Can UAE residency visa be obtained through property purchase if income in wife’s name?

Keren Bobker advises a Pakistan resident who wants to buy a Dubai property worth Dh2m but income is paid into his wife's bank account.

Keren Bobker advises a Dubai property buyer. Sarah Dea / The National

You recently answered a query about obtaining a UAE residency visa if you buy a property. In my case, I live in Pakistan and am considering buying a property in Dubai worth Dh2 million. I have an online business and while the income is well above Dh10,000, it is paid into my wife’s bank account. My question is, can I apply for a property ownership visa after buying property in Dubai in my name if the income is in my wife’s account? AT, Pakistan

The person who is applying for the visa must demonstrate that they have a monthly income of Dh10,000 or more so it must be paid to them, or in their name. The income of a spouse will not be accepted, so AT would not be able to apply for a residency visa unless he personally meets the stated criteria.

Keren Bobker is an independent financial adviser with Holborn Assets in Dubai, with over 20 years of experience. Contact her at [e-mail] Follow her on Twitter at @FinancialUAE

The advice provided in our columns does not constitute legal advice and is provided for information only. Readers are encouraged to seek appropriate independent legal advice

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