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A mainland visa is a legal permit for a person to live and work in the Dubai mainland. Mainland jurisdiction allows a wide range of visas for diverse audiences, including employment visas, golden visas, green visas, blue visas, retirement visas, and virtual work visas. Each type of visa has a different validity, caters to a specific audience, and has requirements that vary with the type. For instance, a golden visa is a 10-year residence available for investors, entrepreneurs, elite students, and talented professionals. Hence, the criteria for funds and education required will vary depending on the visa opted for.
The cost of a visa varies depending on the type and validity; for instance, the cheapest visa is a 60-day visit visa, which comes at 300 AED; for a retirement visa, the cost rises to 3,714.75 AED, making it the most costly. Mainland visas allow individuals and businesses to reside and conduct business activities on the mainland with no geographical restrictions, providing higher economic value than their charges.
The requirements for a mainland visa change based on the visa type, but generally, include an initial entry permit, health certificate from the Emirate health service, Emirates ID registration, sponsorship certificate/proof of funds/education certificate.
The application process for the visa starts by seeking an entry permit, lasting for 60 days, which allows applicants to come to Dubai and begin their residence visa process. Next, the applicant applies for their desired visa through the AMER service center or GDRFA website, submits the documents required, and completes their visa application. It takes approximately 48 hours for the visa processing to complete. The validity of a visa varies depending on its type; for instance, a golden visa is valid for 10 years, while a green visa comes with a 5-year renewable validity.
In this article, we will discuss mainland visas, their types, costs, benefits, requirements, approvals, duration, and much more. Let’s go!
What is a Mainland Visa in Dubai?
The Dubai Mainland Visa is a legal permit, issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), allowing individuals to live, work, or start their business in the Dubai mainland. This visa is typically sponsored by an employer or a company based in the mainland and enables the holder to reside, work, and conduct business activities in Dubai. You can also apply independently for an investor, retirement, and freelance visa as per the Department of Economy and Tourism. The specific requirements, eligibility criteria, and application process may vary depending on various factors such as job category, salary level, educational qualification, etc.
What are the Types of Mainland Visas in Dubai?
The types of mainland visas are designed to cater to unique audiences, who are interested in different activities in the region, such as investments, jobs, and residence. The types of mainland visas are listed below.
- Employment Visa: Required for working in Dubai mainland, sponsored by the employer.
- Golden Visa: 10-year residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and talented professionals.
- Green Visa: 5-year residency for skilled professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs.
- Virtual Work Visa: 1-year residency for remote workers employed by companies outside the UAE.
- Retirement Visa: 5-year renewable residency for retirees aged 55+ meeting financial criteria.
- Blue Visa: 10-year residency for contributors to environmental protection and sustainability.
- Business Visa: For entrepreneurs and investors establishing or managing businesses in Dubai.
- Dependent Visa: Allows UAE residents to sponsor family members with proof of kinship.
- Student Visa: For international students pursuing higher education in Dubai, sponsored by institutions.
- Tourist Visa: Short-term stay for leisure or visiting family, valid for 30-60 days.
- Freelance Visa: For independent workers in specialized fields with proof of income.
- Mission Visa: Short-term work permit for temporary job roles, valid for up to 90 days.
Employment Visa
An employment visa is required for individuals who intend to work in the Dubai mainland. This visa is sponsored and handled by the employer, typically a company based in the UAE mainland. It allows foreigners to legally work and reside in the UAE for the duration of their employment contract.
Golden Visa
The Golden Visa is a 10-year residency visa for investors, entrepreneurs, talented professionals, and high-achieving students as per GDRFA. The visa focuses on retaining talent and supporting innovation, removes the necessity of sponsorship, and allows holders to sponsor their families. The requirements for this visa vary depending on whether you are applying as an investor, professional, or elite student.
Green Visa
The Green Visa is a recent addition and allows 5-year residency for skilled professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs. All applicants for a Green visa are required to be university graduates or meet a 1-million AED investment in the business. It allows holders to live and work in the UAE without requiring employer sponsorship. It also provides family sponsorship benefits, offering greater autonomy and flexibility for professionals.
Virtual Work Visa
Dubai’s Virtual Work Visa is a one-year residency visa designed for individuals working remotely for companies outside the UAE. This program is ideal for professionals seeking to live in Dubai while continuing their remote work. Applicants must provide proof of employment with a minimum one-year contract, a monthly income of at least $3,500 (or equivalent), and evidence that their work is conducted remotely as per the Department of Economy and Tourism. Holders of this visa are not permitted to work for UAE-based companies.
Retirement Visa
Retirees can opt for the Retirement Visa, which allows individuals aged 55 and above to reside in Dubai. Eligibility depends on financial criteria, including significant savings and investments of a minimum of 1 million AED, and proof of a steady monthly income minimum of 180,000 AED. This visa offers a renewable 5-year residency, enabling retirees to enjoy a high-quality lifestyle.
Blue Visa
The Blue Visa is a newly introduced 10-year residency visa aimed at individuals who have made valuable contributions to environmental protection, either within the Emirates or globally. Eligible applicants include members of international environmental organizations, global award winners, and distinguished activists or researchers in environmental work. This visa recognizes and supports efforts toward sustainability and environmental action, with detailed requirements and application processes currently being finalized.
Business Visa
The Business Visa is an extension of the Golden Visa program offered for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish or manage a business in Dubai. The visa requires proof of investment of a minimum of 2 million AED in real estate property or financial deposit in the Emirates, amongst its other requirements, as per the GDRFA. It’s a stepping stone for those aiming to qualify for the long-term Golden Visa and offers significant opportunities for business leaders.
Dependent Visa
The Dependent Visa allows UAE residents to sponsor their family members, including spouses, children under 25 years, and unmarried daughters given they live with the family during the tenure of their visa. To qualify, the sponsor must provide proof of kinship and suitable accommodation for their family members. This visa facilitates family reunification and ensures dependents can live legally in Dubai, provided the residency criteria are fulfilled.
Student Visa
A student visa is for international students pursuing college and university education in Dubai. This visa is sponsored by the educational institution in addition to the student’s admission and is valid throughout their study duration.
Tourist Visa
The Tourist Visa is issued for short-term stays, perfect for leisure trips or visiting family and friends. It is valid for durations ranging from 30 to 60 days and is sponsored by tourism establishments in Dubai, after payment of a prescribed fee, i.e. 200 AED for 30 day visa and 300 AED for 60-day visa, as per GDRFA. This visa requires a ticket for the continuance of the journey or an exit ticket from Dubai.
Freelance Visa
The Freelance Visa is a branch of the green visa and caters to those who wish to work independently in Dubai. It requires an attested bachelor’s degree from the applicant and proof of a minimum AED 360,000 annual income, as per GDRFA. This visa is popular among professionals in media, technology, and other specialized fields.
Mission Visa
The Mission Visa (work permit) is designed for short-term work projects or temporary job roles. It is valid for up to 90 days and is typically sponsored by companies for specific assignments or probation periods, ensuring flexibility for both employers and employees. It applies to employees of all skill levels and professions.
What is The Cost of a Mainland Visa in Dubai?
The cost of a Mainland Visa in Dubai is between 300 AED to 3,700 AED, depending on several factors, including the type of visa, the duration of stay, and government fees. The cost of different types of mainland visas, as per GDRFA, is listed below.
| Visa | Cost |
| Golden Visa | 1640 AED |
| Green Visa | 730 AED |
| Virtual Work Visa | AMER centers: 334 AEDOtherwise, 372.5 AED |
| Retirement Visa | 3714.75 AED |
| Tourist/Visit Visa | 300 AED for 60-days400 AED for 90 days |
Mainland visas allow mobility between sectors and no geographical limitations for business operations, making it a valuable investment for businesses and professionals aiming to leverage Dubai as a base for long-term operations and market expansion.
What are The Benefits of a Mainland Visa in Dubai?
The benefits of a Mainland Visa include Tax exemption, Full business ownership, ability to lease premises, broad market access, unlimited employment visas, dependent sponsorships, and long-term residence advantages.
- Tax Exemptions: Mainland jurisdiction allows convenient tax policies for residents and businesses. Residents aren’t required to pay taxes on their salary or wages, while businesses earning less than 375,000 are also exempt from tax. However, for businesses exceeding the threshold, the tax rate is 9%, still lower than in other developed countries, such as the USA (21%), and the UK (25%).
- Full Business Ownership for Certain Activities: foreign investors are allowed to have 100% ownership of Mainland companies for most business activities, excluding industries with strategic impact, as per the Provisions of Federal Decree-Law No. 26 of 2020. This eliminates the need for local sponsors, giving entrepreneurs complete control of their enterprises.
- Ability to Lease Premises Anywhere: A Mainland Visa permits businesses to establish offices in any part of Dubai or the Emirates, offering flexibility and access to prime locations. This unrestricted leasing potential ensures businesses can strategically position themselves to meet their market needs.
- Broad Market Access: Mainland companies are not geographically restricted in terms of their potential customer base. This allows businesses to trade freely and work on government contracts, opening up vast opportunities across public and private sectors.
- Unlimited Employment Visas: Mainland companies can apply for an unlimited number of employment visas, given compliance with office space requirements, offering higher scalability for businesses aiming to grow their workforce.
- Dependents Sponsorship: Holders of Mainland employment and investor visas can sponsor family members, including spouses, and children, as per the Department of Economy and Tourism. It ensures a seamless relocation process, enhancing the quality of expatriate living in Dubai.
- Long-term Residency Advantages: Mainland visa holders enjoy renewable residency permits, given they meet the requirements of the visa renewal, ensuring stability and access to essential services like healthcare and banking facilities. For entrepreneurs, this facilitates sustainable and smooth business operations.
What are The Requirements for a Mainland Visa in Dubai?
The requirements for a mainland visa vary with visa type, but generally, include an Entry permit, Certificate of Health, Emirates ID, Residence Visa stamping/sponsorship undertakings (for dependents), certificate of investment, and health insurance.
- Apply for an Entry Permit: The first step in obtaining a Mainland Visa is to apply for an entry permit through the sponsor company or an accredited business center. This permit is temporary for 60 days but mandatory for entering the UAE to initiate the visa process.
- Medical Test: Applicants must undergo a medical examination that includes blood tests and a chest X-ray. This ensures public health and verifies that the applicant is free from communicable diseases. A Successful medical certificate from Emirates Health Service is mandatory to proceed.
- Register for Emirates ID: All visa applicants must register for an Emirates ID. This official identity card allows residents access to essential services such as banking, transportation, and healthcare in Dubai.
- Residence Visa Stamping: Once all preliminary steps are completed, the final step is to stamp the residency visa in the applicant’s passport. This provides legal proof of residency, allowing individuals to reside in Dubai for the stated duration.
- Employment/Investor Documentation: Applicants must provide valid documents proving their employment or business ownership. For employees, this includes an offer letter and labor contract. Entrepreneurs must submit trade license details and ownership certificates.
- Sponsorship Undertakings: Dependents or family members applying under a Mainland Visa must submit sponsorship-related documents, such as proof of relationship, accommodation contracts, and the sponsor’s Emirates ID.
- Attestation of Educational Certificates: For certain employment roles and professional categories, attested educational documents are required, ensuring they meet the UAE’s standards. This is especially relevant for educational visas and senior-level designations.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance is compulsory in Dubai, and must be provided by the sponsoring company as per the Ministry of Human Resources (MOHRE). Visa applicants must ensure medical coverage from authorized UAE insurers before applying for the residency visa, guaranteeing access to healthcare services when needed.
What are The Required Documents for a Mainland Visa in Dubai?
The required documents for a Mainland visa vary depending on the visa you apply for. For a Green Visa, you will need a personal photo, a passport copy, a permit from MOHRE, and an employment contract. For the golden visa of investors, you will need a copy of the passport, the trade license with the partners’ annex, the financial report of the business for the past year, a certificate with the investor’s financial details, a six-month bank statement, the Federal Tax Authority registration confirming annual transactions over 100,000, and proof of property ownership (if applicable). The requirements will vary depending on the type.
How to Apply for a Mainland Visa in Dubai?
The application process for a Mainland Visa in Dubai involves several steps coordinated by the employer or sponsor. First, the company applies for an entry permit to allow the applicant to enter the UAE and begin the visa process. Once in Dubai, the applicant undergoes a mandatory medical screening to confirm suitability for residency. Following the medical, the applicant registers for an Emirates ID, an essential requirement for accessing UAE services. The final step is the stamping of the residence visa on the applicant’s passport, completing the process. The sponsor arranges all required documentation, including labor contracts or business licenses, as applicable.
How to Check Visa Status in Dubai Mainland?
To check the status of your mainland visa, you can use the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) online portal or the GDRFA Dubai mobile app. Follow these steps:
- Go to the GDRFA website or app.
- Select the “Track Visa Application Status” option.
- Enter your application number or passport details.
- Submit the details to view your visa status.
This service provides real-time information about your visa application’s approval or processing stage.
How Many Days Does It Take to Get a Mainland Visa in Dubai?
The official time for most Visa types is listed as 2 working days, or 48 hours, by GDRFA. However, the actual time can vary depending on your application and can take between 5 to 10 days to complete. The time taken for different Mainland visa types is listed below.
- Golden Visa (Investor): 48 hours
- Green Visa (Employee): 48 hours
- Virtual Work Visa: 48 hours
How long is the Dubai Mainland Visa valid for?
The validity of a Mainland Visa in Dubai typically ranges from 60 days to 10 years, depending on your visa type. The validity of different types of visas is listed below.
| Visa | Validity |
| Golden Visa | 10 years |
| Green Visa | 5 years |
| Virtual Work Visa | 1 year |
| Retirement Visa | 5 years |
| Tourist/Visit Visa | 60-90 days |
Cancellation of Mainland Visa
The process of canceling a Dubai Mainland visa involves submitting a visa cancellation application to the GDRFA with a copy of the sponsor’s passport. The cancellation fee is 70 AED and will take up to 2 working days to complete. You can apply for cancellation through AMER service centers or the GDRFA-Dubai Smart Application.
If you aim to recover the canceled visa, you will have to re-obtain your sponsorship and complete the visa application process again. The requirements vary depending on your visa type. MOHRE also allows employers to cancel the visas of their employees in case of completion of a job contract, termination, resignation, or any physical or mental obstacle, making them unemployable.
If the government cancels a visa due to overstay or legal violations, the individual may face travel bans, fines, or deportation. Staying compliant with UAE laws and visa regulations is essential to avoid this outcome.
What is the Difference between a Mainland Visa and Free Zone Visa?
| Aspect | Mainland | Free Zone |
| Business Jurisdiction | Unrestricted; operate across the UAE and globally | Restricted to designated free zone areas |
| Ownership | Full 100% ownership for certain activities; Strategic industries need local sponsors | 100% foreign ownership allowed |
| Visa Sponsorship | Sponsored by DED-registered companies | Sponsored by free zone authorities |
| Office Location | Can lease offices anywhere in Dubai or UAE | Restricted to free zone jurisdictions |
| Market Access | Can trade within Dubai domestic market, regional government and private sectors freely | Limited to free zone operations or external trade |
| Cost | Generally higher due to larger operational scope | Lower compared to Mainland visas |
While both Mainland and Free Zone visas offer unique advantages, the choice depends on business goals and operational preferences. Mainland visas provide versatility and accessibility for businesses seeking to operate without restrictions across Dubai and Emirates. Each jurisdiction serves a specific role in Dubai’s dynamic economy.
Can I Establish a Company in Dubai with a Dubai Mainland Visa?
Yes, you can establish a company in Dubai with a Dubai Mainland Visa alongside other requirements based on your company’s legal structure. This visa allows individuals to register their businesses under the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), making it possible to operate across the UAE without restrictions.
What are the Disadvantages of a Mainland Visa in Dubai?
The disadvantages of a Mainland visa include higher set-up costs and associated fees, such as trade licenses and office leasing, which impact startups on tight budgets. Some business activities, such as defense, telecommunication, and banking, might still require a local Emirati sponsor.
Moreover, the final approval for a trading license in Dubai mainland requires physical office lease as per the Department of Economy and Tourism, which can be replaced by virtual office space in other jurisdictions. Despite these challenges, the Mainland Visa’s benefits often outweigh the costs for businesses aiming for broader market access.
Do I need a Consultant for a Mainland visa in Dubai?
Yes, a Dubai mainland consultant can help you save time, reduce errors, and ensure compliance with UAE laws. Mainland Visa applications involve multiple steps, including medical testing, Emirates ID registration, and visa stamping, which can be overwhelming for first-timers. Consultants are familiar with government processes and can provide tailored advice, particularly for businesses or individuals with unique visa requirements.
How can I get a Mainland Visa Consultant in Dubai?
You can get a mainland visa consultant by contacting Felix Happich Consultancy. We have over 10 years of experience in helping people with visas, business setups, licensing, company formation, and strategic consulting. We have helped thousands of clients over time, and have achieved 100% customer satisfaction. Contact us today to get started with an expert visa consultancy in Dubai.
