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
1. Long-term residency
The Golden Visa UAE grants 5 or 10 years of residency, so you won’t need to worry about frequent renewals. This makes it an ideal option for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and exceptional talents who want to establish a strong base in the UAE.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. 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.
12. 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.
Golden Visa UAE Eligibility
As you will come to see shortly, there are various pathways to obtain UAE residency with the Golden Visa. However, there are some basic eligibility 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.
UAE Golden Visa for Investors
Real estate investment
The UAE’s Golden Visa is open to those who want to invest in UAE real estate. To qualify for this investment opportunity, real estate investors must purchase a property valued at AED 2 million ($544,517).
The real estate investment option has quickly become one of the top ways to obtain the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani citizens.
The property can include residential, commercial, or land on the UAE mainland. There is no minimum down payment requirement.
Real estate investors must prove ownership of one or more properties in the UAE that is either owned or rented. The property must not be subject to any loans except those issued by a UAE-based bank.
Important to note: There are some additional UAE Golden Visa requirements in specific Emirates, including:
- Abu Dhabi: Investors must prove a stable monthly income of AED 10,000 and show that the property is ready for living.
- Dubai: For the Golden Visa Dubai, applicants can invest in under-construction or off-plan properties, as long as they buy through a government-approved developer. Additionally, Dubai golden visa requirements state that applicants must commit to maintaining the qualifying investment for at least three years.
Public investment
Investors can obtain a UAE Golden Visa through a public investment in either an investment fund or a company.
Eligibility criteria
- Invest in a UAE government approved investment fund: AED 2 million
- UAE bank deposit: Deposit AED 2 million
- Owning a company or a share in a UAE-based company: Company must be valued at a minimum of AED 2 million.
- Provide a letter from the Federal Tax Authority: Applicants must provide a letter from the Federal Tax Authority stating that the applicant contributes no less than AED 250,000 annually to the UAE government. This contribution can come from various sources, including corporate taxes, VAT, or other applicable taxes.
Applicants seeking to obtain UAE residency through public investment funds, purchasing a UAE-based company, or purchasing UAE-based company shares must prove that the capital used is not borrowed or mortgaged.
Additionally, the investment must be fully owned by the investor and applicants must commit to holding the investment for a minimum of two years, ensuring long-term engagement with the UAE’s growing economy.
UAE Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs
The Entrepreneur Visa is a sub-category of the UAE Golden Visa program issued to owners, founders, partners, and executive directors of leading innovative startup projects.
Eligibility criteria
Eligible applicants must fall into one of the following categories:
- Entrepreneurs with successful projects: Entrepreneurs who have launched an innovative or tech-based project (technical or future nature) in the United Arab Emirates with a minimum capital of AED 500,000.
- Owners of small to medium-sized enterprises: Owners or partners of an SME in the UAE that generates at least AED 1 million in annual revenue.
- Founders of pioneering projects: Founders of groundbreaking projects that have been sold for at least AED 7 million, either inside or outside the UAE.
- Owners of approved innovative ideas: Owners of innovative project ideas that have been approved by an accredited business incubator or relevant authorities, seeking to establish the project in the country.
Important to note: To qualify for a Dubai Golden Visa, entrepreneurs must obtain approval for their project from an accredited UAE-based business incubator (an institution that supports start-ups) or another specialized authority such as the Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security, or the Ministry of Economy.
UAE Golden Visa for Outstanding Specialized Talent
Exceptional Talents
Who qualifies
Inventors, innovators, and talents in vital fields such as culture, art, sports, and digital technology, regardless of educational qualification, employment status, monthly salary, or professional level. Outstanding specialized talents include doctors, scientists, creative individuals in culture and art, inventors, executives, content creators, specialists in scientific fields, athletes, doctoral degree holders, and specialists in engineering and science.
Requirements
A recommendation or approval from a federal authority or local government entity.
Scientists and professionals
Who qualifies
- PhD or Master’s degree holders in engineering, technology, life sciences, or natural sciences from top foreign universities, with substantial research achievements.
- Skilled labor classified in the first or second professional level approved by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization, with an employment contract in the UAE and a minimum salary of AED 30,000 per month.
Requirements
Applicants must prove their academic level through accredited certification and may need a recommendation approval letter from a relevant authority (e.g., healthcare professionals may require a recommendation from the UAE Ministry of Health). A minimum salary of AED 30,000 per month may apply for specific subcategories such as skilled workers, executive managers, and business and management specialists.
Outstanding students and graduates
Who qualifies
- Those with a GPA of at least 3.8 out of 4.0 from an accredited UAE university, or a GPA of at least 3.5 from a top 100 university worldwide.
- Applicants who have obtained an average rate of at least 95% in the UAE high school certificate.
Requirements
High school graduates must obtain a recommendation from the Ministry of Education or another relevant authority, such as the Knowledge and Human Development Authority. University graduates must apply within two years of graduation and provide a copy of the university degree accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education or another relevant authority.
Humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes
Who qualifies
Individuals with significant contributions to humanitarian efforts or service on the frontlines during emergencies.
Requirements
Individuals working in humanitarian and volunteer fields must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent to meet the basic application criteria.
UAE Residency for Family and Dependents
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.
Eligible dependents
Spouse
- The legally married husband or wife of the Golden Visa holder.
Children
- Biological, adopted, or stepchildren can be sponsored.
- Unmarried sons: Sponsorship is allowed up to the age of 24 if they are in full-time higher education and financially dependent on the parent.
- Daughters: There is no age limit for daughters as long as they are financially dependent on the Golden Visa holder.
- Children with disabilities: No age limit applies for sponsoring children with disabilities.
Eligibility criteria for sponsoring family 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
The Golden Visa UAE requirements can be extensive, particularly when looking at the document requirements. These will vary based on the UAE residency pathway, but 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).
Important to note: It is vital that applicants know which documents are required for their specific application to ensure the application is complete to avoid any delays.
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.
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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.
