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Partner visa for business co-shareholders in Dubai
Partner Visa

Partner Visa in Dubai

UAE residency for business partners and co-shareholders of Dubai-registered companies. We manage the complete partner visa process for all shareholders listed on your company.

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A partner visa in Dubai is a UAE residency visa issued to a shareholder or business partner of a UAE-registered company. It operates on the same basis as an investor visa — the company sponsors the visa, and the holder's residency is linked to the company's trade licence validity. The partner visa is the practical mechanism through which multiple shareholders of the same company each obtain their individual UAE residency. The terms 'partner visa' and 'investor visa' are sometimes used interchangeably in the UAE context, reflecting the fact that all business owners and shareholders — whether described as investors, founders, partners, or directors — obtain residency through the same general visa category issued via their company. For the purposes of this page, 'partner visa' refers specifically to the residency visa issued to shareholders who are co-owners of a company alongside other partners, as distinct from a sole owner. This guide covers eligibility, the process, required documents, and the key considerations when processing multiple partner visas within the same company. For longer-term UAE residency planning, consider our Golden Visa service or speak with our team.

Partner Visa Process

1

Eligibility Confirmation

We confirm the shareholder's name appears correctly on the trade licence or MOA, verify the company's available visa quota, and confirm the trade licence is current and in good standing.

2

Entry Permit or Status Change

For shareholders outside the UAE, we apply for an entry permit (mission visa). For those already in the UAE, we process a status change from their current visa to the partner visa category.

3

Medical Fitness Test and Emirates ID

We arrange the medical fitness test at a DHA-approved centre and submit the Emirates ID application with biometric appointment coordination.

4

Health Insurance

We facilitate appropriate UAE-compliant health insurance coverage before finalising the visa application.

5

Residency Visa Stamping

The partner residency visa is stamped in the passport, completing the UAE residency process.

Partner Visa Requirements

  • Valid company trade licence — showing the applicant's name as a shareholder
  • Memorandum of Association or equivalent — confirming shareholding
  • Valid passport — minimum 6 months validity
  • Passport-size photographs (white background, recent)
  • UAE visa copy — if currently in the UAE on any other visa
  • Medical fitness certificate — DHA-approved medical centre
  • Valid health insurance policy meeting UAE requirements

Frequently asked questions

What percentage of ownership do I need for a partner visa?
There is no minimum ownership percentage required for a partner visa in most cases. Any shareholder listed on the company's trade licence or MOA is eligible, regardless of their ownership percentage. This means a minority shareholder with a 10% stake is just as eligible as a majority holder.

Can all co-founders of a startup get partner visas?
Yes, provided the company has sufficient visa quota to accommodate all founders. The visa quota depends on the office size (mainland) or the package tier (free zone). If the current quota is insufficient, upgrading the package or office is necessary before additional visa applications can be processed.

Is a partner visa the same as an investor visa?
Yes, essentially. Both terms describe the same visa category — a UAE residency visa issued to a shareholder of a UAE-registered company. The processing steps, requirements, validity period, and entitlements are identical. See our dedicated investor visa page for full process details.

Can I change my tourist visa to a partner visa without leaving the UAE?
Yes, in most cases. A status change from a visit or tourist visa to a partner residency visa can be processed without leaving the UAE. The process involves the same steps (medical, Emirates ID, insurance) with a status change application rather than an entry permit.

What happens to my partner visa if I sell my shares?
If you transfer your shares and are removed from the company's MOA, your basis for the partner visa is extinguished. The visa should be formally cancelled once the share transfer is complete. If you have another visa basis (another company or employment), that can be activated to maintain residency.

How long is a partner visa valid?
The validity period is typically 2–3 years, the same as an investor visa. It is renewable as long as the company's trade licence is active and your shareholding is maintained.
The information on this website is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional advice. Regulations in the UAE may change. Please contact us or consult a licensed professional for specific advice tailored to your situation.