A Free zone visa in the UAE allows individuals to live and work within designated free zones, which are special economic areas offering tax benefits, streamlined regulations, and 100% foreign ownership. These visas are tied to companies operating within specific free zones and are crucial for those establishing businesses or working for companies in these areas.
- Residence and Work Permit:
A free zone visa is a residency permit that allows foreign nationals to live and work legally within a specific UAE free zone.
- Benefits:
These visas offer significant advantages such as tax exemptions, 100% foreign ownership, streamlined business setup processes, and access to financial services within the free zone.
- Specific to Free Zones:
Free zone visas are tied to a specific free zone authority and the business established within that zone, meaning they are not valid for working in the mainland UAE.
- Different Types:
There are different types of free zone visas, such as employment visas for employees, investor visas for company owners, and freelance visas for self-employed individuals.
- Eligibility:
Individuals must typically be employed by or own a company registered within a free zone to be eligible for a free zone visa.
- Sponsorship:
Free zone companies sponsor the visas for their employees, and visa holders may also be able to sponsor family members.
- Renewal:
Free zone visas are typically valid for one, two, or three years and can be renewed.
- Emirates ID:
A medical test and an Emirates ID application are usually required as part of the process.
- Not Mainland Visas:
Free zone visas are distinct from mainland visas and do not allow individuals to work outside the specific free zone.