There has been much debate regarding UAE’s e-channel practices. Many companies are not fully understanding the process and benefits surrounding e-channel. Furthermore, new business owners that are in the process of setting up a business in Dubai are questioning what is e-channel? How much does it cost? Do I need to apply for e-channel as part of my Dubai company setup? Creation Business Consultants answer all your burning question with our guide to the United Arab Emirates E-Channel System.

Summary of the benefits for your Dubai company setup

• Streamlining all company labor and immigration services
• Cost savings
• Increased accuracy on processing 
• Slashing time to issue visas

What is the E-Channel System?

The UAE’s Ministry of Interior has introduced a new smart service system called E-Channel, for naturalization and residency services. E-Channel Immigration System is being applied under the framework of the ministry’s works to ensure the delivery of excellent services and achieve the UAE Vision 2021.

Businesses and individuals can apply for visas, residency permits and entry permits etc. through a single online portal instead of visiting a typing centre or immigration office. This is a great advance for those that are at the stage of setting up a business in Dubai.  Most company labor and immigration services can now be completed much more quickly than before. Our expert consultants are highly proficient and understand all the procedures for registering, applying and renewing government services via the e-channel systems.

Will UAE’s E-Channel System improve processes?

E-channel will improve the speed and accuracy in the issuing process for labour and immigration services and will remove the need for each applicants to go in person to service centers. It also removes the need for hard copy documents for each applicant and aims to ensure that all visa applications are processed quickly with superior integration across the Emirates.

Once your account is registered on the E-Channel portal, individuals, entrepreneurs and businesses will be able to apply for all visa types, entry permits (residence, visit and tourist) and for those of company employees, spouse, dependents and relatives. Since the implementation of UAE’s e-channel system it has reduced the number of errors drastically as there are not as many “Channels” to go through. As a result most applications are approved much faster. This is much more appealing to foreign investors that wish to have their Dubai company setup established with all its employees working as soon as possible and holding the correct credentials for working and residing in the UAE.

What are the fees to register for the E-Channel System for UAE free zones?  

The fee breakdown for E-channel registration consists of a refundable security deposit of circa AED 5,025, the initial registration amount of circa AED 2,300 along with an annual renewal fee circa AED 1,000 which will be confirmed upon final directive from the Government. The charges may vary slightly depending on the applicable licensing free zone authority.

This E-Channel System is applicable for all new and existing companies requiring residency and naturalization services. Individual free zones may have different rules and pricing regarding the e-channel process and it is recommended to speak with a member of our team once your Dubai company setup is complete as we will ensure your company government liaison services are handled as quick and efficiently as possible.