The Golden Visa UAE, also known as the Dubai Golden Visa, is a long-term residency program that offers foreign nationals the opportunity to reside in the UAE for five or ten years.
There are various pathways to obtain the UAE Golden Visa, including real estate, public investment, entrepreneurial endeavors, and falling under the exceptional merit subcategory. Investment amounts range from AED 500,000-AED 2 million.
Benefits of the Dubai Golden Visa include residing in a tax-free environment, access to top quality healthcare, freedom of travel, fantastic job opportunities, and access to a stable economy.
In this ultimate guide you will learn about:
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa, also known as the Dubai Golden Visa, is a long-term residency permit that allows foreign talents to live, work, or study in the UAE while accessing exclusive benefits. It is available to investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, exceptional students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline heroes, to name a few.
The Dubai Golden Visa is available for five or ten years of long term residency in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), providing a range of benefits. The long term duration allows applicants and their families to fully integrate into life in the UAE.
Top 12 UAE Golden Visa Benefits
- Long-term residency: The UAE Golden Visa grants a renewable 10-year residency, ensuring long-term stability for personal and professional growth. This extended stay enables individuals and their families to fully immerse themselves in the UAE’s dynamic community, gaining a deeper appreciation of local customs and traditions.
- Freedom to work and live in the UAE: The UAE Golden Visa does not require a local sponsor, meaning Dubai Golden Visa holders can live, work, and study in the UAE, providing freedom to explore the best career and lifestyle options.
- Tax-free income: There is no personal income tax in the United Arab Emirates, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings, making it financially attractive for investors.
- Bring your family: The Golden Visa Dubai allows you to sponsor your spouse and children, regardless of their age, so your loved ones can share in the UAE experience.
- Support with domestic help: UAE Golden Visa holders can sponsor as many domestic helpers as they need, such as nannies or drivers. This not only adds to daily comforts but also helps younger children integrate into UAE life.
- Access to top-quality healthcare: Healthcare in the UAE is fantastic, with various medical facilities throughout the country, making healthcare accessible for all. The United Arab Emirates offers a range of private and public healthcare services, along with affordable medical insurance for expats.
- Multiple entries allowed: One of the best Golden Visa UAE benefits is that applicants are entitled to multiple entries, so you can come and go freely without reapplying, making traveling across the globe easier.
- Stable economy: The United Arab Emirates has an extremely stable economy. It is one of the main reasons the country is such an attractive option for foreign investors. The UAE’s economy makes planning for your future much more reliable, while also providing peace of mind for future generations.
- Flexibility for travel: You can stay outside the UAE for extended periods without losing your residency status. The United Arab Emirates is also in the ideal location, between Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a strategic hub for travel and business. Its central location allows easy access to major global markets, with short flight times to key destinations in each region.
- Esaad privilege card benefits: The Esaad Card offers discounts at over 7,000 UAE businesses and in 92 countries worldwide, adding even more value to your UAE residency.
- Job opportunities: One of the main attractions of Dubai and the UAE is the abundance of job opportunities. With a thriving economy and continuous expansion across various sectors, the UAE offers diverse career prospects. Key industries include IT, blockchain development, healthcare, digital marketing, real estate, logistics, and renewable energy, among others.
- Expat friendly environment: The United Arab Emirates is one of the most expat friendly nations in the world. In fact, expats make up over 88% of the UAE population. The country is very open to expats with UAE residency, with a large English speaking population, a range of international schools, and thriving expat communities throughout the country, you will feel at home in no time.
Who can get the UAE Golden Visa?
There are various pathways to obtain a Golden Visa in the UAE, including:
- Investors: Real estate investors who purchase a property worth at least AED 2 million (approximately $545,000) or make significant public investments in investment funds or UAE companies or a bank deposit.
- Entrepreneurs: Founders of start-up companies registered as SMEs in the UAE with annual revenues of at least AED 1 million (approximately $270,000), or those who have sold their entrepreneurial project for over AED 7 million (approximately $1.9 million).
- Exceptional talents: Inventors, innovators, and talents in vital fields such as culture, art, sports, and digital technology, regardless of their educational qualification, employment status, monthly salary or professional level.
- Scientists and professionals: Individuals with specialized degrees or experience in fields such as medicine, engineering, science, research, and technology.
- Outstanding students and graduates: Top students and graduates from UAE universities and those with a GPA of at least 3.8 out of 4.0 or equivalent.
- Humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes: Individuals who have made significant humanitarian contributions or served on the frontlines during emergencies.
Golden Visa UAE Eligibility
There are various pathways to obtain UAE residency with the Golden Visa, each with eligibility criteria. However, there are some basic criteria that must be met before applying, including:
- Must be a non-UAE national
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have a legal source of income, depending on the visa category
- Must have a clean criminal record
- Must have valid medical insurance that is approved by UAE authorities.
- Must be in good health with no communicable diseases, verified by a medical fitness certificate.
- Applicants should not have any outstanding debts in the UAE, as this may affect their eligibility for residency.
Important to note: The UAE Golden Visa does not offer UAE citizenship. Additionally, each residency pathway will have its own eligibility criteria, it’s essential to understand what is required for your application before applying.
Sponsoring Family and Dependents in the UAE
The UAE Golden Visa allows holders to sponsor eligible family members and dependents, ensuring stability and support for their loved ones. Here’s an overview of who can be sponsored.
- Spouse: Legally married husband or wife of the Golden Visa holder.
- Biological, adopted, or stepchildren: Can be sponsored as dependents.
- Unmarried sons: Can be sponsored up to age 24 if in full-time higher education and financially dependent.
- Daughters: No age limit, as long as financially dependent.
- Children with disabilities: No age limit for sponsorship.
- Parents and parents-in-law: Can be sponsored for 10 years if over 60 years old and have no independent income.
- Grandparents: Can be sponsored regardless of age.
- Siblings: Not eligible for sponsorship.
- Domestic helpers: Golden Visa holders can sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers (maids, nannies, drivers, etc.). A valid passport, employment contract, medical fitness certificate, and health insurance are required.
Requirements to sponsor dependents in the UAE
To sponsor dependents, the UAE Golden Visa holder must:
- Ensure they have a valid Golden Visa
- Meet the income requirements (currently AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 plus accommodation)
- Provide required documents like passport copies, marriage/birth certificates, employment contracts, etc.
- Apply through the relevant authority (GDRFA in Dubai, DED in Abu Dhabi)
- Pay the applicable visa fees
UAE Golden Visa Document Requirements
Here are some basic documents required for all applicants:
- A valid passport with at least six months validity.
- A recent passport-sized color photo with a white background.
- Valid health insurance for the applicant and their family members.
- Proof of family relationships (birth certificates, marriage certificates).
- A current UAE residence permit (if applicable).
- An Emirates ID card copy (if applicable).
UAE Golden Visa 2025 Application Process: Step by Step
The process of applying for the UAE Golden Visa may vary depending on the pathway chosen. However, these are the basic steps for the application process:
- Check eligibility: Review the criteria for the Golden Visa to ensure you qualify, such as being an investor, entrepreneur, scientist, or exceptional talent. Working with an immigration specialist here can help to identify which category best suits your needs.
- Prepare documentation: Gather necessary documents like proof of achievements, educational qualifications, and professional certifications. Please note, documents may need to be translated and notarized at this point.
- Submit application: Apply online through official government portals (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) or at authorized service centers.
- Pay fees: Submit your documents and pay the applicable visa fees as part of the application.
- Complete medical and biometric testing: Undergo a medical fitness test and biometric registration in the UAE. You will be given a six month entry visa to enter to pass these requirements, as well as look into your investment options if this is your chosen pathway.
- Await approval: The process usually takes 7-10 business days.
- Receive Golden Visa: Once approved, the UAE residency permit will be issued.
- Apply for Emirates ID: After receiving the visa, apply for your Emirates ID with biometric verification.
Golden Visa UAE Price
The UAE Golden Visa cost varies based on the residency pathway. For example, the 10-year Golden Visa UAE cost will differ to the five-year visa. However, here are some of the various costs that most applicants will incur during the UAE Golden Visa application process:
Visa application fee | Approximately AED 2,656.75 for the residency permit |
UAE ID application fee | Approximately AED 1,153 for a 10-year Emirates ID |
Medical examination fee | Approximately AED 700 for the medical fitness test |
Administrative processing fee | Approximately AED 1,155 |
Land department fee | Approximately AED 4,020 |
Consular legalization | Approximately AED 1,000 (around $272) per person |
Family residence permit fee (if applicable) | Approximately AED 5,668.50 for each dependent for a 10-year residency |
Family sponsorship file opening fee (if applicable) | Approximately AED 318.75 |
How long does it take to get the Dubai Golden Visa?
Dubai Golden Visa processing time is generally around 30 days, depending on whether the application is complete. A full and complete application with all the required documents may be processed in as little as 7-10 days.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
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We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Golden Visa UAE
What is The UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa, also known as the Dubai Golden Visa, is a long-term residency program introduced by the UAE government to attract investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and talent from around the world. It grants residency for 5 or 10 years. The program provides individuals with the opportunity to live, work, and invest in the country while benefiting from the UAE’s robust infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and high quality of life.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Golden Visa in the UAE?
- Applicants must be non-UAE nationals, and the main applicant must be over 18.
- Proof of legal income is required depending on the visa category.
- A clean criminal record is mandatory in both the UAE and home country.
- Valid health insurance approved by UAE authorities is necessary.
- Applicants must be in good health and free of communicable diseases.
- No outstanding debts in the UAE, as this may impact eligibility.
Who is eligible for the Dubai Golden Visa?
The following are eligible for the Dubai Golden Visa:
- Investors and real estate developers
- Entrepreneurs
- Skilled professionals in key industries such as healthcare, science, technology, research, and education
- Exceptional talents in arts, sports, and business
- Individuals with advanced academic qualifications or notable achievements in their field
What are the Golden Visa UAE benefits?
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa 2025 include:
- Long-term residency
- Owning property without a local sponsor.
- Freedom to work and live without restrictions.
- No sponsor needed
- Access to world class education and healthcare
- Fantastic business opportunities
- Tax advantages
- Visa-free access to 179 countries
- Family sponsorship.
- Security and stability
What are the disadvantages of Golden Visa UAE?
The UAE Golden Visa does have a few disadvantages, including a high financial investment, strict rules and regulations to maintain compliance, and no direct pathway to citizenship.
What are the UAE Golden Visa new rules?
The UAE recently implemented new rules to its Golden Visa program, making it more accessible. The visa categories have opened up to include more people, family sponsorship is more flexible, and the minimum investment amounts have changed.
Are there salary requirements for Golden Visa UAE in 2025?
A minimum monthly salary requirement of AED 30,000 may apply for specific subcategories, including skilled workers, executive managers, and business and management specialists.
How much does UAE Golden Visa cost?
The cost of a UAE Golden Visa varies between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000, depending on factors such as the validity period and eligibility requirements.
Is there UAE Citizenship by Investment?
No, there is no UAE Citizenship by Investment program. There is also no Citizenship by Investment in Dubai. The only way to obtain citizenship through an investment in the UAE is to invest and live in the country for 30 years and become a citizen through naturalization.
What are the Dubai Golden Visa requirements?
The Dubai Golden Visa requirements vary by category but generally include:
- Investors: Investing in real estate (minimum AED 2 million) or business sectors like technology and healthcare.
- Entrepreneurs: Own a successful business or startup contributing to the economy.
- Skilled professionals: Be highly qualified in fields like medicine, engineering, or technology.
- Exceptional talent: Show global recognition or achievements in science, arts, or sports.
- Academics and researchers: Hold advanced degrees in strategic fields like STEM.
- Medical professionals: Work in high-demand areas like medicine or biotechnology.
- Real estate developers: Contribute to Dubai’s infrastructure with large-scale projects.
How much money is required for a Golden Visa in Dubai?
The amount required for a Dubai Golden Visa varies by category. For real estate investors, the minimum investment is typically AED 2 million. For entrepreneurs, investments in businesses or startups, or contributions to specific sectors may also qualify. Other applicants, such as skilled professionals and exceptional talents, may not have a specific financial requirement but must demonstrate substantial qualifications or achievements.
How do I apply for the UAE Golden Visa?
To apply for the UAE Golden Visa, you need to submit an application through the UAE’s official immigration portal or via authorized government entities. The process involves providing relevant documentation, including proof of investment, qualifications, work experience, or achievements, depending on your category. You must meet specific eligibility criteria and fulfill the necessary requirements for your application to be processed.
How long does it take to get the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa processing time is generally around 30 days, depending on whether the application is complete. A full and complete application with all the required documents may be processed in as little as 7-10 days.
Can I work in the UAE with a Golden Visa?
Yes, the UAE Golden Visa allows holders to work in the United Arab Emirates without the need for a local sponsor. This flexibility applies to both entrepreneurs and skilled professionals, offering them the freedom to work in the country without restrictions.
What industries are eligible for the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is available for individuals in various industries, including but not limited to:
- Healthcare and medicine
- Technology
- Business and finance
- Arts, culture, and sports
- Engineering and science
- Real estate development
- Education and research
Can my family benefit from the UAE Golden Visa?
Yes, you can sponsor your immediate family members, including your spouse, children, and parents, under the UAE Golden Visa. Family members will be able to live, work, and study in the UAE alongside the primary visa holder.
