If you intend to have your own business in the UAE, you will need a trade license and a valid visa. Also, it allows you to open both local and foreign corporate bank accounts.
For those who are already working in UAE, canceling an existing employment visa and applying for a new business visa can be a time-consuming task.
However, if you know the process in detail, it gets a tad bit easier. In this blog, we discuss how to convert your UAE employment visa to a business visa.
Employment Visa vs. Business Visa In UAE: What's the difference?
While both employment and business visas allow foreign nationals to engage in business activity in a foreign country, their purposes are different.
A business visa allows you and your dependents to get a long-term visa. It aims to attract entrepreneurs to invest in businesses in UAE.
Employment visas allow you to do a job under an employer either on the mainland or in the free zone.
Here is how you can change your employment visa to a business visa
1. Cancellation of current employment visa
The UAE requires that your employer cancel your visa when you terminate your employment. You are allowed to stay in the country for 29 days if the visa is still valid at the time of cancellation. This will buy you time to either get a new visa or update your existing visa.
What to do next:
- Contact a registered typing center or free zone authority to process your visa cancellation
- Pay any fines if any to ensure there is no delay in processing
2. Get a New Entry Permit
Once the existing employment visa is cancelled, you can apply for a New Entry Permit. This permit is valid for 60 calendar days and is essentially a temporary employment visa.
3. Status Change Process
‘Status Adjustment' or ‘Status Change' is a mandatory process and is nothing but the procedure of activating the entry permit. If you have overstayed your visa, you will likely keep incurring a fine unless you complete the status change process.
Visa status change is done in the following three ways -
- In-Country Status change:
- Out of Country Status Adjustment:
- Border Run:
Remember that activating a visa entry permit bars travelers from leaving the UAE until their visas have been stamped.
4. Obtain an Emirates ID card and Perform Medical Examination
As a resident of the United Arab Emirates, your Emirates ID card is the document you need for any job that requires presenting an identification card. You can apply online for an Emirates ID. As a part of the process, you have to visit an ID service center and give your biometrics as well. You will also have to get a medical examination done to complete the process.
5. Stamp your Residence Visa
Your residence visa stamp is your final confirmation that you are eligible to work and live in the UAE.Once the previous steps are completed, the formality is done. Your passport will have a UAE residency visa stamp.
It typically takes 01 month for your visa application process to be completed.
Please note that if you are out of the country for more than 180 days, your visa may be invalidated. In order to maintain your resident status, you have to visit UAE every six months.
Conclusion
Converting your UAE employment visa to a business visa is a structured process that requires careful planning and timely execution. From cancelling your existing visa to completing documentation, medical tests, and visa stamping, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition. While the process may seem complex, proper guidance and preparation can make it straightforward and hassle-free. With the right support, you can successfully move from employment to entrepreneurship and start your business journey in the UAE with confidence.
If you need help at any stage, please feel free to get in touch with us.
FAQs
1. Can I transfer my employment visa to a business visa in the UAE?
Yes, you can transfer your employment visa to a business visa by cancelling your current visa and applying for a new business or investor visa.
2. Do I need to leave the UAE for visa conversion?
Not necessarily. You can complete the process through an in-country status change, but in some cases, a border run or exit may be required.
3. How long does it take to convert an employment visa to a business visa?
The process usually takes around 2 to 4 weeks, depending on documentation, approvals, and the type of business setup.
4. What is the grace period after employment visa cancellation?
You typically get a grace period (around 30 days) after cancellation to either exit the country or apply for a new visa.
5. Can I start a business immediately after visa cancellation?
You can begin the business setup process immediately, but you must complete visa formalities and obtain the required license to operate legally.
