The Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) Free Zone is a premier destination for businesses looking to establish a presence in the Middle East. With its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and attractive business environment, DMCC offers a multitude of benefits for entrepreneurs. However, one of the key considerations for any company setting up in the Free Zone is the cost of obtaining visas for employees.
We’ll explore some cost-saving strategies and highlight the resources available to help you navigate the visa application process.
Understanding the DMCC Visa Landscape
This article delves into the intricacies of DMCC visa costs, providing a comprehensive breakdown of the fees involved and exploring the factors that influence the final price tag.
Unlike a traditional visa issued by the UAE government, a DMCC visa is specifically tied to employment within the Free Zone. This visa allows employees to reside and work in Dubai for the duration of their employment contract. There are two main types of DMCC visas:
Residence Visa
This is the most common type of visa issued to employees working for companies registered in the DMCC Free Zone. It grants residency rights in Dubai for the validity period of the employment contract, typically one to three years.
Employee Visa
This visa is issued to employees who require frequent travel for business purposes. It offers more flexibility compared to a residence visa but may come with additional costs.
Breakdown of DMCC Visa Costs
The cost of obtaining a DMCC visa is not a single fixed amount. It’s a combination of various fees charged by different entities. Here’s a breakdown of the primary components:
1.DMCC Fees
Application Fee
A non-refundable fee is charged by DMCC to initiate the visa application process. This fee typically ranges from AED 500 (USD 136) to AED 1,035 (USD 281).
Registration Fee
This fee covers the processing and registration of the visa application with DMCC. It can range from AED 9,020 (USD 2,456) to AED 20,285 (USD 5,523) depending on the type of license your company holds.
Establishment Card Fee
This annual fee is charged for each visa issued and is used to maintain the company’s registration in DMCC. It usually costs around AED 1,825 (USD 496).
2.Emirates ID Fees
Emirates ID Processing Fee
This fee covers the processing and issuance of the Emirates ID card, a mandatory identification document for UAE residents. It can range from AED 100 (USD 27) to AED 450 (USD 123).
Medical Fitness Test
All visa applicants must undergo a mandatory medical test to ensure they meet health requirements. The cost of this test varies depending on the chosen medical facility.
3.Additional Costs
Typing Services
Typing centers can assist with completing visa application forms for a fee.
Medical Insurance
Employers are typically required to provide health insurance coverage for their employees. The cost of insurance will vary depending on the chosen provider and the level of coverage.
Visa Agent Fees
Some companies may choose to utilize the services of a visa agent to handle the application process. These agents typically charge a fee for their services.
Factors Influencing DMCC Visa Costs
Several factors can influence the total cost of obtaining a DMCC visa. Here are some key considerations:
Company License Type
The type of license your company holds in DMCC can affect the registration fee associated with visa applications. Trading and service licenses typically have lower registration fees compared to more specialized licenses.
Number of Visas
The cost increases proportionally with the number of visas your company applies for.
Visa Type
Employee visas may have additional costs compared to standard residence visas.
Payment Plan
Some DMCC company formation packages may include visa application fees in their overall cost.
Conclusion
Obtaining DMCC visas is an essential step for companies setting up shop in the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Free Zone. While there are associated costs, understanding the breakdown of fees and the factors influencing them allows for informed budgeting and potentially cost-saving strategies.
