Step-by-step guide to get Free zone Dubai visa

You can apply for either employment or an investor visa—both can be valid for 3 years & allow you to get dependent visas.

(read our guide to getting a UAE Golden Visa)

Step 1: E-channel Services

The first step in applying for a residence visa for Dubai free zone is to register for e-channel services, fill up the necessary (very simple) forms and pay the fee (registration fee & refundable security).

Step 2: Entry Permit

Once the e-channel registration is finished, you will need to apply for the entry permit, which can take up to 15 days to come through & remain valid for 6 months. (note: you can speed up the process by paying an extra AED 1,000 and get the entry permit in 7 days)

Step 3: Status Adjustment

This step is needed to activate your entry permit. You can do it in 3 ways:

• In-country: If you are already within the country, you will need to submit your passport to immigration and they will stamp your passport and activate the entry permit within 3–5 days.
• Out-of-country process: This is for people who are outside of the country, they will need to enter the country and present their visa to immigration at the airport, who would stamp their passport.
• ‘Border-run’: This is a quick method often used by people who are in the country. You can do this by leaving the country and re-entering via land border and getting the passport stamp then.

Step 4: Medical Test

Medical test is used to detect any infectious diseases and comprises x-ray and blood tests. The results should be available in 3 days.

Step 5: Emirates ID registration

Once you receive your medical test, you can apply for your Emirates ID card, which will work as your identification card as a resident of the country. You would need to visit the authorities & give your biometrics to apply for the card.

Step 6: Residence Visa

The last step will be to apply for your residence visa for Dubai free zone. Once you submit your passport, the process can take up to 15 days & you can’t leave the country during this time.

Conclusion: The process of applying for a residence visa is very simple, however, it can be time-consuming, if you need professional help, please feel free to contact our team of experts at info@exillium.com