Russian businessmen and professionals often stay in the UAE for taxes and business activity, but don’t realize that in Europe you can obtain a residence permit for 3–4 years within a few months. A European residence permit grants access to the banking system, stock markets, and social services at a higher level than an Emirate ID, while the tax burden can be managed through special regimes.
European residence permits come faster than you think
In France, Spain, and partly Portugal, residence permits are issued within a few months for terms of 3 to 4 years. Compared to obtaining status in the UAE this takes longer, but far less time than people usually assume. The UK requires a more complex process, though routes there exist as well.
European resident status gives access to the entire EU system — banks, stock markets, healthcare, education, social guarantees. This is funded by the state at a high level and is unavailable to Emirate ID holders.
Life in Europe is healthier
The UAE climate, with temperatures of 45–50°C in summer, differs radically from Europe’s. Spain, France, and the UK offer more favorable conditions for the body. Moreover, in major cities — London, Paris, Barcelona, Nice — communities of entrepreneurs and professionals relocating from Dubai are growing. Over the past five years, the flow of talented people to southern France and Barcelona has increased significantly.
Taxes: from 15% instead of the UAE’s tax-free regime
The UAE has no personal income tax — the main factor keeping people with complex asset structures there. However, in France and Spain you can arrange your tax life to pay 15%, which is a quite reasonable level.
To do this, you need to restructure your asset ownership and income systems before relocating — plan everything systematically and thoughtfully. The right approach to tax optimization solves the problem if handled in advance, not after relocation. Without planning, there is a risk of undesirable consequences.
Tax optimization requires a systematic approach
You cannot simply move and keep the same asset structure and income method. Both personal financial strategy and business tax strategy need to be redesigned.
The process includes choosing the optimal jurisdiction, restructuring company and asset ownership schemes, and accounting for numerous nuances and factors. It’s important to discuss this with a specialist before relocating so that all mechanisms work legally and effectively.
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