How to Get a Residency Visa Through RAKEZ Free Zone Business Setup
If you are considering moving to or working in the UAE but don’t wish to pay high prices for Dubai, here’s the good news: a residency visa through RAKEZ free zone is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to begin life in the Emirates. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or investor, RAKEZ provides an easy route to residency, offering excellent advantages and assistance.
In this handbook, we will guide you through all you need to know to obtain your residency via the RAKEZ business setup. We will walk you through the process step by step, point out the main advantages, respond to your queries, and even illustrate how PRO services can simplify the entire process.
What is a Residency Visa?
A residency visa is an official document that permits you to reside in the UAE for a long period. Contrary to a tourist visa, which allows you to stay temporarily for a visit, a residency visa grants you permission to reside, work, study, and even bring your family along. It’s typically valid for 2 to 3 years, and you can renew it upon expiry.
With a residency visa, you can:
- Open a bank account
- Rent an apartment or house
- Obtain a UAE driver’s license
- Register your children in school
- Apply for healthcare and insurance
- Sponsor your family members
Currently, there are several different options for obtaining a residency visa in the UAE:
- Employment Visa: If you get a job with a company, they can sponsor your visa.
- Family Visa: If your parent or spouse already has a visa, they can sponsor you.
- Property Investment: Some individuals invest in property in the UAE and obtain a visa through this.
- Company Formation: This is where RAKEZ is involved!
Opening a company in the UAE is one of the most flexible and best means of obtaining a visa. Particularly for investors, small business operators, and freelancers, this is empowering as you have control. You do not need to be dependent on an employer or purchase costly property. Rather, you can create your future by starting a company and obtaining a visa by doing so.
Most expats like to establish a business in RAKEZ (Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone) or Dubai’s free zones. It’s legal, it’s wise, and above all, it provides you with freedom. Put, a residency visa is your ticket to Abu Dhabi (and Dubai, Sharjah, and the rest of the UAE)—and RAKEZ makes that ticket much closer to attain.
About the Residency Visa Through RAKEZ Free Zone
So, what is the residency visa via the RAKEZ free zone exactly? Let’s explain it in plain language. RAKEZ stands for Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, a free zone located in the UAE’s northern region. It was constructed with the aim to support individuals such as you—entrepreneurs, freelancers, and investors—in establishing a business and residing in the UAE legally.
First of all, this free zone has an all-in-one package. That is, you can establish your business, obtain a visa, have your Emirates ID, and even select your office space—all in one location. And you can have several kinds of business licenses to choose from based on your activity. Trade, services, or tech—RAKEZ has it all.
What makes it stand out?
You don’t require a local sponsor. You have 100% foreign ownership, which is a huge plus. In addition, you don’t need a large office. A tiny flexi-desk will suffice to get your visa approved. After your business is registered, you can apply for a RAKEZ investor visa or an employment visa through their RAKEZ free zone visa application process. It’s largely online, relatively quick to do, and has minimal paperwork.
Apart from that, it is much cheaper than in other emirates such as Dubai or Abu Dhabi. If you want to live in the UAE but don’t want to break the bank, this is a fantastic choice. You will receive a complete legal residency, giving you permission to open a bank account, rent an apartment, and sponsor your family as well.
Ras Al Khaimah Residence Visa Requirements
Before applying, keep in mind that the UAE residency requirements get residency via RAKEZ. Here’s the easy-to-follow list of what you require:
Basic Requirements
- Valid passport (with a minimum of 6 months of validity)
- Passport-sized photos (white background)
- Clean criminal record
- Health insurance policy
- Entry permit (from RAKEZ)
Additional Documents
- Document of address (local or foreign)
- Business license (if applying through company setup)
- Emirates ID application form
- Medical fitness test results
All of these will be included in your RAKEZ visa process. RAKEZ simplifies this by allowing you to be led through each step.
Types of Ras Al Khaimah Visa
RAKEZ provides various types of visas based on your profession and circumstances:
1. RAKEZ Investor Visa
- For investors or owners/shareholders
- Valid for 2-3 years
- You’ll receive your visa by creating a company in RAKEZ.
2. Employment Visa
For RAKEZ-registered company employees or managers. Also entitled for 2 or 3 years.
3. Family Visa
Want to bring your wife/husband and/or your kids? Once you obtain your visa, you can apply for theirs using free zone residency perks.
4. Freelance Visa
Perfect for lone professionals. RAKEZ permits you to work as a freelancer legally under its business flexibility packages.
All these are a part of the larger RAKEZ visa process and involve Emirates ID, medical examination, and visa stamping.
How to Get a Residency Visa Through RAKEZ Free Zone Business Setup
Obtaining your residency visa with the RAKEZ Free Zone is easy if you follow the process. The process at first may appear lengthy. But every step is straightforward. Additionally, you can receive assistance along the way. So, let’s go through it together.
Step 1: Select Your Business Activity
RAKEZ has more than 1,000 business activities to choose from. You have the option of trading, consulting, services, media, or even e-commerce. Furthermore, such diversity allows you to select that which is most appropriate for your purpose. You can then align your visa type to your business plan.
Step 2: Choose Your Legal Structure
Next, choose your company type. From Free Zone Establishment (FZE), Free Zone Company (FZC), or a branch of your foreign company. Also, consider your budget and company size. Apart from this, the selection impacts the way your business will operate.
Step 3: Select an Office Package
Next, choose your office area. RAKEZ has Flexi-desks, shared offices, executive suites, and warehouses. Therefore, even if you are on a low budget, you can still make it. Then, utilize your address for visa and license purposes.
Step 4: Submit Your Documents
Now, gather all the documents that you need. These are your passport, business plan, and visa photo. Additionally, you can apply online or hire a PRO services company in UAE. After that, your file is scrutinized before proceeding to the next step.
Step 5: Obtain Entry Permit
After your business is established, RAKEZ applies for your entry visa. This process enables you to enter the UAE legally. Additionally, it is the start of your residency via RAKEZ business life. Subsequently, you can proceed with medical testing.
Step 6: Complete Medical & Emirates ID
After entering the UAE, take your medical test. This test includes a chest X-ray and blood test. Next, apply for your Emirates ID. Also, biometric scans like fingerprints are required. Finally, wait for your results and ID confirmation.
Step 7: Residency Visa Stamping
Once your medical is cleared, you can submit your passport. Your official residency visa will be stamped on it. You will also receive your Emirates ID in due course. Now, you are legally permitted to reside, work, and develop your business in the UAE.
The entire process takes approximately 10-15 working days in case everything works in your favour.
Benefits of Getting a Residency Visa Through RAKEZ Free Zone
Obtaining a residency visa through RAKEZ free zone has numerous advantages. Whether you are beginning or adding something new to your business, this route is fantastic value. Plus, it simplifies life and work.
1. Cost-Effective
To begin with, RAKEZ has lower setup fees compared to other emirates. You spend less on your business license and visa. Therefore, you can utilize that additional amount of money to expand.
2. Strategic Location
Second, RAKEZ is only an hour from Dubai. You have tranquillity in Ras Al Khaimah, but can still access Dubai with ease. Further, movement is easy and quick.
3. Easy & Quick Setup
Your setup is quick with PRO services in Dubai. Next, they take you from paperwork to stamping your visa. You will not get lost or confused.
4. 100% Foreign Ownership
You completely own your company. Moreover, there is no necessity for a local sponsor. So, it provides you with authority and complete rights over your business.
5. Visa for Family
Once you have obtained your visa, you can sponsor your family as well. Thus, your children and spouse can live, study, and lead their lives in the UAE.
6. Banking & Residency Benefits
Your RAKEZ investor visa facilitates opening bank accounts for you. After that, you are eligible for loans, renting houses, and obtaining a UAE driver’s license as well.
7. Business Expansion Opportunities
Lastly, RAKEZ provides business support for you. You have co-working offices, events, and mentors. Moreover, it is a good spot to network and gain knowledge from others as well.
That is why so many expats and investors opt for residency through RAKEZ business instead of more costly ones.
PRO Is Here to Assist
It can be puzzling to start a business and apply for a UAE visa, particularly if it’s your first experience. That’s why employing the PRO service company in UAE is a good decision. They assist you with all aspects, such as getting the right documents, completing the forms, and scheduling your medical test. They also help you with applying for your Emirates ID and give you updates about your visa status. That way, you will never have to worry about doing something wrong or missing a crucial step.
Finally, if you wish to have a hassle-free and speedy RAKEZ visa process, it’s advisable to avail of PRO services in Dubai. They are well-versed with the system and make it convenient for you, saving you time, energy, and stress. It’s easy, secure, and well worth it.
FAQs
Q1. Who is eligible to apply for a RAKEZ residency visa?
First and foremost, anyone aged 18 years and above is eligible to apply if they wish to begin a business, invest, or work within the UAE legally.
Q2. Can I bring my family members along with me to the UAE?
Absolutely! Once you obtain your RAKEZ visa, you can even apply to sponsor your spouse, children, or parents under the family visa scheme.
Q3. For how long is the RAKEZ visa valid?
Typically, the RAKEZ visa remains valid for 2 or 3 years. You can then renew it when it expires.
Q4. What if I don’t require a huge office area?
No problem! You can opt for a Flexi-desk package. It’s budget-friendly, satisfies all visa requirements, and benefits small businesses or freelancers, too.
Q5. Is RAKEZ just suitable for big companies?
Not. There are not only large businesses but also startups, solo owners, and freelancers who can benefit from RAKEZ’s legal business hub.
Q6. Can PRO services facilitate visa cancellation or renewal?
Yes, PRO services in Dubai facilitate cancellation, renewal, and updates. Therefore, you won’t have to deal with the government steps yourself.
Q7. What is the cost of a RAKEZ business visa?
The business visa UAE package begins from approximately AED 11,000. But it varies based on office size, type of business, and chosen license.
Q8. What are the services included in the RAKEZ business setup?
You’ll get visa help, license registration, Emirates ID, and more. Finally, everything is handled through one easy RAKEZ-free zone system.
Conclusion
Getting a residency visa through RAKEZ free zone is one of the smartest ways to live and work in the UAE. It’s affordable, simple, and open to all kinds of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and investors. By establishing your business in RAKEZ, you open the doors to free zone residency, business expansion, and an improved standard of living. With guidance from business setup in Dubai professionals and trusted professional services, you can relax as everything is done for you.
So why wait? Take your first step toward the UAE dream today. Choose RAKEZ and build your future in one of the fastest-growing free zones in the region.