Company Formation at a Glance:
- Type of route: Self‑sponsored residency visa tied to company ownership.
- Duration: Typically valid for two to five years; renewable as long as the company remains active and compliant.
- Business ownership: Required – you must hold shares or be named as a partner in a licensed company.
- Minimum capital: No fixed minimum capital in many free zones; you only need to register and maintain a valid business licence.
- Job offer required: None – residency is self‑sponsored.
- Local sponsor: Not required in most free zones; foreigners can retain full ownership.
- Family sponsorship: Yes – you can sponsor your spouse, children and, in some cases, domestic staff.
- Work rights: You can live and work in the UAE and manage your own business.
- Pathway to other visas: If your investment grows, you may later qualify for a Green or Golden Visa.
Who Is This Route For?
Business owners & solo shareholders:
Individuals seeking full control over their residency and business without relying on an employer or partner.
Small business & start‑up founders:
Even solo entrepreneurs with a free‑zone licence can qualify; large capital is not required.
Entrepreneurs launching a new venture:
Those who want to establish a company in the mainland or a free zone and manage operations directly.
If you’re unsure, we offer a free assessment.
Benefits of this Pathway:
Key Requirements:
- Establish or own a share in a licensed company: You must either register a new business or hold shares in an existing company in the UAE.
- Valid trade licence and legal documents: The company must hold a valid business licence (free zone or mainland) and a Memorandum of Association listing you as a shareholder or partner.
- Personal documents: Provide a valid passport and recent photo.
- Immigration file and Emirates ID: Prepare an Emirates ID application and open an immigration file; undergo biometrics and medical fitness tests.
- No major capital requirement: In most cases there is no fixed minimum capital, but certain industries may have licensing fees or deposit requirements.
- Active business: Your company must remain active and compliant to renew your visa.
How We Help in this Path
We will support you every step of the way throughout this journey:
We evaluate your entrepreneurial goals, business idea, ownership structure, family plans and budget. This helps determine whether the investor/partner visa is suitable and how your company should be structured (free‑zone or mainland).
We advise on the most appropriate business licence and legal structure, considering your activity, target market, ownership and compliance requirements.
We guide you through company incorporation, secure the trade licence and prepare all personal and corporate documents (passport, photos, Memorandum of Association, Emirates ID application, medical test appointments).
Our team coordinates the visa application process with the relevant authorities. We submit the application for your investor/partner visa and obtain the entry permit or status change.
After entering the UAE (or changing status), we help you complete your medical examination and biometrics and obtain your Emirates ID. We monitor the progress until your residence visa is stamped. We assist with renewals, ensuring your company stays compliant. We also help you plan for future transitions to Green or Golden Visas and advise on business growth, banking and family relocation.
Alternative Paths
If you don’t meet this path criteria, our team can explore other routes such as Talent programmes, Investment options or Business pathways.
Why Eagler Group ?
Specialist Guidance for Business Residency
We analyse your business idea, ownership structure, capital requirements and family goals to design the optimal company formation and residency strategy.
Coordination with Licensed Experts
Your company formation and visa application are handled in collaboration with government‑accredited free zones, corporate service providers and licensed immigration lawyers
Comprehensive support
We focus on clients’ needs abroad, offering practical solutions to all relocating challenges.
FAQs
What is the UAE investor/partner visa?
It is a self‑sponsored residency visa for individuals who own shares or a partnership in a UAE‑licensed company
Do I need a minimum investment or capital?
No major investment is required. In most cases there is no fixed minimum capital; you simply need to establish or own a share in a licensed company and pay the applicable licence fees
How long is the visa valid?
The investor/partner visa is generally issued for two to five years and can be renewed as long as your company remains active and compliant
Can I sponsor my family?
Yes. Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children and, in some cases, domestic staff.
Do I need a local sponsor or Emirati partner?
No. Many free zones allow full foreign ownership, so you can own 100% of your company without a local sponsor
Can a single owner or small business apply?
Yes. Even solo entrepreneurs with a free‑zone licence qualify for the investor visa; the visa is not limited to large corporations
Can I upgrade to a Green or Golden Visa later?
Yes. If your business grows and meets the capital or impact thresholds, you may be eligible to transition to a Green or Golden Visa without leaving the country
Does Eagler Group handle everything?
We guide you from the initial assessment to obtaining the licence, managing paperwork, coordinating with lawyers and assisting with renewal and potential upgrades.
Ready to Find Out if This Pathway is Right for You?
Share your details with our team and we’ll review your profile, goals, and eligibility to see whether this route is a realistic option for you.