The UAE Golden Visa is a special long-term residency program introduced in 2019 that allows people to live, work, or study in the UAE for 5 or 10 years, without the need for a local sponsor. The Golden Visa in Dubai or UAE offers more stability than regular visas, as it doesn’t require constant renewals. This visa has become incredibly popular among investors, professionals, and global citizens, offering them a chance to secure long-term residency in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
The Golden Visa has gained significant attention, especially among investors who spend over AED 2 million in property or make significant economic contributions. This opens the door for those wanting to make the UAE their home while enjoying its tax-free income and modern infrastructure.
Additionally, skilled professionals such as doctors, nurses, researchers, and engineers are also eligible for the visa, recognizing their contribution to the UAE’s growing economy.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that allows foreign nationals to live, work, or study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. It was officially introduced in 2019 by the UAE government, under the direction of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to attract and retain top talent, investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals.
Key features of the UAE Golden Visa include:
- Validity of 10 years or 5 years, depending on the category
- Automatic renewal, as long as the eligibility criteria are met
- No need for a local sponsor or employer
- Ability to sponsor family members, including spouse, children, and domestic helpers
- Freedom to live, work, and own businesses or property in the UAE
Who Can Apply for the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa program has expanded to include a wide variety of individuals, from investors and entrepreneurs to creatives and healthcare workers.
1. Investors
Ideal for individuals looking to contribute financially through property or business investments.
Public investment: Minimum AED 2 million in a UAE-approved fund, not financed by loans, plus proof of AED 250,000+ in annual tax payments.
Real estate investors:
- 10‑year visa: Own properties worth ≥ AED 2 million (can be off‑plan with 50% down-payment)
- 5‑year visa: May also be eligible with investments from AED 750,000 and standard mortgage limits
2. Entrepreneurs
For founders of innovative, tech-based or scalable businesses.
- Must own or co-own a business worth at least AED 500,000.
- Requires endorsement from a UAE-based incubator (e.g., HUB71, Area 2071) or relevant government authority.
3. Skilled Professionals & Specialists
Targeted at experienced professionals in priority sectors like AI, engineering, medicine, and finance.
Requirements:
- Must have a valid employment contract in the UAE.
- Minimum monthly basic salary: AED 30,000.
- Executives need a bachelor’s degree, 5+ years’ experience, and AED 50,000+ salary.
4. Scientists & Researchers
For academic experts pushing innovation and knowledge forward in science, tech, and medicine.
- PhD in a relevant field, high research output.
- Endorsement by the Emirates Scientists Council or a similar UAE entity.
5. Outstanding Students
Recognizing academic excellence at the school or university level.
- High school students with 95%+ marks and Ministry recommendation.
- University graduates with 3.8+ GPA or 3.5+ from top 100 global universities.
6. Cultural, Creative & Digital Talents
For individuals with artistic, creative, or digital influence in the UAE or globally.
- Artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, fashion designers.
- Content creators, influencers, game developers, and e-sports players.
- Requires endorsement from Dubai Culture or Ministry of Economy.
7. Educators
For teachers, academic leaders, and education professionals making a lasting impact.
- Teachers, lecturers, and principals with strong achievements.
- Endorsed by UAE’s education authorities (e.g., KHDA).
8. Luxury Yacht Owners
A niche category for high-net-worth individuals in the marine industry. Owners of yachts 40 m+ or key executives/shareholders in yachting sector (boats, agencies, services).
9. Healthcare Professionals (Including Nurses)
A new and highly welcomed addition, especially after the pandemic.
- Doctors, nurses, and frontline healthcare workers with valid UAE licenses (e.g., DHA, HAAD).
- Recognized for their role in national healthcare resilience.
- Nurses may now qualify even with lower salary thresholds compared to other skilled professionals.
Latest 2025 Additions:
- Content Creators & Influencers: Must show significant digital presence and impact.
- Sustainability Experts: Professionals working in renewable energy or green tech.
- Frontline Heroes (Medical Workers): Automatically eligible in many cases, especially after COVID-era contributions.
What are the Documents Required to Apply for UAE Golden Visa?
The documents required may vary slightly depending on the category of eligibility, but here are the common documents most applicants will need:
- Valid Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Recent Passport-Size Photograph (with white background)
- UAE Residence Visa Copy (if already residing in the UAE)
- Emirates ID Copy (if applicable)
- Medical Fitness Certificate (from a UAE-approved medical center)
- Valid UAE Health Insurance
- Proof of Accommodation in the UAE (e.g., tenancy contract or property deed)
- Bank Statements (typically last 6 months – may be required for financial eligibility)
- Attested Educational Certificates (if applying as a professional or student)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current employer or sponsor (in some cases)
Note: All foreign-issued documents (like degrees, experience letters) must be attested by the relevant authorities and translated into Arabic by a certified translator.
How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa?
Applying for the Golden Visa can be done online, through official platforms, with options for both in-country and remote applications:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Visit the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship) or GDRFA (general Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs) portals (https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae/en). Use the eligibility checker to confirm your category (e.g., investor, professional, healthcare worker).
Step 2: Gather All Required Documents
Prepare a complete set of paperwork:
- Passport, photo, Emirates ID (if in UAE), and tenancy or property documents.
- Category-specific documents: investment proofs, employment contract, salary certificate, medical license, endorsements, etc.
Step 3: Submit Your Nomination
Log in to the ICP Smart Services or GDRFA website or app. Choose Golden Visa → Nomination Request, carefully fill in your details, and upload scanned documents.
Step 4: Obtain Multiple-Entry Permit (for remote applicants)
Once your nomination is approved, receive a 6-month multiple-entry permit to enter the UAE and proceed with final steps in-country.
Step 5: Complete Medical & Biometric Requirements
Undergo a mandatory medical fitness test (blood test, X-ray). Visit an ICP Customer Happiness Center or typing center to submit biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and take the oath of allegiance.
Step 6: Receive Visa & Emirates ID
On approval, obtain your Golden Visa residence permit and Emirates ID card, typically within a few days to a couple of weeks.
Step 7: Visa Renewal (When Needed)
Golden Visas are typically valid for 5 or 10 years and are renewable. Keep track of your visa expiry and renew it as per the process.
What is UAE Golden Visa Cost in 2025?
The basic government fees for the UAE Golden Visa include an entry permit fee of AED 100, a visa issuance fee of AED 100, and an Emirates ID fee of AED 1,153. Additionally, there are service fees charged by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, totaling around AED 150 for electronic and smart services.
For real estate investors applying for a 5-year visa, besides owning property worth at least AED 2 million, you should expect to pay fees like the Dubai Land Department fee (about AED 4,020) and administrative fees (around AED 1,155).
Keep in mind that if your documents need attestation or translation, additional costs may apply. Also, sponsoring family members under the Golden Visa involves extra fees, including residence permits and file opening charges.
What are the UAE Golden Visa Benefits?
The UAE Golden Visa offers several attractive advantages for investors, professionals, and their families:
1. Secure Long-Term Residency with No Local Sponsor Needed
Unlike traditional visas that require a UAE national sponsor, the Golden Visa gives you 5- or 10-year renewable residency on your own merit.
2. Family Stability & Inclusion
The visa allows you to sponsor not just your spouse and children, but also dependent parents and even adult children studying abroad. This means your entire family can enjoy the benefits of living in the UAE, including access to world-class healthcare and education.
3. Freedom to Build and Grow Your Business
With the Golden Visa, investors and entrepreneurs gain the freedom to establish and expand their businesses in the UAE’s thriving economy. There’s no need for a local partner or sponsor, which simplifies the setup process and gives you full control over your investments.
4. Flexible Travel with Multiple Entry
Golden Visa holders can freely enter and exit the UAE without worrying about short-term visa restrictions. This flexibility is crucial for global citizens who travel frequently for work or family commitments.
5. No Minimum Residency Requirement
You don’t need to stay in the UAE continuously to keep your visa valid. This suits investors and professionals who split their time between countries, enabling you to maintain your UAE residency status even if your work or personal life takes you elsewhere.
UAE Golden Visa vs Standard Residency Visas
When considering residency options in the UAE, it’s important to understand how the Golden Visa differs from the traditional Standard Residency Visas. Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | Golden Visa | Standard Residency Visa |
| Duration | 5 or 10 years, renewable | Usually 1 or 2 years, renewable |
| Sponsorship Requirement | No local sponsor needed; visa is self-sponsored | Requires a UAE national sponsor or employer |
| Eligibility | Investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, healthcare workers, outstanding students, and specialized talents | Employees, family members sponsored by residents or companies |
| Family Sponsorship | Can sponsor spouse, children (including adult students), and dependent parents | Can sponsor spouse and children, but rules vary; limited to immediate family |
| Travel Flexibility | Multiple entry and exit allowed without visa expiry worries | May have restrictions; re-entry must be within visa validity |
| Minimum Stay Requirement | No minimum stay required to maintain residency | Must meet residency requirements (usually 6 months to 1 year) |
| Benefits | Long-term security, business freedom, easier access to services | Shorter-term stay, dependent on employer or sponsor |
| Renewal Process | Simplified renewal if eligibility maintained | Renewal requires employer or sponsor involvement |
The UAE Golden Visa is ideal for those seeking long-term security, independence, and flexibility, while standard residency visas work well for shorter-term or employment-based stays.
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