Obtaining a residence permit in the UAE through opening an onshore company - Service

For many, emigrating to the UAE seems like an excellent opportunity to start a new stage in life and enjoy comfort. But behind the luxury and carelessness lies a harsh reality. After all, moving to the Emirates is not so easy. Emigration to the UAE is a difficult and thorny path.

World-class resorts like Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi attract tourists of all ages; the standard of living in the United Arab Emirates is also one of the highest in the world. Therefore, upon returning home, many begin to dream of moving. But the Emirati authorities are prudent, so the legislative framework is strict in relation to immigrants. There is not a single loophole to get around its rules.

Main stages of immigration for Russians

Immigration to the Emirates is multi-stage. Each of its stages should be considered in more detail.

Obtaining an entry permit

Since February 2021, the United Arab Emirates has established new rules for crossing the border for citizens of the Russian Federation. Russians still need a visa to come to this country, but it can now be obtained not only at the diplomatic mission of the Emirates in Russia, but also directly at the border. But in this case we are talking only about a tourist visa, which allows you to stay in this Muslim country for 30 days. The visa can be extended for the same period, but only once. Both obtaining and extending a tourist visa are free for Russians. Using it, for example, you can enroll in a local university or find a job. But the remaining visas, which should form the basis for requesting a residence permit, will need to be obtained from the diplomatic missions of the Emirates in Russia, information about which can be found here. The second option is to arrive on a tourist visa and apply to the immigration service for a different type of visa.

Obtaining an Emirates visa is the first step towards immigration

Obtaining a residence permit

To obtain a residence permit, you should contact the United Arab Emirates Immigration Office. You must provide a valid visa, the basis for requesting resident status, and a package of documents required by the immigration laws of that country. A residence permit can be requested after six months of stay under the appropriate type of visa. The status is issued for a period of three years. If during this period a foreign citizen leaves the territory of the United Arab Emirates for a period of six months, then the status will be lost. The six-month period is not calculated as the total period of absence of a resident in the Emirates, but only for a one-time trip outside the country for more than six months.

permanent residence

Permanent residence in the United Arab Emirates can be obtained after three years of staying in this country as a temporary resident. But obtaining permanent residence is much more difficult. In this case, it will be necessary to confirm the availability of sufficient means for subsistence, which are of legal origin. In addition, you will need to pass an integration test. The last procedure is quite complex, so thorough preparation is required. Permanent resident status provides many benefits for its holder, but its rights are far from those of a UAE citizen. Permanent residence is issued for a period of ten years and can be extended countless times.

Citizenship

As already mentioned, only foreign spouses of citizens of this country have a real opportunity to obtain citizenship of the United Arab Emirates. In some cases, it may be granted for special merit by decision of the monarch of any of the emirates. It is possible to obtain a passport of the United Arab Emirates after 30 years of permanent residence on its territory. But only a few can comply with such a residency requirement. Citizens of neighboring Arab countries (Bahrain, Qatar and Oman) have a residency requirement of only three years, after which they can obtain Emirati citizenship. But at the same time, it is necessary that the applicant was born on the territory of a neighboring state, and did not receive its citizenship through the naturalization process.

The vast majority of Russians who live in the United Arab Emirates do not have citizenship of this country.

Emigration methods

There are several options for emigration to the United Arab Emirates:

• Marriage;
• Investment in the economy;
• Studies;
• Job:
• Buying a property.

Neither type of immigration guarantees citizenship, but it does allow you to obtain a residence permit in the UAE. Only a select few become full-fledged residents of the Emirates, and there are only a few of them.

Marriage

The Koran does not prohibit a Muslim from marrying a woman of a different faith. But only very rich Arabs who are able to fully support their wife and family marry foreign women. This is explained by the fact that in this case the state takes away many privileges.

Young couples, where both spouses are Emirati, after marriage are given the choice of a plot of land or a house with an interest-free loan, as well as an acceptable loan. It should also be noted that marriage does not guarantee a woman obtaining citizenship in the UAE, as in other countries.

In case of divorce, the court grants custody of the children to the spouse.

It is impossible to take them out of the country without his permission. Therefore, after the dissolution of the union, the woman is forced to continue to live in the Emirates in order to periodically see her children. The likelihood of such a situation and absolute dependence on the husband do not particularly attract foreign women. Therefore, they are in no hurry to marry an Emirati for the purpose of emigration.

Doing Business

One of the most acceptable options to live legally in the Emirates is to open your own company or invest in an existing one. The opportunity to do business in the country attracts many successful entrepreneurs from other countries.

Reasons for refusal and what to do in this case

The reasons for denial of the status of a resident of the United Arab Emirates can be different, we will give only the main ones:

• the applicant has repeatedly violated the country's immigration laws;
• the applicant cannot demonstrate a sufficient level of financial support;
• criminal history, suspicion of connections with the criminal world;
• permanent residence will be denied to those who could not pass the integration test;
• divorce before status is requested;
• fake documents;
• lack of documents.

You can appeal the refusal by submitting an appeal letter to the immigration service within 10 days from the date of its receipt. The period for consideration of the appeal should not exceed two weeks. If in this case the decision of the immigration authorities is negative, then the applicant has no choice but to appeal to the court of first instance. If the decision is negative, then an application should be made to the Court of Appeal and so on.

Denial of resident status can be appealed in court

goodubai

One fine day (or maybe the most terrible day) I moved to live in Moscow.

All comfortable conditions have been created for this - even public transport stops are equipped with air conditioning. Arabs are quick-tempered people, but still friendly. Here it is customary to help each other. Even if a person is in a hurry, he will not leave a passerby in trouble.

It somehow happened quickly and spontaneously.

My brother called, he called, so I went.

I just bought a ticket and went. I didn’t like Moscow and still continue to dislike it. I began to think about an escape plan after five months of living in Moscow.

These were European countries and of course the USA. But dreams are dreams are dreams. The costs of obtaining a visa are high and it is not a fact that you will quickly find a job there.

Then winter came in Moscow and I realized that I had to flee to the south! By elimination, I was left with three countries: Egypt, Türkiye and the UAE.

After analyzing the economic situation in the country using Google, I definitely decided to go to Dubai (it has the lowest unemployment rate).

I read about how and where to apply for a visa.

There are a million tips and ways to leave the country, but I didn’t dare. There was no magic kick! And here he is!

I was tired of work, everything was annoying, cold, snow, slush, dirt, and I came to the dorm where I rented a place.

What to see in Dubai on your own

You can visit almost all the sights in Dubai on your own - arrange a tour for yourself. You should only look for a guide in those places where you cannot go on your own, for example, on a safari.

Here's what you can see in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa;
• Jumeirah Mosque;
• aquarium;
• underwater and regular zoos;
• Wild Wadi water park;
• singing-dancing fountains;
• Dubai Creek;
• Old city;
• markets (gold, fish, spices);
• Ski Dubai;
• dolphinarium;
• Dubai Marina and Dubai Lake Towers areas;
• Legoland, etc.

Useful selection:

• Water parks in Dubai
• What to see in Dubai

Education

Education for foreigners in the Emirates is paid. The schools here are different, it all depends on interests and financial capabilities. You can find an institution with a religious bias or give preference to a regular program.

If you need to transfer your child from one school to another, you will have to wait until the end of the school year. In this case, the student will have to pass an exam in mathematics, Arabic and English.

The United Arab Emirates attracts the attention of many tourists. But is it worth going there for permanent residence, you should think carefully

Not everyone can withstand a hot climate. In addition, you will have to work hard to ensure a decent standard of living.

Standard of living in the United Arab Emirates

Life in the United Arab Emirates is famous throughout the world. The indigenous population of this country is swimming in petrodollars. It seems that luxury and carefree are everywhere. But this impression is superficial. After moving to the Emirates, you sometimes have to take off your rose-colored glasses. All the riches of this fabulous country are available only to its citizens, while the vast majority of immigrants are often relegated to the role of cheap labor, unless, of course, we are talking about highly qualified specialists who are paid very well.

The UAE is a federal state consisting of seven emirates. Each of them is an absolute monarchy. Al-Imarat al-Arabiya al-Muttahida - this is exactly what the name of the country sounds like in Arabic. This oasis of luxury and fabulous wealth suddenly arose in Arabia through the unification of seven emirates, which actually ended in 1972. After the discovery of colossal oil and gas reserves in the 50s of the last century, their active production began. The turning point was the sharp rise in oil prices in 1973, after which the country began to show the highest rates of economic development. Oil reserves in the Emirates are estimated at 98 billion barrels (for comparison, in the Russian Federation - only 80 billion). Today, the UAE ranks seventh among countries in the world in terms of GDP per capita ($69,896 in 2021).

Oil production accounts for 67% of UAE GDP

The reason for such a high standard of living for the indigenous people was the active development of energy reserves and their export with a relatively small population of 9,269,612 people (according to the 2021 census). Therefore, every resident of the country has the highest level of income. The policy of the UAE authorities is aimed at the economic development of their state and creating the most comfortable living conditions for their fellow citizens, which includes the highest level of social protection, strict immigration policy and effective methods of managing their own economy.

Today no one knows exactly how many Russians live in the country. Experts estimate their number at approximately 250 thousand people. It should be said that almost all of them are in the country legally and have a certain immigration status. Obtaining citizenship of the United Arab Emirates is extremely difficult. It can be said that becoming a UAE citizen is almost impossible. But even in terms of immigration status, foreigners in the United Arab Emirates live quite well.

Options for offered real estate

Paramount Tower

The project was completed in 2021, one of the most beautiful buildings in Dubai. The project consists of luxury serviced apartments and a hotel, with restaurants, spas, clothing boutiques, and its own park! Walking distance to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. Installment plan for 5 years with a guaranteed return of 10% per annum.

Residential apartments: Aykon city

The project is located in the Business Bay area. At the moment, construction is underway, the project will be delivered in the 4th quarter of 2021. Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, the DIFC area (Dubai International Financial Center) where the offices of the world's largest corporations are concentrated. Cost from $230,000, installments for 3 years.

Villas from the global brand Cavalli: Just Cavalli (Acoya)

Villas in a very rapidly developing part of Dubai, the project is located in the Akoya area which will be the most green in Dubai. The minimum area of ​​the villas is 200 meters. Exclusive design from Roberto Cavalli. The project is already under construction, delivery in the 4th quarter of 2021. Installment plan for 3 years. Cost from $350,000.

If you are interested in a residence permit in the UAE, contact your Premier BCS financial advisor to organize a consultation with partners of BCS Company LLC*

*Non-financial services are provided with the involvement of partner companies, whose agent is BKS Company LLC. Services are provided under separate contractual relationships with the relevant legal entities.

Where can immigrants from Russia work?

The high economic level of the state opens up wide opportunities and acts as a solid platform for conducting all kinds of business. Russian emigrants who have decent, solid capital can find many directions in the country for self-realization. Moving all family members to the UAE is also not a big problem.

Graduates of higher education institutions can find work in the United Arab Emirates; experience is welcome. The most popular vacancies: programmers, teachers, engineers,

translators, oil workers. Knowledge of English or Arabic will certainly be a significant advantage.

Dubai is a huge business center. Numerous skyscrapers, which house a large number of different companies and firms, are incredibly chic and stunning. In the country, the local population tries to adhere to strictness in everything, from the choice of clothing to the spoken language.

Leadership positions and positions go in most cases to the indigenous population of the UAE. Foreign citizens, as a rule, occupy vacancies lower in rank. Employers place strict demands on their workers, regardless of citizenship. It is very, very difficult to get a prestigious job in the United Arab Emirates. The wages of waiters, bartenders, and maids are relatively high, but nevertheless it is too hard and exhausting work.

Those planning to move to the UAE should think carefully and weigh both the positive and negative aspects. Having a higher education, knowledge of English, a successful marriage - all these factors will have a beneficial effect when moving for permanent residence. However, you should know that you can live in the Emirates for quite a long period of time without receiving the coveted citizenship.

Life in Dubai

After retirement, even those who were born in the UAE in the family of a foreign worker and lived here all their lives return to their homeland. Citizenship is the prerogative of native Emirates. To come to the UAE, I needed a temporary work visa.

All she needs is a copy of her passport, a certified copy of her diploma, a signed contract and health insurance - this is provided by her employer. The company also paid for my ticket to Dubai - this is a standard condition for employment in the Emirates. When I arrived in Dubai, I had to obtain a resident visa.

This process usually takes about a month. The original diploma and contract with the employer are sent to the immigration service. At the same time, you need to undergo a medical examination: donate blood for hepatitis and HIV, do fluorography.

Women must take a pregnancy test. If the test is positive and the woman is not married, she will not be given a visa.

UAE visa

Russians do not need to apply for a visa to the UAE in advance if the duration of the trip does not exceed a month. You will receive it free of charge upon arrival for 30 days. It can be extended for another 30 days, but for a fee. We received a visa at Abu Dhabi airport - the procedure takes a few minutes.

If you are going to Dubai for a long time, apply for a tourist visa in advance - you can do this yourself at visa centers or consulates.

About children, friendship and extra kilos

Children are very loved and pampered here. I was lucky enough to work for a short period of time in a kindergarten with local kids. I was very surprised. Children are incredibly spoiled and capricious, and it is not so easy to cope with them.

Traditionally, local Arabs have large families. 2-3 children is not enough for them. At least 4-5 children try.

There are a lot of fat people in the UAE. Here in Russia you gain 3-4 kg and already start worrying about losing weight and going on diets. There's nothing like it there. They seem to be struggling with this problem, but everyone is very relaxed. Most locals often eat fast food. What shocked me was that I saw a young Arab woman feeding her almost infant daughter French fries from McDonald’s.

As a rule, local Arabs are a closed society. If you don’t intersect with them at work, if you’re not part of the family, you won’t get to know them. Although they are friendly to foreigners, making friends with them is not easy.

Anastasia with her friend from Morocco (friend in traditional clothes)

I came into contact with visiting Arabs much more often. While working, I had close contact with a girl from Morocco. We lived in the same room. She wore an abaya (note: a type of traditional clothing), but not all the time. In the holy book of Muslims, the Koran, there is no strict instruction that a woman must choose a burqa and be covered. This is a personal matter for every Muslim believer.

Advantages and disadvantages

Those who intend to move to the United Arab Emirates need to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages of the state in advance.

Positive points include:

1. Excellent weather conditions and wonderful climate. Russian businessmen can stay in their home region for at least three months throughout the year. The remaining months can be spent on personal business in Dubai.

2. High level of security. There is practically no crime in the state. Local laws include harsh penalties even for petty hooliganism; we don’t even have to talk about more serious crimes. Murder and theft are very rare cases.

3. High economic level. A developed economy is visible almost everywhere: from well-maintained streets, cleanliness and order in the city to customer service. The United Arab Emirates is one of those countries where the economic level is growing every year due to its large reserves of natural resources, as well as its political system.

4. Excellent educational institutions. The country has an excellent educational program, from preschool to higher education. Those who are unable to go to university can take English language courses in Dubai. In this case, the likelihood of future employment will only increase.

5. No taxes. The country does not levy income tax.

Negative factors include the following:

1. The likelihood of obtaining citizenship in the UAE is too low.

2. Quite expensive medicine for migrants in the absence of an insurance policy.

3. The Emirates is a Muslim state, local laws and traditions may not be to everyone’s taste.

4. Sometimes discrimination towards the fair half of humanity can take its toll.

How to leave for the UAE and live forever

Obtaining UAE citizenship is very difficult. Full naturalization requires residence in the country for 30 years. Many remain in the Emirates for decades on a temporary resident visa and periodically renew it with the migration department.

About Arab men

All Arabs are different. Many came to the UAE from Egypt, Morocco, Syria and other eastern countries. Each state has its own mentality, which they “take” with them.

Whether a Russian girl should start a relationship with an Arab is a complex question. There are both democratic and conservative men in the Emirates. Marriages and divorces happen. A definite positive moment for girls - on a date, an Arab will always pay for his companion. And, of course, there will be gifts.

There are happy marriages between Russian girls and Arabs, but there are also unhappy ones. It depends. Of course, if the marriage doesn’t work out, the big problem is getting a divorce.

If a child was born in the UAE, in case of divorce he legally remains with his father. On this topic, I heard advice from my compatriots: under any pretext, go to give birth in Russia.

Life of Russians in the United Arab Emirates

About 250 thousand Russian immigrants live in the UAE. This is quite a high figure. To be fair, it should be said that Russians here include Ukrainians, Belarusians, Moldovans, and other immigrants from the USSR.

The country has almost all services and infrastructure for the Russian-speaking population: Russian schools, kindergartens, restaurants, various printed publications, radio, the Russian Orthodox Church, shops with Russian goods, etc. In public places you can often hear Russian spoken.

However, at first there will be many challenges for the Russian mentality. All immigrants from the Russian Federation note the strictness of local laws. Here you can be fined for obscene language, kissing in public places, rudeness and rudeness.

In case of a fight, jail time is guaranteed. Foreigners who violate these rules may even be deported.

Probably thanks to such laws, everyone on the street is equally polite to each other.

Pros and cons of emigrating to the UAE

That is why the UAE is in demand among emigrants who, under any pretext, are ready to come, begin to develop and obtain a residence permit. The most interesting thing is that to obtain a residence permit, almost no one tests knowledge of English and Arabic, but the emirates can arrange a short exam for knowledge of local culture.

Another interesting factor of the UAE is the inability to obtain citizenship

No matter how long an emigrant has lived in the country, how long he has worked, or how large his family is, he will remain a guest forever. He can live in the country as long as he wants, the main thing is that he does not forget to constantly renew his visa

Therefore, based on the above, emigration to the UAE, like to any other country, has its pros and cons.

Pros:

• Visa holders are not required to pay taxes, which is very rare compared to other countries.
• Easy to obtain a resident visa.
• High-quality and affordable medicine.
• Respectful attitude towards Russians.
• Wide selection of entertainment (beaches, restaurants, attractions and much more).
• Creating your own company (opening a personal business) is not hindered or limited by anything. This will require an estimated amount of $5,000 - $8,000, depending on its size and scope of activity.
• You can get a residence permit for the whole family at once, regardless of the number of people. It is issued especially quickly for families of entrepreneurs and long-term property owners.
• You can easily get a job with a high salary.
• Movement throughout the Gulf countries is not hindered by anything or anyone - completely free.
• Possibility to open a personal bank account. Financial organizations in the UAE are no different from European ones in terms of the quality of services provided, plus they are considered the most reliable and safe.
• Lack of crime and corruption.
• Beautiful architecture that cannot be compared with anything else.
• Summer all year round. Air conditioning is installed even on the streets for residents.
• The opportunity to receive a quality education (rare, but there are cases when training is conducted in Russian).
• Opportunity for official employment with high salaries.

Minuses:

• It is almost impossible to become a full UAE citizen.
• Public transport is poorly developed almost everywhere.
• Heat all year round, which causes discomfort and is difficult for many to bear.
• In many cities there are constant traffic jams on the roads.
• The specific driving style of many drivers.
• Lack of a standard postal system.
• Lack of natural attractions (no trees or grass, except those artificially grown).
• Prices for many categories of goods are very high.
• In many cases, people have to work seven days a week.
• Local residents do not care about the environment.
• Long queues to see professional doctors.
• Too few educational institutions.

Features of moving children and pensioners

Residence permits for minors are obtained simultaneously with their parents. They jointly submit a petition for this. If one of them is missing, then the second must provide a reasoned explanation for its absence. If the child’s parents are divorced, then it is impossible to travel outside the homeland, much less obtain the status of a temporary citizen of another state, without the consent of the absent parent. An official power of attorney will be required, in which the absent father or mother consents to these actions. Forging a power of attorney is fraught with very serious legal consequences.

The legislation of the United Arab Emirates does not provide for any separate programs for the immigration of foreign pensioners. They can purchase real estate on a general basis and obtain a residence permit.

Myths and stereotypes: about sheikhs and women in burqas

For some reason, there is a stereotype that in the United Arab Emirates everyone is sheikhs and the rich are rich. Actually this is not true.

The local population - the so-called locals - is from 2 to 3 percent. Among them there are very wealthy closed clan families with whom it is impossible to make friends in any way if you are not in their “caste”.

But there are also quite open Europeanized people. And not all of them are rich. There are those who live from paycheck to paycheck and have accumulated a lot of loans.

Yes, indeed, the government supports the locals in every possible way. The salary of native Arabs in any position is 5-7 times higher than that of visitors. But they are terrible spenders: they can spend all their money on a girl or on buying a car for crazy money. In the Emirates you will always find where to spend.

There are people who are not rich. True, you will never meet a poor or needy local there.

There is also a myth that wives in the UAE do nothing, sit at home and obey their husbands. This is also not true. Women in the Emirates can do whatever they want - study and work if they so choose.

The myth about downtrodden Eastern women is just a myth

By the way, a modern “trick” has appeared that shatters all ideas about Arab women. Some young unmarried girls go to neighboring countries, take off their abaya (a type of traditional clothing), party in clubs, return home and put on traditional clothing again. If something happened to a man, they turn to doctors (note: to restore “chastity”) and get married safely.

Contrary to popular belief, in the United Arab Emirates, as a rule, the wife is the head of the family. She makes important decisions.

Women are protected from a financial point of view. In the event of, for example, a divorce, a man is obliged to support his ex-wife until the end of her days if she does not enter into a subsequent marriage.

Benefits of immigration to the UAE

Life in the United Arab Emirates is radically different from life in Russia. Russian immigrants can appreciate all the benefits of staying in this country. The main advantages of immigration to the UAE are:

• comfortable climate. It's summer all year round in the Emirates. The heat of the Arabian desert is compensated by air conditioning, which is available at almost every step. Even bus stops are equipped with air conditioning. Statistics show that there are three times more air conditioners in the country than there are residents;
• in the United Arab Emirates you can receive the highest level of income if you have sufficient qualifications. Here wages are considered one of the highest in the world;
• loyal tax legislation. The population of the United Arab Emirates practically does not pay any taxes or duties, but at the same time the state budget is filled to the brim. The treasury is replenished by the efficient operation of the state economy. The United Arab Emirates will become a paradise for investors who prefer offshore companies;
• the right to legal employment;
• an immigrant has the right to bring members of his family with him;
• obtaining education in higher educational institutions of the United Arab Emirates. It is considered to be of high quality, and diplomas from local universities are recognized throughout the world and, accordingly, do not require nostrification. In addition, there is the opportunity to study practically for free;
• immigrants have the right to register their own companies and conduct business in the country;
• the state takes maximum care not only of its fellow citizens, but also of all foreigners legally residing in the country;
• in the Emirates you can purchase real estate and visit it freely;
• There is an almost complete absence of crime in the country and the highest level of personal safety. The Emirates has strict laws and the death penalty is applied. At every step a person is monitored by video cameras. Therefore, you can throw garbage past the trash can and receive a fine of about $400. In case of malicious violation of administrative and immigration laws, foreigners face deportation with a ban on entry into the country for life.

What attracts the UAE

In recent years, the UAE has become increasingly popular as a tourist country, but many people are not just planning a vacation, but are also seriously thinking about obtaining a residence permit or even moving to the UAE for permanent residence. Interestingly, almost 80% of the Emirates' population are not citizens of the country. Nevertheless, traditions and cultural heritage occupy an important place in the life of a nation. Some emirates even introduce an exam on knowledge of local culture for foreigners applying for residency.

It is worth moving to the United Arab Emirates for several reasons:

• Lack of crime and, accordingly, a high level of security. Strict police officers monitor compliance with the legal framework. In the Emirates, throwing garbage outside the trash can results in a heavy fine, and for more serious crimes - deportation and, sometimes, the death penalty.
• Corruption is completely absent;
• The state cares about the population from the first to the last minute of life. The social sphere is constantly subject to reforms to create comfortable living in the country for both indigenous residents and foreigners;
• Climate. Many people dream of living in summer all year round. The Emirates is the ideal place for this.
• Income. The Emirates has one of the highest wages in the world.

What attracts the United Arab Emirates

The country in its present state has several important advantages.

1. There is a very high standard of living here and there are practically no poor people.
2. The UAE government is pursuing a policy to attract foreigners by promoting job openings and easing visa requirements.
3. The Emirates authorities have practically abolished income tax, so it is profitable to work for hire and open a business here.
4. Entering the UAE is attractive due to its wide career prospects.

Today, the Arab state is one of the centers of international trade. Branches of Western corporations and the best enterprises of Southeast Asia are represented here; Russian capital is actively penetrating the local market.

Benefits of resident status

First of all, this is another step towards citizenship. But for most migrants it becomes the last, since it is extremely difficult to obtain a passport of a UAE citizen. However, a resident can live and work in the country on almost the same terms. You just have to update your status with the migration department every 3 years. The main advantages of having a resident visa are the right to:

• work in the country;
• rent housing;
• open accounts in local banks;
• transport relatives to the country;
• teach children at school;
• enter university;
• apply for a driver's license;
• receive a number of tax preferences.

Features of entry into the state for minors

The decisive factor when obtaining a visa for a child will be which document will confirm the identity of the minor. If the border is crossed on the basis of a passport document, a UAE visa will be issued on the condition that the parents and children have the same surname. In this case, the visa cost will be the same for both children and adults. If the last names do not match, you must present a birth certificate, as well as other documents that indicate the family ties of the child and the accompanying person.

When children cross the border of a state using their parent’s passport, different surnames will not be an obstacle. However, when applying for a visa, you must indicate in which specific passport the child is included; upon reaching the age of five, a photograph must be pasted into the document.

In the event that a minor child travels to the United Arab Emirates alone, unaccompanied by adults, he must have with him a certified document indicating that both parents give permission to enter. The document is certified by a notary office and is also duplicated in English.

You should be prepared for the fact that UAE immigration authorities sometimes require all documents and entry permits from citizens under 21 years of age.

How to move from Russia to the Emirates

Stamp in your passport upon entry
In order to legally enter the country, you need to acquire official status. A foreign resident can apply for one of the existing visas: work, study, tourist, guest. The visa is selected depending on the purpose of the trip.

The UAE legislation states that you can stay in the emirates on a tourist and guest visa for no longer than 29 days, and on a business visa - up to 2 weeks. A multiple-entry visa can be issued for six months. It allows its owner to enter the country several times, staying no more than 2 weeks per trip.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to stay in the UAE?

Yes, every foreign citizen arriving in the UAE must have a visa: tourist, guest, work or study.

It is worth keeping in mind that the UAE has different visa rules for each country. This is influenced by the nationality of the foreigner and the local politics of a particular emirate.

For Russians, the visa procedure is slightly simplified. To stay in the country for up to a month, you can obtain a visa upon arrival at one of the UAE airports. The procedure is free of charge. If necessary, you can request a visa extension for an additional fee for another 1 month. To do this, you need to come to the immigration department of the United Arab Emirates.

Visiting the UAE by minors

Visiting the UAE by minors
Question to an expert

I am flying to the UAE with a young child. Do I need to apply for a visa for him?

Yes, a visa is issued for each visitor. If the child has the same last name as the parents and has a foreign passport, then the visa process is similar to obtaining a visa for an adult. When the last name is different, the parents must provide documents that confirm their relationship with the child.

The visa process for minors will depend on the child's identification document. If he flies to the UAE on a passport, a visa can be issued only if the child and his parent with whom he arrived have the same last name. In this case, the cost of obtaining a visa is the same as for an adult. If the last names are not the same, then you need to have a birth certificate and papers confirming the relationship of the child and his parent.

1. If a child comes to the country using the parents’ passport, then the surname does not matter. But when receiving a visa, you must indicate in whose passport the minor is entered. If the child is already 5 years old, then you need to paste his photo.
2. If no one is accompanying the child, then he must have permission from his father and mother, which is notarized. An English copy is also required.

Resident visa

Resident visa
There is no concept of residence permit in the United Arab Emirates. In local legislation, this means living in the UAE on a resident visa. Having such a visa, you can stay in the country for up to 3 years. But if a person leaves the country for a period of more than six months, the visa will be cancelled.

Now there are several options for obtaining a resident visa:

1. Buy housing in the UAE. This will allow the home owner to obtain a resident visa, which will be valid for six months. When the period expires, it can be extended. In this case, housing must cost at least $270,000. Otherwise, a person has no right to count on such a visa. If the price is higher than indicated, then the owner of the property can be the sponsor of his wife and children (this rule does not apply to women; only a man can act as a sponsor). This method has a disadvantage - family members do not have the right to work in the emirates;
2. Search for work in the UAE. In this case, the responsibility for obtaining a resident visa shifts to the employer. For employment, the visa period is up to 2 years. The employer must also bear the costs of registration. The foreigner will have to work off the spent funds within a specified period of time;
3. Significant investments in business and the country's economy. If you make significant investments in the economy or open your own company in a free territory, you can apply for a resident business visa, which allows you to stay in the state for up to 3 years. The enterprise must be officially registered. All fees prescribed by law must be paid in full and on time. The children and wife of the business owner can qualify for such a visa.

Immigrants from the former USSR are mainly employed here in catering establishments as waiters. These are mainly guys and girls who speak English at an intermediate level and have not been in Dubai for much time, less than one year. The average salary is $1,000, plus accommodation is paid separately.

There are also many jobs arranged by ordinary traders in markets. As a rule, these are girls who can speak English well and have previously worked as waitresses for a year. That is, the position of a salesperson is considered the next step. Their wages almost double, but they already have to pay for housing on their own.

Process of obtaining a residence permit

Process of obtaining a residence permit
For all questions regarding immigration, you should contact the Consulate of the United Arab Emirates.

To apply for a residence permit you need to have the following documents:

• International passport. It must be valid for at least 90 days after the end of the planned trip;
• Completed application form in Arabic and English in 3 copies;
• Color photographs 3 by 4 (3 pieces);
• Confirmation of the possibility of obtaining a resident visa;
• Receipt for payment of the consular fee. It differs depending on the type of visa - from 40 to 80 dollars. For a child who is registered in the parent’s passport – $30. It is worth keeping in mind that if a visa is refused, the money will not be returned;
• A copy of the birth certificate (if the child does not yet have a passport);
• A copy of the marriage certificate (if the woman decided to come to the emirates without her husband and if the surnames are different);
• Certificate of income (must be provided to men who come to the country with their family as confirmation of their ability to provide for them).

Features of a resident visa

Features of a resident visa
A resident visa does not prevent the movement of emigrants - they freely cross the country’s border. The main condition is that they must visit the emirates at least once every 6 months, otherwise their residency will be automatically revoked. The visa can be restored, but it will take a long time and the process itself costs money. You can stay outside the country for more than six months without losing your visa only by presenting a document confirming a serious reason for your absence (for example, it could be a serious illness).

A resident visa has an A4 format compared to a tourist visa. The document is pasted into the passport so that a person can confirm his legal presence in the UAE at any time. Before submitting a passport for stamping, a foreigner must undergo a medical examination and complete an application for a residence card. It is similar in size to a bank card, so you can always carry it with you in your wallet. Without a resident visa, such a card will not be issued.

Residence visa extension

The renewal process is affected by the type of residence. For example, if a foreigner has his own residential plot in the country, then to renew he needs to travel outside the emirates once every 6 months. In this case, the residence permit will be automatically extended upon arrival at the airport. If a person has his own business, then he needs to renew his visa at special services every 3 years. This is usually handled by the consulate.

When extending a visa, you need to provide all the same documents as for its registration, including a medical certificate. If the visa is extended by a male businessman, it is automatically extended for his wife and children staying with him in the country. The renewal procedure will cost about 200-250 dirhams.

The main condition for extending a visa is strict compliance with the laws of the country.

Getting an education

Education in the UAE
Moving to live in the Emirates while studying at one of the country's universities is quite possible. But for this, the student must have excellent command of English. Training is almost never taught in Russian. In addition, the student must have a lot of money with him, which will be enough for housing and food, since a student visa does not allow employment. In some institutions you need to pay for the entire period of study at once. The annual cost of training is approximately 5-10 thousand dollars. In branches of British educational institutions the cost will be 2 times higher.

Stages of preparation for moving to the UAE

Obtaining a resident visa (residence permit)

Having a resident visa is the main requirement for obtaining a residence permit.

Be careful! There is an important difference between a residence permit and a regular long-term visa. A long-term visa gives the right to stay in the UAE for 60 days

To continue living in the Emirates, you will need to apply for a residence permit.

There are two types of residence permits: with and without a work permit. The second type is issued to students, as well as family members of those who immigrate to the UAE for employment or business purposes.

The strict laws of the United Arab Emirates do not provide for permanent residence. In this way, the government protects the high standard of living in its state from unwanted outsiders.

Legalization of documents

A formal but mandatory procedure necessary to give documents legal force in the United Arab Emirates - without legalization they will be just “pieces of paper.”

It is necessary to legalize:

• Marriage certificate;
• Birth certificate (for children);
• Powers of attorney (if any);
• Education documents;
• Certificate of good conduct;
• Other documents that may be required depending on your type of activity (for example, agency agreements, contracts, constituent documents for the parent company if you plan to open a branch in the UAE).

You DO NOT need to legalize: work book, driver's license, identity cards (regular and international passport), military ID. If necessary, it will be enough to provide a notarized translation.

Since the UAE has not signed the Hague Convention, legalization here is consular. This means that you first need to legalize the documents at the ministry of the country where the documents were issued, then translate them into English and Arabic with notarization, and then certify them at the consulate and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

If you don’t have the time or desire, you can entrust the legalization of documents for moving to the UAE to specialized companies.

Domestic issues

Having resolved all the formal issues, you also need to take care of where you will live in the Emirates. For the first days upon arrival, you can stay in a hotel until you find a suitable rental option. Rental prices vary depending on the city and region.

If you are moving with your family, in addition to housing, you should also take care of an educational institution for your children in advance.

And, of course, it is important to prepare mentally for the move, because the UAE is a Muslim country with its own rules and customs. Have an easy move to the United Arab Emirates!

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How to emigrate from Russia to the UAE

You can cross the UAE border with a tourist, work, visitor, student visa or another type of entry permit. But obtaining a residence permit is much more problematic. The basis for obtaining a residence permit in the United Arab Emirates may be the purchase of real estate on the territory of the state or the employment of an immigrant within its borders.

A residence permit is issued upon completion of a resident visa. Its validity period is three years. Next, an extension or registration of permanent residence status is required. Obtaining permanent residence is associated with certain difficulties, since you will need good knowledge of the Arabic language and a constant high income.

UAE Resident Visa

It is important that residency does not restrict the movement of immigrants; they can freely cross the UAE border. The only condition is to visit the country once every six months. If a person has been outside the Emirates for more than 180 days, he automatically loses his residency. Recovery is possible, but it will again take a lot of time, and the procedure itself, of course, is paid. Staying outside the country for more than six months without canceling a resident visa is possible subject to the provision of documents confirming a valid reason for absence (certificate of illness - for those who cross the border for the purpose of treatment, documents confirming study at a foreign university for students, certificate of employment and etc.).

Unlike the usual tourist visa, the UAE resident visa is an A4 document.

It is usually pasted into the passport so that a foreigner can at any time confirm the legality of his stay in the country. This procedure is carried out in special authorities. Before submitting your passport for a visa, you must first undergo a medical examination and apply for a Resident ID card, which can identify the owner. It's the size of a credit card, so it's easy to carry around. Resident ID contains all the basic information about the owner and serves as confirmation of his residence. It is impossible to obtain a card without a resident visa.

Is it possible to extend

The procedure for extending a resident visa depends on the category of residence. For example, a person who has a plot of land in the Emirates must leave the country every six months to renew his residence permit. In this case, the procedure will be completed directly at the airport upon the immigrant’s arrival in the Emirates.

If the visa of a male entrepreneur is extended, the residence visas of his family members who are in the Emirates under his guardianship will be automatically extended.

The cost of renewal will vary from 200 to 250 dirhams.

Living and working in the Emirates: how to move and what a tourist needs to know

It’s impossible to imagine a situation where they take something out of your pockets on public transport or try to “catch” you in a dark alley.

The police are also unusually efficient.

The second difference is the culture of behavior.

Here people are calmer, more balanced and responsive.

Even if a person is in a hurry, he will still help you or give you advice. This also happens in Ukraine, but very rarely.

The third feature I would call regularity. Arabs are not in a particular hurry to do anything on time. For example, you can arrange a meeting at 7 pm, and the person will come after nine and this will be considered normal. This situation can be seen in other areas of life in the Emirates. But, of course, this does not apply to deadlines and tasks at work.

You need to be prepared for anything and calmly react to what is happening. For example, in a restaurant a person can safely eat with his hands because it is normal in his country.

And the last thing, perhaps, is nutrition.

How to obtain a residence permit

There is no such term as residence permit in the country. This concept includes being in the Emirates on the terms of a resident visa. It makes it possible not to leave the borders of the state for three years. A visa can only be canceled if a person has left the UAE for more than six months. Today there are several ways to obtain a resident visa:

• buy any housing in the United Arab Emirates. Purchasing a home provides the buyer with the opportunity to obtain a resident visa, which is valid for six months. When your visa expires, it can be extended. The main feature is that the purchased property must cost at least $280,000, otherwise, if the cost is lower than the agreed price, the buyer will be denied a residence visa. The owner of a property whose price is significantly higher than the indicated one has the right to be a sponsor for his wife and children. Unfortunately, a woman cannot act as a sponsor; only a man can act as a sponsor. The negative side is that all family members who received a resident visa in this way cannot work in the United Arab Emirates;
• find a job in the country. When a migrant is employed in the UAE, his employer deals with issues of providing a residence visa to his employee. This visa allows you to stay in the vicinity of the state for a period of no more than two years. If the visa is provided by the employer, he also pays its cost, and the migrant returns the entire amount gradually, within a predetermined period;
• make significant investments in the economic development of the UAE. In case of significant investment in the development of the state's economy or opening a personal business, it provides the right to obtain a visa valid for three years. Any business must be officially certified by the relevant authorities and make payments as required by the legislative authorities of the UAE. Foreigners who have received a business visa can also act as a sponsor for their wife and children.

Citizens living in the CIS work in the United Arab Emirates most often in cafes and restaurants, as waiters and bartenders.

Basic requirements are intermediate level knowledge of English; as a rule, the salary is $1,000. Girls with excellent knowledge of English work in malls, the salary reaches up to $2,000, and in this case housing is not provided.

Procedure for obtaining a residence permit

To obtain this document you need to contact the UAE Embassy.

Documents required for registration:

• international passport;
• 3 copies of the questionnaire;
• 3 color photographs 3 × 4 cm;
• income certificate;
• documents to prove the grounds for the request (marriage certificate, employment contract, etc.).

A residence permit gives a foreign citizen the right to freely cross the country’s border an unlimited number of times. Leaving the country for more than 180 days is not allowed, otherwise the residence permit will be cancelled.

There is no official concept of permanent residence in the country. Only people with citizenship or a residence permit can stay on the territory of the state for a long time.

After 3-15 years of residence in the UAE (depending on the reason for immigration), a person is issued a passport, which serves only as proof of his identity and does not mean he has citizenship of the country.

Advantages of obtaining a residence permit

Advantages of obtaining a residence permit in the Emirates:

1. Complete absence of taxes. The UAE does not require resident visa holders to pay taxes, as other countries do.
2. Availability of creating your own company. In the emirates you can simply, quickly and relatively inexpensively register your company. Such pleasure will cost approximately $5,350–$8,000 depending on the type of activity.
3. Obtaining a residence permit is possible for all family members at once. Relevant for entrepreneurs and property owners who want to move with their family.
4. Possibility of opening a personal bank account. Banks in the UAE are not inferior to well-known European ones in terms of quality of service, and they are rightfully considered one of the safest financial institutions in the world.
5. Unhindered travel to other Gulf countries.

Registration cost

The price of obtaining a residence permit depends on the category of applicants. The cost for different categories of applicants differs markedly from each other.

The price of obtaining a residence permit depends on the basis for obtaining it:

Reasons for refusal to obtain a residence permit

Refusal to obtain a residence permit or permanent residence permit is not uncommon. The negative decision of the authorities in this case cannot be challenged in court. Therefore, you can simply go to the migration service, find out the reason for the refusal and eliminate it. Or try to apply again. The number of applications for temporary resident status is not limited by law. Please remember that administrative fees are non-refundable.

As a rule, the main reasons for refusal are:

• incomplete package of applicant documents,
• criminal past or present,
• insufficient level of income.

Current civil servants of other states (officials, military, police) will also not receive a residence permit in the United Arab Emirates as long as they are in service.

How to move to live for permanent residence in the United Arab Emirates?

Methods of moving to Dubai are the grounds provided for by the legislation of the country. The following can be distinguished:

1. Employment in the UAE. Expats often move to Dubai because of the comfortable and well-paid working conditions. The service staff receives good money by Russian standards.
2. Moving to obtain an education diploma that meets the highest international standards is another way provided for by law. Training is conducted only in English. Upon admission, testing for the level of language proficiency is mandatory.
3. Moving to open your own business in Dubai is one of the most effective ways to legally move to this country for permanent residence.
4. For the purpose of investing your own funds.
5. Buying real estate in Dubai is a method for wealthy Russian citizens. The cost of housing must be at least 1 million dirhams (local currency). At the same time, there are no restrictions on its use, and taxes are also not levied.
6. Relocation due to family circumstances. International marriages are now common, including with Arabs. But in order to support a Russian woman as a wife, an Arab must be very wealthy, because upon marriage he is deprived of some privileges. The authorities will not provide a mortgage on a house or a plot of land in case of marriage with a Russian woman.

Grounds for obtaining a residence permit

You can enter the territory of the United Arab Emirates with a tourist, guest or resident visa. The latter option is issued for a period from 2 months to several years, depending on the purpose of the trip. When dreaming of permanent residence in Dubai, you should remember that visa requirements for residents of different countries may differ, and they also depend on the nuances of the local legislation of a particular emirate.

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For Russians, the grounds for obtaining a resident visa may be:

1. Registration of marriage with a citizen of the United Arab Emirates.
2. Investment or entrepreneurial activity.
3. Employment.
4. Purchasing real estate in the UAE.
5. University studies.

A residence permit obtained on any of the listed grounds will allow you to live in the country for a certain period of time and practically equalize the rights with the indigenous residents. With a sufficient level of income, an immigrant will be able to move his family to the UAE, and, if necessary, leave the country and return back. It should be remembered that the period of absence should not exceed 180 days, otherwise the resident visa will be cancelled.

Registration of marriage with a citizen of the United Arab Emirates

In a Muslim state, registration of marriage with a representative of another faith is allowed only to men. A woman who decides to marry a foreigner must obtain permission from the Naturalization Office. Otherwise, she will lose her UAE citizenship. A foreign spouse is not considered a legal applicant for a residence permit, and children born in this marriage will only be able to obtain citizenship of the country after 18 years of age.

A marital union between a foreign bride and an Arab cannot be called an “oriental fairy tale.” Firstly, such a union implies complete dependence on the husband, without the right to work. Secondly, in order to obtain citizenship in the UAE, the bride is obliged to convert to Islam. Thirdly, she will be able to obtain a passport no earlier than after 15 years and only if the marriage has not been dissolved. Fourthly, after a divorce, children always remain with their father and can leave the country only with his permission.

Investment and business activities

A free economic zone and one of the world's best container ports, Jebel Ali in Dubai attracts investors and businessmen from all over the world. Moving as an investor or entrepreneur is considered not only the easiest, but also the most profitable:

• there is virtually no taxation;
• the legislative framework is favorable for opening and running a business;
• the investment amount starts from 70 thousand dirhams or 19 thousand dollars;
• the entrepreneur receives the right to apply for a resident visa.

Investments are possible both in an existing and in a new enterprise. The minimum investment amount is determined by the legislation of a particular emirate. An “infusion” of 5 million dirhams (just under $1.5 million) into the economy will allow you to obtain permanent residence in Dubai for 5 years. Investments from 10 million dirhams (3 million dollars) – for 10 years. At the same time, an immigrant businessman can only work in the company in which he invested.

Employment

To support the economic growth of the state, the UAE government has created a program that allows it to hire foreigners. For Ukrainians, Russians or Belarusians who speak English well, the easiest way to find work is in the hotel or tourism sector. An immigrant will not be offered the position of senior manager or hotel manager in the Emirates, but activity and responsibility will certainly be rewarded with various bonuses and promotions.

A residence permit in the UAE for an employee is issued by the employer and most often for 2 years. He also pays the cost of the resident visa, after which he deducts the amount spent from the employee’s salary. The issue of the content of the social package and the possibility of transporting the family is also discussed with the employer.

Purchasing real estate in the UAE

You can get permanent residence in Dubai or a resident visa for 3 years by purchasing real estate worth more than 1 million dirhams (270 thousand dollars). In this case, you need to pay attention to several points:

• The transaction is concluded only with a company that has permission to sell real estate to foreigners.
• The right to a resident visa is given by real estate purchased exclusively in Dubai.
• There are no restrictions on the use of the purchased property, but it cannot be mortgaged.
• The owner of the apartment receives the right to reside and open accounts in international banks. He does not have the right to employment.

You can extend your residence permit on this basis by confirming a monthly income of 10 thousand dirhams (2.7 thousand dollars) and remaining the owner of the acquired property.

University studies

Enrollment in any university in the United Arab Emirates entitles you to obtain a resident visa. At the same time, the student must speak English at a sufficiently high level and confirm the availability of funds to pay for tuition. You cannot earn extra money while studying, and the cost of an annual course ranges from 5 to 10 thousand dollars in state universities, and from 20 thousand dollars in local branches of British ones. Some institutions consider paying full fees for the first year of study a requirement for a student to enroll.

You cannot count on permanent residence in the UAE on the basis of a student visa, but successful completion of a local university opens the way to obtaining a well-paid job both in the Emirates and in any other country in the world.

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