Golden Visa UAE Guide 2024

What is a UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa is a special long-term residency visa introduced in 2019, designed to attract and retain foreign talent, investors, and professionals who can contribute to the country’s economic development. Unlike typical UAE visas, which are generally tied to employment, the Golden Visa offers selected foreigners the chance to live, work, and study in the UAE independently of a job sponsor. Available in 5 and 10-year renewable options, this long-term visa grants holders and their families a level of security and stability uncommon with other visa types in the region.

The introduction of the UAE Golden Visa aligns with the government’s vision to build a thriving economy driven by skilled professionals and investors from around the world. With this visa, residents enjoy the benefits of extended stay, more freedom to start and own businesses, and the opportunity to establish a life in one of the UAE’s dynamic cities.

Advantages of UAE Golden Visa

Golden Visa holders enjoy numerous advantages that make this visa option attractive to a wide range of individuals:

• Extended residency period: Offering either a 5- or 10-year renewable period, this visa provides long-term residency, which is rare among visas in the region.
• Self-sponsorship: The Golden Visa allows individuals to sponsor their own residence, which means they don’t need a local sponsor to reside in the UAE. This gives significant freedom and autonomy to foreign residents.
• Family benefits: Golden Visa holders can sponsor their immediate family members, including spouses and children. Family members can also remain in the UAE if the primary visa holder dies during the visa period.
• Multiple entries: A six-month multiple-entry permit is given to applicants while their visa is being processed, allowing them to complete the visa requirements without interruption.
• Investment advantages: Visa holders can start businesses, invest in property, or acquire shares in UAE companies without the need for additional sponsorship.
• Tax exemptions: The UAE does not impose income tax on residents, making it a favorable destination for high-net-worth individuals and investors looking to retain more of their earnings.
• Economic security: With a long-term visa, residents have the security to pursue professional, educational, and investment opportunities without needing to renew frequently or worry about sudden visa cancellations.

Downsides of UAE Golden Visa

While the Golden Visa offers attractive benefits, it does come with certain limitations:

• Significant financial requirements: Meeting the eligibility requirements for the Golden Visa UAE often involves considerable financial commitments, such as a minimum property investment of AED 2 million for real estate investors.
• No path to citizenship: Although the Golden Visa grants long-term residency, it does not lead to citizenship, and the UAE maintains a strict policy on naturalization.
• Complex application process: The application requires extensive documentation and verification, which can be time-consuming and may require additional expenses.
• High fees: This elite visa can have higher associated fees compared to other UAE visas. While the benefits of this visa are substantial, it may not be financially viable for everyone due to the costs involved in both applying for and maintaining the visa.

Who can apply for UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa is available to specific categories, each with defined criteria. Below are the primary categories of eligibility and what each entails:

1. Business owners and entrepreneurs

2. Investors

• Public investment fund investors
• Real estate investors

3. Outstanding specialized talents

• Doctors and scientists
• Inventors
• Creative people in culture and art
• CEOs or managing directors
• Athletes
• Specialists in engineering and science

4. Outstanding students and graduates

• High school students
• University students
• Outstanding students of foreign universities

5. Digital content creators and game developers

6. Pioneers of humanitarian work

7. Frontline heroes

Golden Visa UAE requirements

The requirements for obtaining a Golden Visa in the UAE vary based on the type of residence, whether it's for investors, talent, entrepreneurs, and others. Here are the specific criteria for each category.

Business owners and entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs who have an economic project of a technical or innovative nature can obtain a 5-year Golden Visa if they meet the following criteria:

• Possessing an approval letter from an auditor in the UAE confirming the project's value is not less than AED 500,000.
• Obtaining approval from the authorities in the respective emirate confirming the project's technical or innovative nature.
• Receiving accreditation from an approved business incubator in the UAE to establish the proposed activity in the country.

Investors

Public investment fund investors

Investors who put their money in an investment fund can be granted a 10-year Golden Visa without a sponsor if they meet one of the following conditions:

• Submit a letter from a UAE-accredited investment fund confirming a deposit of AED 2 million. 
• Submit a valid commercial or industrial license and a memorandum of association stating a capital investment of at least AED two million.
• Provide a letter from the Federal Tax Authority stating an annual payment to the government of not less than AED 250,000.

Note that the license should be issued by the Emirate of Dubai. If it is issued by a free zone or a special development zone, a To Whom It May Concern Certificate is required from the relevant free zone.

Additional requirements for investors include:

• Full ownership of the invested capital (not a loan).
• Proof of medical insurance for themselves and their family.

Real estate investors

Individuals who own one or more properties can obtain a 10-year Golden Visa, renewable under the same conditions and without a sponsor if they meet the following requirements:

• Submit a letter from the land department of the respective emirate confirming ownership of properties valued at a minimum of AED 2 million (545,000 USD).
• Starting in 2024, a real estate investor is eligible to take a mortgage from specific local banks approved by the relevant local entity, regardless of the down payment amount.

Previously, there was a requirement to pay 50% of the minimum property value (AED 1 million) to qualify for the Golden Visa. This condition has now been eliminated, making stigeous visa more accessible for property investors.

Outstanding specialized talents

The category of outstanding specialized talents includes professionals such as doctors, scientists, creative individuals in culture and art, inventors, executives, scientific specialists, athletes, and specialists in engineering and science.

Here is the list of subcategories with their specific requirements.

Doctors and scientists

Doctors must meet the following criteria:

• Having an approval letter from the Ministry of Health and Prevention in the UAE to practice medicine.
• Having proof of a basic salary of no less than 30,000 AED for the same profession. It can be a salary certificate if it is a free zone or a labor contract from an LLC company on the mainland.

Scientists need a recommendation letter from the Emirates Council of Scientists or the Secretariat of the Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence, confirming the award of the Medal of Scientific Excellence.

Inventors

Inventors must provide a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Economy, stating that their patent adds value to the country's economy.

Creative people in culture and art

Creative individuals in culture and art should obtain an approval letter from the Department of Culture and Arts in the respective emirate.

CEOs or managing directors

Your profession has to be one of the following: Manager - Executive Director - President of the Board of Directors. These categories of applicants must submit:

• A copy of a university degree accredited by the Ministry of Education, with a minimum educational attainment of a bachelor's degree.
• A letter of experience holding the same position for at least 5 years is required.
• A salary certificate indicating a minimum salary of AED 30,000, or a labor contract for the same amount in case of an LLC company.
• A valid work contract.
• A letter of no objection from the company he works for.

Athletes

Athletes need a recommendation letter from the General Sports Authority or one of the sports councils.

Specialists in Engineering and Science

Requirements for this category are the following:

• Specialists must provide a copy of a Bachelor's or Master's degree certified by the Ministry of Education, along with a work contract.
• The basic salary has to be no less than AED 30,000 as proved by the salary certificate (free zone) or the labor contract (LLC company).
• A letter of no objection from the company he works for is required.

Outstanding students and graduates

High school students

High school students can obtain a 5-year Golden Visa without a sponsor if they meet the following criteria:

• Achieving national-level excellence (minimum grade of 95 percent in public or private secondary school).
• Having a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education (Emirates Schools Establishment).

The duration of the Golden Visa for students can be extended if enrolled in majors or colleges requiring a study period exceeding five years.

University students

Outstanding university students can obtain a 10-year Golden Visa without a sponsor if they meet the following conditions:

• The university must be rated either A or B class by the Ministry of Education.
• Submit a recommendation letter from the university, an accredited graduation certificate, or an accredited academic record stating a cumulative GPA of not less than 3.5 for A class universities and 3.8 for B class universities.
• It must not exceed two years since graduation.

Outstanding students of foreign universities

Outstanding students who graduated from foreign universities can obtain a 10-year Golden Visa without a sponsor if they meet the following criteria:

• The university must be among the top 100 globally according to a rating system recognized by the Ministry of Education.
• Maintain a cumulative GPA of not less than 3.5.
• It must not exceed two years since graduation.
• The graduation certificate must be accredited by the Ministry of Education.

Digital content creators and game developers

The Dubai Government has launched the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 to attract professional and talented gamers, as well as game developers and digital product creators. Entrepreneurs and startups in the gaming industry are provided with everything they need to grow: state-of-the-art infrastructure, networking and collaboration opportunities, educational programs, and specialized events.

Participants in the program can apply for a long-term 10-year Golden Visa.

Requirements for obtaining this visa in the gaming industry:

• Age of 25 or older
• Documents proving qualifications and experience in the gaming industry
• A detailed business plan and proof of share capital in the case of starting a company

Free zones in Dubai where gaming companies can be registered and qualify for the Golden Visa:

• DMCC
• Dubai Internet City
• Meydan
• Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Center

Pioneers of humanitarian work

Pioneers of humanitarian work are eligible for a 10-year Golden Visa if they fall into one of the following categories:

• Members and outstanding employees who have worked for international and regional organizations for a minimum of five years.
• Members and outstanding employees who have worked for civil associations and public interest institutions for a minimum of five years.
• Individuals who have received an appreciation award from a local, regional, or international organization focusing on humanitarian work.
• Funders of humanitarian work, provided the support value is not less than two million UAE dirhams or its equivalent.

Frontline heroes

Frontline heroes who have demonstrated exceptional efforts during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can be eligible for the Golden Visa with a recommendation from a competent authority. Frontline heroes include:

• Nurses
• Medical assistants
• Lab technicians
• Pharmacologists
• Other approved cadres by the Frontline Heroes Office.

Basic UAE Golden Visa requirements

There are basic requirements that must be satisfied to qualify for a Golden Visa UAE. These include:

• Valid passport: A valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration is mandatory to apply.
• Clean criminal record: Applicants must maintain a spotless criminal history, free from offenses, to be considered eligible for this visa.
• Residency status: For those already residing in the UAE, holding a valid residency visa is a prerequisite for eligibility.
• Health insurance: Health insurance coverage in the UAE is essential, ensuring visa holders have access to necessary medical care.

Application process for UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa application process involves several key steps:

1. Choose your category. Select the desired visa category, such as investors, real estate investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, students, humanitarian pioneers, or frontline heroes.
2. Gather the required documents. Collect all necessary documents specified by the UAE government for your chosen category, including investment or property-related documents, recommendation letters, academic records, or proof of achievements.
3. Visit an Amer office. Go to an Amer office, a designated government service center, with your prepared documents to initiate the application process.
4. Pay the fees. Submit the applicable fees associated with the Golden Visa application.
5. Await the approval. Wait for the approval process, which can take anywhere from 72 hours to 30 days, depending on your chosen category and other factors.
6. Cancel your current visa. If you have an existing residence visa, follow the procedures to cancel it before proceeding with the Golden Visa application.
7. Submit the application. Provide necessary details and submit your visa application, including passport information and additional required information.
8. Receive your Golden Visa. Once approved, the visa will be sent electronically, granting you the desired residency status.

If you want the process of applying for and securing your Golden Visa to be as hassle-free and quick as possible, consider using the advice and help of professional consultants in this field.

Costs and fees of Golden Visa UAE

The UAE Golden Visa fees vary based on the applicant's category and visa duration. Here’s a breakdown of costs and service fees for its 10-year version:

Emirates ID (10-year validity): AED 1,043

The Emirates ID is an essential identification card issued by the UAE government for all residents. This fee covers the cost of the ID card with a 10-year validity, including all processing and issuance charges.

Medical examination: AED 700

This fee is for a mandatory medical examination, which assesses your general health and screens for communicable diseases. This health assessment is required to confirm fitness for residency or employment in the UAE.

New visa application (10-year validity): AED 2,785.75

This fee applies to the Golden Visa application process, which provides a 10-year residency status. It includes application processing, visa stamping, and other related administrative fees.

Dubai Land Department fees (for property investors): AED 4,020

For property investors, this mandatory fee is directed to the Dubai Land Department to cover administrative expenses associated with real estate transactions, including property registration and official documentation.

Administrative fees: AED 1,100

This amount accounts for any additional administrative costs not covered by other specific fees. It encompasses processing expenses, document verifications, and other miscellaneous charges that may arise during the Golden Visa application procedure.

Total costs: AED 9,648.75

This total ensures full compliance with UAE residency requirements for Golden Visa holders.

Holders of this elite visa may also incur fees for visa renewals, which include the cost of another medical exam, Emirates ID renewal, and other processing fees. Also, consider the cost of UAE health insurance, with minimum basic coverage costing about 800 AED.

When you get your Golden Visa approved, you will have to cancel your current visa. The cancellation fee is 500 AED on average depending on the authority.

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FAQs

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa for investors, skilled professionals, and others who contribute to the UAE economy. It is available in 5- and 10-year options.

What are the benefits of the UAE Golden Visa?

• Extended validity: The Golden Visa offers a validity of 10 years, providing long-term residency in the UAE.
• Self-sponsorship: You are no longer reliant on an employer or company for sponsorship.
• No need to enter the UAE every 6 months to keep the visa valid.

How much is the UAE Golden Visa?

The total cost of a 10-year Golden Visa (Investor) is AED 9,648.75. This includes the following: new visa, Emirates ID, medical check, DLD fees, administrative fees.

How long does it take to process the UAE Golden Visa?

• Approval time: Eligible applicants can receive visa approval within a few days, with a minimum of 72 hours and a maximum of approximately one month.
• Additional procedures: After approval, medical check, Emirates ID, and visa stamping can be completed within a couple of days.

Who is eligible for UAE Golden Visas?

Find detailed information on the eligibility criteria and requirements in the “UAE Golden Visa requirements” section above. In short:

• Investors in the public sector
• Company owners and entrepreneurs
• Real estate investors
• CEOs and top managers
• Talented students
• Professional gamers and game developers
• High professionals like Engineers, Doctors, Athletes, PhD holders
• Pioneers of humanitarian work and frontline heroes

Can I sponsor my family if I get a UAE Golden Visa?

Yes, you can. After you receive your Golden Visa, you can initiate the application process for your dependents. Read more about family visas in our article UAE Family Visa Requirements.