Secure Your Future In UAE!

Golden Visa UAE: A Definitive Guide

Anyone looking to live, work, or invest in the UAE long-term can benefit from the UAE Golden Visa. This special residency program offers extended stays and exclusive benefits, making it an ideal option for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and exceptional talents.

UAE Golden Visa: Your Gateway To Residency

Adnan Ahmed

The UAE has become an emerging business center full of innovation and a luxury lifestyle. People across the globe are directed towards the UAE for better opportunities. According to the GMI Team research, the total expat population of UAE in 2024 was 11.06 Million.

The Golden Visa UAE also contributes a great share in achieving this figure. The visa, introduced in 2019, is an innovative residency program that significantly promotes stable residency options for entrepreneurs and skilled individuals.

This visa is a permit and a gateway to living and working in the UAE. Significant updates to the program were made in October 2022, making it even more accessible. This article covers the UAE Golden Visa program, including its eligibility criteria, benefits, costs, and application process.

It also provides detailed information on how individuals can qualify for long-term residency through investments, real estate, entrepreneurship, or specialized talents. The visa experts at Now Consultant help you through every step of the UAE Golden Visa application process with accuracy and meet regulatory requirements.

What Is a UAE Golden Visa?

If you are looking for a long-term residency program in the UAE, the Golden Visa is the best option for you. This visa lets expats live, work, and study in the UAE without any sponsor. It attracts highly skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs who can contribute to the UAE’s prosperity and development.

In 2022, the Golden Visa investment threshold dropped. Now, applicants can qualify by buying off-plan properties or using mortgages. Holders can now spend more time outside the UAE. The removal of these restrictions offers greater flexibility.

The Golden Visa ensures greater autonomy and security than standard visas. The visa is first offered for 5 or 10 years. It is granted based on certain investments and advantages.

Advantages of UAE Golden Visa:

The Golden Visa holders can enjoy the following personal, professional, and financial advantages in the UAE:

1. Long-Term Residency

The Golden Visa provides long-term residency with a 5- or 10-year visa option. The visa holders do not need to renew it after a short period. This brings consistency for visa holders to live and work in the UAE

2. No Sponsor Required

The Golden Visa requires no national sponsor. This gives you full independence and freedom to manage your career or investments on your terms.

3. Family Sponsorship

Holders can sponsor their spouses, children, and parents for residency visas. This makes it easier to bring the entire family together under one roof.

4. Access to Healthcare and Education

Golden Visa holders enjoy access to world-class healthcare services and educational institutions. Children can approach excellent schools and universities, while families benefit from first-class medical care.

5. Tax-Free Benefits

The UAE’s tax policies favor residents, with exemptions from personal income, capital gains, and inheritance taxes. This makes it an ideal destination for high-earning professionals and businesses.

6. Financial Privileges

This special visa allows you to easily open local bank accounts in various currencies, including AED, dollars, and euros. It simplifies financial transactions, savings, and international transfers.

7. Driving License Eligibility

Golden Visa holders can apply for a UAE driver’s license or exchange their existing license in eligible countries. This eliminates common hurdles in obtaining a driving license in the UAE.

8. Esaad Discount Program

Visa holders can access Dubai’s Esaad program, which offers discounts and benefits across various sectors. From shopping to healthcare services, visa holders enjoy exclusive advantages in the UAE.

9. Flexibility to Travel

Golden Visa holders can enjoy travel flexibility. They can relocate to and from the UAE without any restrictions. There is no requirement to remain in the country for extended periods to maintain the visa.

10. Full Business Ownership

The visa permits holders to own 100% of their businesses in the UAE mainland. Entrepreneurs can set up businesses without needing a local partner.

11. Simple Application Process

Compared to traditional visas, the Golden Visa application process is simple. Applicants can easily apply if they meet the criteria for the Golden Visa.

Who Can Apply for a Golden Visa?

To qualify for the Golden Visa in the UAE, you must align with the UAE’s investment, specialized talents, or entrepreneurial requirements. The following are the eligibility criteria for a Golden Visa in the UAE:

1. Business Investors:

Applicants must invest at least AED 2 million in a business or company in the UAE. This can mean starting a new business, owning shares in a company, or showing a Federal Tax Authority letter. The letter must prove their business adds at least AED 250,000 a year to government revenues. The investment must not depend on loans.

2. Real Estate Investors:

Real estate investors need to own property valued at AED 2 million or more, as confirmed by the Real Estate Registration Department. The property must not be subject to loans. Applicants are also required to provide proof of housing, such as a homeownership document or rental contract.

3. Entrepreneurs and Startups:

Entrepreneurs with projects valued at a minimum of AED 500,000 can apply, supported by documentation from an approved UAE auditor. They must also obtain a support letter from relevant authorities stating that the projects are innovative or future-focused.

4. Specialized Talents:

This category includes doctors, engineers, scientists, and executives in advanced sectors like artificial intelligence and biotechnology. Applicants must provide evidence of qualifications, achievements, or significant contributions in their specialized fields.

5. Outstanding Students and Achievers:

Students with exceptional academic performance or recent graduates who have excelled are eligible. The program also acknowledges individuals who have earned global awards or recognition in areas like innovation, medicine, and the arts.

How Much Does the UAE Golden Visa Cost?

The cost of a Golden Visa varies with the chosen category of application and the associated requirements. The following are the costs involved for different applicants, with additional factors to consider:

For Investors:

Investors applying for a 10-year Golden Visa through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) must pay a total of AED 10,500. This includes fees for approval, a medical checkup, and the issuance of an Emirates ID.

For Professionals:

The total cost for professionals applying for the Golden Visa is approximately AED 15,500. It includes several mandatory fees. First, there is an approval fee of AED 2,710. Additionally, applicants must undergo a medical check, which costs AED 750. Finally, the issuance of an Emirates ID involves a fee of AED 1,185.

Applicants (investors and professionals) are required to have UAE health insurance as part of their Golden Visa application. The average cost ranges from AED 1,000 to AED 1500, depending on the level of coverage chosen.

Visa Cancellation Fee:

If you have a current visa in the UAE. You need to cancel the visa before your Golden Visa is processed. The cancellation fee is AED 500, although it may vary depending on the issuing authority.

Requirements For UAE Golden Visa:

The Golden Visa UAE has different eligibility criteria based on the category of applicants. Below are the requirements for each category:

General Requirements:

All applicants must meet the general requirements to qualify for the Golden Visa:

Provide appropriate documentation proving eligibility (e.g., property deeds, investment proofs, academic qualifications).
Maintain active health insurance throughout the duration of residency.
Pass the mandatory medical examination.
Submit a clean criminal record to comply with UAE safety standards.

Ensure all submitted documents are attested and meet UAE immigration rules.

1. For Investors In Public Sectors:

Investors in public sectors can obtain a 10-year visa by meeting the following requirements:

A letter confirming a deposit of AED 2 million in a UAE-accredited investment fund.
A commercial or industrial license showing a capital investment of at least AED 2 million.
Proof of paying AED 250,000 or more in annual government taxes.

Other requirements include owning 100% of the invested capital (not a loan) and providing medical insurance for themselves and their family.

For Real Estate Investors:

Property investors can acquire a 10-year visa if they fulfill the following requirements:

Own one or more properties valued at a minimum of AED 2 million.
Provide a letter of ownership from the land department in the respective emirate.
For real estate mortgages starting in 2024, investors can take loans from approved banks without needing a specific down payment.

2. Entrepreneurs:

Entrepreneurs must meet the following requirements for the Golden Visa:

Have a project worth at least AED 500,000, verified by an auditor.
Gain approval for a technically or innovatively inclined project from the relevant emirate’s authorities.

3. Specialized Talents

Individuals with specialized talents, such as doctors, scientists, and creatives, must meet specific criteria according to their profession:

Doctors & Scientists:

The doctors and scientists must meet the following requirements:

Approval to practice from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention.
Doctors must show a base salary of AED 30,000 or more.
Scientists require a recommendation from the Emirates Council of Scientists.

Inventors:

Inventors must have a recommendation from the Ministry of Economy confirming the patent benefits the UAE.

Artists & Creatives:

Artists and creatives need an approval letter from the Emirate’s Department of Culture and Arts.

Executives:

Executives need the following requirements for a Golden Visa:

Valid work contracts and experience letter of at least five years.
Salary proof of AED 30,000 or above.

Specialists in Engineering and Science:

The specialists in engineering and science need to provide the following proof:

Minimum Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (attested).
Confirmation of a base salary of AED 30,000 or above.

4. Outstanding Students:

There are two categories of students with different requirements:

High School Students:

National-level excellence with at least 95% grades.
A recommendation from the Ministry of Education.

Post-Graduate Students:

Graduation from top-ranking universities with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
Must apply within two years of graduation.

6. Game Developers and Gamers:

Professionals and entrepreneurs in gaming must meet the following requirements:

Age must be 25 or above.
Provide proof of gaming experience, qualifications, or a business plan for their venture.

7. Pioneers of Humanitarian Work

Applicants in this category must meet the following conditions:

Present five years or more experience with relevant humanitarian organizations.
Be recognized with an appreciation award or contribute financial support of at least AED 2 million to humanitarian work.

By understanding and meeting these requirements, applicants can simplify their Golden Visa process and take advantage of the UAE’s offerings.

How To Apply For Golden Visa In UAE?

In order to apply for the Golden Visa in the UAE, you need to follow the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Choose Category

In this step, you choose the specific category of Golden Visa. These options include business investors, real estate investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, students, and humanitarian pioneers.

Step 2: Collect Documents

Once you have chosen your category, you will collect all the required documents. The documents depend on your specific Golden Visa category, as discussed above. All the documents should be attested according to UAE immigration requirements.

Step 3: Visit an Amer Office

After preparing your documents, you visit an Amer office, a semi-government service center. Here, you start your application by submitting the required documents.

Step 4: Pay Fees

You must pay the Golden Visa’s associated fees when your documents are accepted at the Amer office. After fee submission, your application is formally entered into the review process in the next step.

Step 5: Wait for Application Approval

Following fee payment, the application enters the review stage. Your application will be reviewed by ICP or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), which may take 72 hours and 30 days, depending on your visa category.

Step 6: Cancel Your Current Visa

If you currently have any other residence visa, you should cancel it by following the official procedure. This is important for proceeding with the issuance of your Golden Visa in the final step.

Step 7: Submit Application

After canceling your existing visa, you submit your Golden Visa application by providing any additional details, such as passport information and other necessary data. After submission, the application is ready for the final decision in the next step.

Step 8: Receive a Golden Visa

Finally, upon approval, you secure your Golden Visa electronically. The visa grants your long-term residency in the UAE.

Investment Options for Golden Visa In UAE:

The following are the different investment options available for obtaining the UAE Golden Visa:

1. Public Sector Investments

You can easily qualify for a Golden Visa by investing in the public sector. For that purpose, you must meet one of the following conditions:

Deposit AED 2 million in a certified UAE investment fund.
Own a business with a capital of AED 2 million and submit relevant documentation, including licenses.
Present proof of AED 250,000 annual tax payment to the UAE authorities.

2. Real Estate Investments

Real estate investments are also suitable for getting a Golden Visa in the UAE. To qualify, you need to meet these conditions:

Own real estate property valued at a minimum of AED 2 million.
Confirmation from the emirate’s land department verifying ownership and valuation.

3. Investments by Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs who want to invest in innovation or technology projects can qualify for the Golden Visa. For that purpose, you need to have:

Undertake a project worth AED 500,000 with UAE auditor approval.
Obtain a letter from the relevant emirate confirming the business’s innovative nature.

4. Specialized Investment Options

The UAE supports specialized investment options for Golden Visa. It includes game developers, digital entrepreneurs, and humanitarian contributors.

New Rules for Golden Visa:

The UAE has introduced significant new rules to its Golden Visa program in 2025, making it more accessible for investors and entrepreneurs. The following are the updates on Golden Visa in the UAE:

1. Elimination of Minimum Down Payment

The new rules have changed the requirement of a minimum down payment of AED 1 million ($272,000) for property investments. This elimination simplifies the qualification process for investors getting the Golden Visa through property ownership.

2. Updated Qualification Standards

With the new regulations, real estate investors can secure a Golden Visa by owning a property valued at AED 2 million or more. The qualification now applies to all types of properties, whether they are off-plan, completed, or mortgaged.

3. 10-Year Residency Benefit

The Golden Visa offers a 10-year renewable residency, providing investors enough time to build their presence in the UAE. This extended duration facilitates the growth and management of investments.

Tips to Maintain Your Residency by Investment

After securing your UAE Golden Visa, it is important to stay compliant with its requirements to maintain your residency. The following are some important tips to maintain your residency by investment:

Spend Time Within The UAE:

To retain your residency, it is important to spend a significant amount of time in the UAE during the year, usually at least six months. This demonstrates your connection to the country and ensures your visa remains active.

Stay Updated With Regulations:

You should stay updated with the new regulations and changes to UAE Golden Visa rules. It is necessary to regularly review your property ownership details or other relevant records to ensure they are current and accurate.

Apply For Renewals:

When your Golden Visa approaches its expiration, you should apply for its renewal by meeting all the conditions and preparing all the required documents.

Request a Call Back!

How We Can Help You?

It may be difficult for you to complete the application for the UAE Golden Visa without expert guidance. Because it is a lengthy process with strict documentation, eligibility requirements, and investment conditions. Our experts at Now Consultant guide you through every step, ensuring your application is correct, complete, and meets all UAE regulations.

Whether you are investing in real estate or applying as a skilled professional, we help you avoid mistakes, penalties, and delays in the visa process. We also provide ongoing support, keeping your records up to date, managing renewals, and ensuring you meet residency requirements under this visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Minimum Salary Requirement For The Golden Visa?

The minimum salary requirement is different for each category. For example, specific categories like specialized talents may require proof of AED 30,000 or more monthly income.

Can I Get A Golden Visa By Investing In Real Estate?

Yes, you can get a Golden Visa when you own a property valued at AED 2 million or more, regardless of whether it is off-plan, completed, or mortgaged.

Does The Golden Visa Lead To UAE Citizenship?

No, the Golden Visa provides long-term residency but does not lead to UAE citizenship.

Yes, Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents for residency.

How Long Does It Take To Process A Golden Visa Application?

The application process for a Golden Visa takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the category and documentation.