Introduction
The UAE Golden Visa has transformed the way expatriates live, invest, and grow their careers or businesses in the region. Introduced in 2019, the Golden Visa offers long-term residency options—ranging from five to ten years—to investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, researchers, and students. Among the most practical and increasingly popular pathways to acquiring the Golden Visa is through a Free Zone business license.
Free zones offer 100% business ownership, tax incentives, and streamlined processes. For entrepreneurs and investors aiming to make the UAE their long-term base, combining a free zone setup with the Golden Visa offers both business flexibility and residency security. This article outlines a step-by-step process to help you understand how to obtain the UAE Golden Visa using a free zone business license.
1. Understand What a Free Zone License Is
A free zone license is a legal authorization that allows individuals or companies to operate within a UAE-designated economic area known as a free zone. These zones are tailored for specific industries such as technology, media, finance, logistics, and more. A free zone license typically allows 100% foreign ownership, simplified customs procedures, and access to business infrastructure.
Each free zone has its own regulatory authority and procedures, but the general process to acquire a license is similar.
2. Determine Your Eligibility for the Golden Visa
To obtain a Golden Visa through a free zone business, you must meet one of the following general criteria:
- You are a business owner with a UAE-registered company in a free zone
- You have made an investment of at least AED 2 million
- You have an active business with an annual revenue of AED 1 million or more
- You are a partner or shareholder in a successful business
- You are an executive or specialist earning AED 30,000 per month or more
Eligibility may vary slightly between emirates and free zone authorities, so it is important to confirm the specific conditions with the free zone you register with.
3. Choose the Right Free Zone
There are more than 40 free zones across the UAE, and choosing the right one depends on your industry, business activity, and budget. Some of the most popular ones for Golden Visa applicants include:
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO)
- Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
- Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)
- RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone)
- Fujairah Creative City
When selecting a free zone, consider the following:
- The nature of your business activity
- Proximity to clients or logistic hubs
- Licensing costs and requirements
- Flexibility in issuing No Objection Certificates (NOC) for Golden Visa
4. Register Your Company in the Free Zone
Once you’ve chosen a free zone, you can proceed with registering your business. This process typically involves:
a. Choosing a Legal Structure
Decide on a legal entity type. Common structures include:
- Free Zone Establishment (FZE): For a single shareholder
- Free Zone Company (FZC): For multiple shareholders
b. Selecting a Business Activity
Free zones offer a wide range of business activities. Ensure your chosen activity is allowed under the free zone’s regulations and aligns with your future Golden Visa application.
c. Reserving Your Company Name
Submit at least three preferred names for approval. Avoid names that are religious, political, or offensive.
d. Submitting Documents
You will need to provide:
- Passport copies of shareholders and managers
- Passport-sized photographs
- Business plan (in some zones)
- Proof of address
- Professional qualifications (if required)
e. Paying Fees
Pay the applicable registration and licensing fees. This may include:
- Trade license fee
- Registration fee
- Office lease or flexi-desk rental
f. Receiving Your License
Once the documents are approved and payment is made, you will receive:
- Your trade license
- Certificate of incorporation
- Lease agreement
- Share certificates
This license is valid for one year and is renewable annually.
5. Apply for UAE Residency Visa (Initial)
Once your business is registered and you have a valid trade license, the next step is to apply for a residency visa as the owner or investor.
a. Entry Permit
An entry permit (valid for 60 days) will be issued by the relevant free zone immigration authority.
b. Medical Test and Emirates ID
You will undergo a standard medical fitness test and apply for an Emirates ID. Once these are complete, your residency visa will be stamped in your passport.
This standard residency visa is typically valid for two years and serves as a bridge to apply for the 10-year Golden Visa.
6. Prepare for the Golden Visa Application
To transition from a standard investor visa to the 10-year Golden Visa, you must prepare a complete set of documents and meet the outlined financial and business criteria.
Common Requirements for Business Owners
- Proof of investment worth AED 2 million or more (can include the value of shares in the company)
- A valid trade license in a UAE free zone
- An audited financial statement showing the business’s performance
- No objection certificate (NOC) from the free zone authority
- Proof of revenue of AED 1 million or more (in certain cases)
- Bank statements for the last six months
- Tax return documents (if applicable)
- UAE health insurance
The documentation may differ slightly between emirates such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
7. Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Free Zone
This is a critical step for Golden Visa applicants who are operating under a free zone license. Some free zones require business owners to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) stating that the business is in good standing and has no legal or financial liabilities.
To request an NOC:
- Write a formal letter of request to the free zone authority
- Provide the company trade license and Emirates ID
- Submit any additional documents requested, such as audited financials
Some free zones issue the NOC within a few working days, while others may take up to two weeks.
8. Submit Your Application to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP)
Once you have all documents, you can apply for the Golden Visa through:
- The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP)
- The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for Dubai residents
Application can be done through:
- The ICP/GDRFA official website
- Amer or Tasheel service centers
- Government-approved typing centers
- In some cases, through the free zone authority itself
Attach all documents, including your NOC, financial statements, trade license, and Emirates ID.
9. Golden Visa Review Process and Approval
After submitting your application, it will undergo a thorough review. Key considerations include:
- Validation of investment or business ownership
- Financial compliance
- Criminal record check
- Business sustainability
If the application is approved:
- You will receive an official Golden Visa approval email or SMS
- You may be asked to cancel your existing residency visa (if any)
- A new 10-year Golden Visa will be issued and stamped in your passport
In case of rejection, authorities may provide feedback or allow reapplication with additional documentation.
10. Family Sponsorship Under the Golden Visa
Once your 10-year Golden Visa is issued, you can sponsor your family under the same long-term residency program. This includes:
- Spouse
- Children (usually up to 25 years old)
- Domestic workers or housekeepers (as per UAE regulations)
Sponsorship requirements include:
- Proof of relationship (marriage and birth certificates)
- Valid Emirates ID
- Financial ability to support dependents
- Medical insurance for each family member
Family members receive visas that are linked to the primary Golden Visa holder’s validity.
11. Post-Approval Steps
After receiving the Golden Visa, make sure to:
- Update your Emirates ID with the new visa information
- Notify your free zone authority and bank of your new visa
- Renew your business license annually to maintain eligibility
- Maintain proper accounting and compliance for future visa renewals
12. Key Benefits of Golden Visa with a Free Zone License
- 10-year renewable residency
- 100% business ownership
- No local sponsor required
- Ability to sponsor family and domestic workers
- Long-term planning for business and life in the UAE
- Ease of travel and visa processing
- Access to financial and government services as a long-term resident
Conclusion
Combining a UAE Golden Visa with a free zone license provides a powerful advantage for entrepreneurs and investors looking to grow their presence in the region. The process, while meticulous, is structured and achievable with proper planning, documentation, and compliance. From selecting the right free zone to submitting a complete visa application, each step plays a crucial role in securing your long-term residency in the UAE.
Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a first-time entrepreneur, the UAE’s free zone ecosystem, coupled with the Golden Visa program, offers one of the most attractive packages for foreign nationals in the world.