Frequently Asked Questions About Free Zone Setup
Find clear answers to the most common questions about UAE company formation, Free Zone licenses, and investor visas. Our expert guidance ensures smooth, compliant, and hassle-free business setup.
Company Formation – Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to form a company in the UAE?
A: Most Free Zone licenses are issued within a few working days once documents are approved.
Do I need to be in the UAE to start my company?
A: No, company formation can begin remotely; travel is usually only needed for visa-related steps.
How many shareholders are required for one license?
A: Some Free Zones have no minimum shareholders, giving you flexibility when setting up your company.
What types of business licenses are available in the UAE?
A: UAE companies can be set up under Mainland, Free Zone, or Offshore licenses, each allowing different activities and rules.
Investor Visa – FAQs
How many partner visas can I issue under one license?
A: Up to 7 partner visas depending on the Free Zone.
Can employee visas be issued on the same license?
A: Yes, some Free Zones allow up to 25 employee visas per license.
Can I sponsor my family with an investor visa?
A: Yes, the investor can sponsor their spouse and children immediately after obtaining residency, and they enjoy full resident rights.
Are there nationality restrictions for investor visas?
A: Some nationalities may need additional approvals, but our expertise ensures smooth processing by meeting all requirements in advance.
Free Zones – Frequently Asked Questions
Do Corpgate Free Zone packages require a physical office?
A: No, all packages include a virtual office with allocated access hours within the Free Zone facilities.
Can I get a private office or workspace for my company?
A: Yes, you can upgrade to a private office, coworking space, or extended facility access, depending on your business needs.
Can I choose multiple business activities under one license?
A: Yes, some Free Zones allow up to five related and compatible activities under one license.
How do I choose the right Free Zone for my business?
A: We evaluate your activity, visa needs, budget, and expansion plans to recommend the most suitable Free Zone.
UAE Business Setup Costs – FAQs
How much does it cost to set up a UAE Free Zone company?
A: Costs vary by Free Zone, activities, and visa quotas. Packages offer transparent UAE business setup pricing with no hidden fees.
Does the license renewal cost change each year?
A: Yes, some Free Zones offer renewal discounts of up to 50%, depending on the authority and package.
How are government fees paid for company formation?
A: As an Official Free Zone Partner, all government invoices are issued under your name, and you pay them directly to the Free Zone authority yourself, with no additional Corpgate charges.
What if my company formation Application is rejected?
A: If rejected, only the portion related to the Free Zone’s application fee is retained, and the rest is fully refunded. Initial approval can be secured to reduce risk.
Business Banking – FAQs
What documents are needed to open a corporate bank account?
A: A 6-month business account statement is required for existing companies, or a 3-month personal account statement if no prior company account exists.
Can I open a corporate account remotely from outside the UAE?
A: Yes, remote account opening is possible if at least one partner holds a UAE residence permit; travel is usually needed only for account activation or signatures.
How long does it take to open a corporate bank account in the UAE?
A: Most corporate accounts are approved within a few working days once all documents are submitted.
Are there any restrictions for opening a business bank account?
A: Banks may require at least one shareholder to hold a UAE residency. Our team ensures all requirements are met efficiently.
Corporate Tax in UAE – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a tax-exempt company in UAE?
A: Yes, some Free Zones allow company formation fully exempt from corporate tax.
What are corporate tax rates?
A: Corporate tax is 9% on annual profits exceeding AED 360,000. Some Free Zones are fully exempt.
What happens if I don’t register for corporate tax on time?
A: Corporate tax must be registered within 3 months of license issuance. If not, a AED 10,000 fine applies.
Can a late corporate tax registration fine be waived?
A: Yes, after submitting your tax return, you can request the Federal Tax Authority to cancel the late registration fine.
Still have questions? Our team of experts is ready to assist you. Contact Corpgate Team.