FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do you have questions about Virtuzone, entrepreneurship or anything about doing business in the UAE? Check our FAQ below to find the answers you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Virtuzone form?

Virtuzone was founded in 2009 as the 1st private Company Formation Specialist in the UAE.

Do you speak my language?

Our international team speaks over 30 languages including English, Arabic, French, Spanish, German, Italian, Farsi, Tagalog, Urdu and many more.

Which jurisdictions does Virtuzone work with?

Virtuzone assists with company incorporation across more than 50 free zones and can also assist with mainland and offshore company formation.

How many companies has Virtuzone helped start?

To date, Virtuzone has helped in the formation of over 15,000 companies in the UAE.

What is the best way to reach Virtuzone?

You can reach our team on +971 4 597 3690 or send us an email at info@virtuzone.com.

Where is Virtuzone located?

Our head office is located in:

Al Saaha Offices B, 404, Souk Al Bahar, Burj Khalifa District, Dubai, UAE.

You can find the location on Google Maps here.

You can also find us at the Etisalat Hello Business Hub, One JLT, 2nd floor, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai, UAE.

You can reach our team on +971 4 597 3690 or send us an email at info@virtuzone.com.

What documents are required for trade licence renewal?

To renew a trade licence the following documentation is required:

  1. A signed copy of the terms and conditions
  2. A signed price list
  3. A signed application form
  4. A signed office lease agreement (if applicable)
  5. The Shareholder’s updated documents (passport and visa copies)

What documents are required for new visa application?

To apply for a new visa the following documentation is required:

  1. The signed visa application form
  2. A passport copy (holding 7 months’ validity with 3 empty pages)
  3. Documents to show current visa status
  4. A copy of the valid company license
  5. A copy of the valid Establishment / Immigration card
  6. A signed employment contract
  7. A copy of a University degree (if applicable, attested, and translated)
  8. Passport photographs (white backgrounds, passport sized, and high resolution)

What documents are required for renewal visa application?

To apply for a visa renewal the following documentation is required:

  1. The signed visa application form
  2. A passport copy (holding 7 months’ validity with 3 empty pages) with UAE residence visa
  3. The original medical fitness test report showing negative results for the tested diseases
  4. A copy of the Emirates ID card renewal registration form
  5. A copy of the valid company licence
  6. A copy of the valid Establishment / Immigration card
  7. A signed employment contract
  8. A copy of a University degree (if applicable, attested, and translated)
  9. Passport photographs (white backgrounds, passport sized, and high resolution)

How long does it take to process a licence renewal?

The licence renewal process will take 2-7 working days to renewed.

How long does it take to process a new and renewal visa application?

A new visa application will require 2-6 weeks whilst a visa renewal will require only 5-15 working days to complete. It should be noted that these timeframes are approximations only and may be expedited. Visa issuance can be delayed or rejected due to Government security approvals.

How long does it take to process a dependant’s visa?

A dependant’s visa will require approximately 1-3 weeks to process.

It should be noted that this timeframe is an approximation and may be expedited. Visa issuance can be delayed or rejected due to Government security approvals.

How do I change the name of my company?

To change your company name you must first come up with a new suggested company name and we will seek approval from the licensing authority/jurisdiction. Upon availability of the name and the approval an advert must be placed in a local newspaper notifying this change (a legal notice of company name change). We also require signed amendment forms and all of the original company documents must be returned.

How can I sell my company?

To sell your company you will need the Immigration pre-approval of the new owner(s), to return all original company documents and have a signed sale of shares forms between the buyer and seller.

It should be noted that other requirements may be applicable subject to jurisdiction of incorporation or application. Requirements are subject to change from time to time with or without prior notice. Please speak to a member of the Relationship Management Department to find out more.

What documents are required for a dependant’s visa?

To apply for a dependant’s visa the following documentation is required:

  1. The dependant’s signed residence visa application form
  2. A copy of the sponsor’s valid passport
  3. A copy of the sponsor’s valid UAE residence visa
  4. A copy of the dependant’s valid passport
  5. Documents that show current visa status
  6. The sponsor’s original Emirates ID card
  7. The original EJARI registration certificate and original tenancy agreement or title deed showing the sponsor as tenant/owner
  8. The sponsor’s original salary certificate (issued by the licensing authority or sponsor)
  9. The sponsor’s original marriage certificate (attested and translated, if not in English or Arabic language)
  10. Dependant’s passport photographs (white backgrounds, passport sized, and high resolution)

How do I start the visa process?

Once your establishment card is issued you will need to contact your Visa Consultant. They will guide you through the process and collect the necessary documents.

Can I transfer my company to another free zone?

As of right now it is not possible to transfer your company to a different free zone. However you can set up a branch of your existing company in a different free zone.

What do I need to open a UAE bank account?

In order to open a UAE bank account you will need to provide the following documents:

  • The original corporate documents that you have received from Virtuzone
  • CV of Shareholders and Directors
  • A business summary
  • Additional documents may also be requested

How much does it cost to open bank account?

Opening a UAE bank account is free of charge if you do it on your own. However, each bank has its own requirements when it comes to maintaining a minimum monthly balance. We can also help you set up your bank account. To learn more about our Bank Account Opening services, please click here.

How can I collect my company documents?

Once your licence is issued, you will receive an email from the Virtuzone team. You may then schedule a meeting with our Client Service Specialist and collect your documents at a convenient time.

What is the process and procedure for renewing my trade license?

Your relationship manager will send you notifications for renewal 3 months before it is due. When it is convenient for you contact them and they will handle the procedure for you.

What is the process and procedure for renewing my visa(s)?

The first step is to do your medical fitness test and register for Emirates ID renewal. Once this is done and the medical results issued, come into Virtuzone with your valid passport (with 3 empty pages and validity of at least 7 months remaining) along with other required documents. Your Visa Specialist will then guide you through the process.

For Pricing details, visit Freezone Pricing Visit step-by-step guide to registering a company in Dubai and the UAE

Can my local partner take control of my business?

Yes, but only if you are not structured correctly. At Virtuzone we offer comprehensive advice on company structuring and can implement a few mechanisms to ensure you always remain in control of your business.

What happens if my local partner passes away?

If your local partner is a natural person, then an heir will inherit the 51% share in your business. It is then up to that person if he or she wishes to continue in the same manner as nominee shareholder or if they wish to negotiate new terms or be more involved in the business. At Virtuzone we offer a corporate nominee shareholder solution that can protect you in the event of the passing of a local partner.

Can foreigners now own Mainland companies 100%?

Yes, in some cases this is possible. If interested, please contact Virtuzone and we will see if we can do this for you.

Check this – Looking for a local sponsor in Dubai?

What if I want to change my local partner?

Virtuzone offers a market leading 30-day notice period without penalty if you wish for us to transfer the shares to a new partner while under our sponsorship. However, if you have a natural person as your local partner it is your responsibility to negotiate exit terms at the time of exit.

Can my UAE mainland company buy property?

Yes, your mainland company can own both residential and commercial property in the UAE.

If I have a 51% local partner, can I still fully control my business?

Yes, in some cases this is possible. If interested, please contact Virtuzone and we will see if we can do this for you. You can also read more here.

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