• Green visa for freelancers, self-employed individuals, and skilled professionals.
• Virtual work residence visa for those who work remotely for non-UAE companies or are business owners outside the UAE.
• Blue visa for individuals who have made an exceptional contribution towards the environment’s protection and sustainability, both inside and outside the UAE.
• Residence visa for the retired.
• Student visa for those pursuing education in the UAE.
• Residence visa for family members for bringing your family members to the UAE. 

Advantages of the UAE Residency

Obtaining UAE Residency goes far beyond just securing legal status. It unlocks a range of opportunities that can enhance both your lifestyle and business prospects. As a UAE resident, you have the right to:

• Live, work, and study in the UAE.
• Open personal and corporate bank accounts, facilitating both business and personal financial management.
• Enjoy advantages provided by the UAE’s favorable tax system.
• Access world-class healthcare and education services.
• Apply for a UAE driving license.
• Experience a high standard of living in a secure and dynamic environment.

Residency and Tax Planning Benefits

Obtaining UAE residency comes with significant tax planning advantages, making it an appealing choice for individuals and businesses alike. The UAE’s favorable tax regime, which includes no personal income tax and a relatively low 9% corporate tax, provides a highly attractive environment for professionals and entrepreneurs looking to optimize their financial planning. Moreover, if you choose to get the UAE Residency through investment in real estate, you will benefit the corporate tax exemption of income generated from personal real estate investments.

To formalize your tax residency and fully benefit from the UAE’s tax advantages, you can obtain a UAE Tax Residency Certificate (TRC). This certificate, issued by the UAE Federal Tax Authority, is essential for proving that you are a resident of the UAE for tax purposes and ensures compliance with both UAE regulations and international tax treaties, which the UAE has with numerous countries.

The ease of maintaining residency and the certainty of its tax benefits make the UAE an ideal hub for entrepreneurs, investors, and high-net-worth individuals.

Streamlined Process with Trusted Guidance

The process of obtaining a UAE Residency Visa involves numerous requirements and procedural steps, starting with choosing the right pathway for your residency application, proving your identity, fulfilling visa eligibility criteria, and submitting the necessary documentation. While the steps may seem complex, having the right guidance can greatly simplify the process. Working with a dedicated team of professionals can ensure that your application is handled efficiently, increasing the likelihood of a smooth and successful outcome.

Need Help?

Feel free to reach out to experts of the DiLex Group team - we’re here to guide you every step of the way and make the process as seamless as possible.