The UAE Golden Visa has quickly become a popular option for foreign nationals to invest in a stable economy with various investment pathways. One of the biggest nations taking advantage of the recently reduced eligibility requirements and UAE Golden Visa expanded categories is Pakistan.

As the second largest foreign national community in the UAE, Pakistani citizens should know everything about the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani citizens to help you in your journey to one of the leading nations in the world.

In this guide you will learn about:

What is the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani citizens?

UAE citizenship by exceptional meritThe UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that enables foreign nationals to reside in the UAE for five to ten years. The program is specifically designed for foreign investors, exceptional talents, and academics to further the UAE economy of future innovation.

There is no specific UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani citizens. The program invites all nationalities to apply. However, Pakistani citizens are the second largest foreign community in the UAE after Indians.

The UAE is a very popular option for Pakistani citizens looking for business opportunities, economic stability, and fantastic quality of life, so understanding what is required and the various pathways is essential.

UAE Golden Visa Benefits for Pakistani Citizens

GCS Icon HandshakeBusiness opportunities

One of the biggest benefits to the program is that investors and entrepreneurs can benefit from the strategic location of the UAE. Situated between Asia and Europe, the business potential is endless for Pakistani investors.

GSC Icon WorkerSafety

The UAE is one of the safest countries in the world. There are strict laws, deterring serious and petty crime. This is one of the main draws for Pakistani citizens who want to live in the UAE.

GCS-ICONS-46Economic stability

The UAE economy is known globally for being extremely stable. This makes the country very appealing for Pakistani investors. Additionally, with options like the UAE Golden Visa, investing in the country is becoming easier and more accessible.

GCS Icon FamilyFamily sponsorships

The UAE Golden Visa invites applicants to include their immediate family members. This grants spouses, children, and dependents parents the opportunity to enjoy the fantastic healthcare, education, and high quality of life in the country. As family is such an integral part of Pakistani life, this is an important consideration for the UAE Golden Visa.

GCS Icon Real EstateWorld class infrastructure

Applicants can enjoy the incredible healthcare and education systems in the UAE. There are exceptional international schools and private healthcare facilities, inviting Pakistani nationals to savor the very best of UAE living.

Eligibility Criteria for the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani Citizens

For Pakistani citizens to apply for the UAE Golden Visa, they must meet certain basic eligibility criteria, including:

  • Applicants must be non-UAE nationals.
  • The main applicant must be at least 18 years old.
  • The main applicant must be able to demonstrate the legality of their income based on the specific visa category.
  • A clean criminal record is required.
  • Applicants must have valid health insurance approved by UAE authorities.
  • Applicants must be in good health and free from communicable diseases.
  • Applicants should not have any outstanding debts in the UAE, as this could affect their eligibility for residency.

Important note: The UAE Golden Visa does not grant UAE citizenship. Additionally, each residency category has its own set of eligibility requirements, so it is crucial to understand the specific criteria for your application before applying.

UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani Investors

Real estate investment

The UAE’s Golden Visa is open to Pakistani citizens who want to invest in UAE real estate. To qualify, real estate investors must purchase a property valued at AED 2 million (PKR 151,456,580).

There are various property types on the mainland available, including:

  • Commercial
  • Residential
  • Land

There is no minimum down payment requirement, making this a popular option for potential investors.

To qualify for the UAE Golden Visa through real estate, Pakistani citizens 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 (Example: UAE Central Bank).

Important to note: There are some additional requirements in specific Emirates, including:

  • Abu Dhabi: Investors must prove a monthly income of AED 10,000 (PKR 757,282.90) and show that the property is ready for living.
  • Dubai: For the Dubai Golden Visa, applicants can invest in off-plan or under-construction properties, provided they purchase through a government-approved developer. Additionally, the Dubai Golden Visa requirements stipulate that applicants must retain the qualifying investment for a minimum of three years.

Public investment

Pakistani investors can obtain a UAE Golden Visa through a public investment in either a company or an investment fund. The options are as follows:

  • Submit a Federal Tax Authority Letter: Present a document confirming an annual contribution of at least AED 250,000 to the UAE government through taxes such as corporate tax, VAT, or other applicable levies.
  • Deposit Funds in a UAE Bank: Make a fixed deposit of AED 2 million in a UAE-based bank.
  • Invest in a Government-Approved Fund: Allocate AED 2 million to an investment fund approved by the UAE government.
  • Hold Shares in a UAE Company: Own or invest in a UAE-based company with a valuation of at least AED 2 million.

Pakistani applicants seeking to obtain 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 Pakistani Entrepreneurs

caribbean countries offer citizenship by investment programmesThe Entrepreneur Visa, a sub-category of the UAE Golden Visa program, is available to founders, owners, partners, and executives of innovative startup projects. Applicants must meet the criteria of one of these categories:

  • Innovative Idea Owners: Pakistanis with groundbreaking project concepts approved by accredited business incubators or relevant authorities, with plans to launch the project in the UAE.
  • Successful Entrepreneurs: Pakistani creators of tech-driven or innovative projects in the UAE with a minimum capital investment of AED 500,000.
  • SME Owners or Partners: Entrepreneurs from Pakistan owning or partnering in a UAE-based SME generating at least AED 1 million in annual revenue.
  • Pioneering Project Founders: Pakistani citizens who have founded and sold innovative projects for no less than AED 7 million, either within or outside the UAE.

Important to note: To qualify for a Golden Visa UAE, Pakistani 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 from Pakistan include doctors, scientists, creative individuals in culture and art, inventors, executives, 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:

  • Advanced Degree Holders: Pakistani citizens with a PhD or Master’s degree in engineering, technology, life sciences, or natural sciences from top international universities, showcasing significant research accomplishments.
  • Highly Skilled Professionals: Workers classified under the first or second professional tier by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization, holding a UAE-based employment contract with a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000.

Requirements: Pakistani applicants are required to verify their academic qualifications through accredited certifications. For specific professions, such as healthcare, a recommendation letter from a relevant authority, such as the UAE Ministry of Health, may also be necessary. Additionally, a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000 may apply to subcategories, including skilled workers, executive managers, and business or 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.
  • Pakistani applicants who have obtained an average rate of at least 95% in the UAE high school certificate.

Requirements: High school graduates are required to secure a recommendation from the Ministry of Education or an appropriate authority, such as the Knowledge and Human Development Authority. University graduates must submit their application within two years of graduation and provide a copy of their degree, accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education or a similar 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.

Step by Step Process for Pakistani Citizens to Get the Golden Visa

uae health care exampleObtaining a UAE Golden Visa as a Pakistani citizen requires a step-by-step process to ensure you have everything in order before applying.

  1. Step One: Ensure eligibility: Before anything, it’s essential to ensure you meet all the requirements, including criminal checks, investment funding, medical insurance etc.
  2. Step two: Select the investment option: The UAE Golden Visa offers a wide range of investment opportunities. It’s best to speak with an immigration specialist at this stage to ensure you are selecting the correct option for your needs.
  3. Step three: Gather required documents: Before you begin filling in the application, ensure that you have all the required documents on hand. Sending an incomplete application can lead to costly delays.
  4. Step four: Make the investment: At this stage you can send in your application along with proof of your investment. Ensure you pay the relevant fees and send through the completed application forms.
  5. Step five: Submit biometrics and medical fitness tests: To obtain the UAE Golden Visa as a Pakistani citizen you need to submit your biometric information. You will also need to attend all medical fitness tests.
  6. Step six: Obtain approval: Once all the above criteria have been met you may receive your UAE Golden Visa approval.

UAE Golden Visa Document Requirements

There are various UAE Golden Visa requirements depending on the chosen investment route. Here are the basic documents Pakistani citizens are required to provide for the UAE Golden Visa:

  • A recent color passport-sized photograph.
  • A valid passport copy with at least six months of remaining validity.
  • Proof of family relationships, such as marriage certificates for spouses or birth certificates for children.
  • Valid UAE health insurance for the main applicant and any accompanying family members.
  • A copy of an Emirates ID card (if applicable).
  • A copy of a current UAE residence visa (if applicable).

Cost of the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani Citizens

The cost of the UAE Golden Visa depends on the chosen residency pathway. For instance, the fees for a 10-year Golden Visa will differ from those for a 5-year visa. Below is an overview of the typical expenses that most Pakistani applicants encounter 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 

Processing Time for the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani Citizens

The processing time for the UAE Golden Visa can vary. For example, if you are using an immigration specialist or lawyer the time may be reduced as they will ensure the application is completed in full, with the in-depth knowledge of what is required. Generally, the UAE Golden Visa can be processed in about seven to ten working days.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani Citizens

What is the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani citizens?

The UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani citizens is a long term residence visa allowing entrepreneurs, investors, top students, exceptional talents, scientists, and humanitarian pioneers to study, live, and work in the UAE.

How can Pakistani citizens apply for the UAE Golden Visa?

Pakistani citizens can apply for the Golden Visa UAE by ensuring that they meet the criteria for their chosen pathway. Once they fulfill the requirements, pay the investment and fees, and submit a complete application they await approval

What are the eligibility requirements for the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani nationals?

There are various requirements based on the chosen pathway. However, here are the basic eligibility requirements for the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani nationals:

  • Be a non-UAE national
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Be able to demonstrate the legality of their income based on the specific visa category.
  • Hold a clean criminal record
  • Have valid health insurance approved by UAE authorities.
  • Be in good health and free from communicable diseases.
  • Not have any outstanding debts in the UAE

What investment options are available for Pakistani citizens to obtain the UAE Golden Visa?

There are a range of investment options available for Pakistani citizens to obtain the Golden Visa UAE including real estate, public investment, and startups.

Can Pakistani families be included in the UAE Golden Visa application?

Yes, the main applicant is free to include their families (dependents) on their UAE Golden Visa application.

What is the cost of the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani applicants?

The Golden Visa UAE price for Pakistani citizens will vary based on the investment pathway, visa duration, number of dependents, and assistance required. Generally, the application fees and administrative costs can be anywhere between AED 7,000- AED 15,000.

Can Pakistani professionals with specialized skills apply for the UAE Golden Visa?

Absolutely, Pakistani citizens that fall within the specialized skills category of the UAE Golden Visa are free to apply. This can include skilled professionals in medicine, technology, engineering, and other sought-after fields.

Are Pakistani celebrities or artists eligible for the UAE Golden Visa?

Yes, artists from Pakistan may be eligible for the UAE Golden Visa provided that they meet the eligibility criteria and have had a profound impact within their field.

How long is the UAE Golden Visa valid for Pakistani citizens?

The UAE Golden Visa varies, it is generally valid for either five or ten years for Golden Visa holders.

What are the benefits of the UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani nationals?

The Golden Visa UAE benefits include offering Pakistani citizens long-term residency, access to business and investment opportunities, and the ability to live, work, and study in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. It also provides stability for families, as dependents can be included, and offers tax advantages, including exemption from income tax.

What documents do Pakistani citizens need for the UAE Golden Visa application?

Document requirements for Pakistani citizens to apply for the Golden Visa UAE include:

  • Recent passport-sized photo with a white background
  • Valid passport with at least six months of validity
  • Proof of family relationships (e.g., marriage or birth certificates)
  • Valid UAE health insurance for the applicant and family
  • Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
  • Current UAE residence visa copy (if applicable)

What is the Dubai Golden Visa requirements for Pakistani citizens?

Pakistani citizens can apply for the Dubai Golden Visa if they meet specific criteria, such as investing in the UAE, holding a high-level job with a minimum salary of AED 30,000, or having exceptional talent in fields like technology, healthcare, or the arts. They must provide necessary documentation like proof of investment, employment, or qualifications. The visa is valid for 5 or 10 years and is renewable based on continued Golden Visa UAE eligibility.

What is the Dubai Golden Visa price in Pakistan?

The Golden Visa Dubai price in Pakistan depends on factors such as the investment route, visa duration, number of dependents, and any additional support needed. Typically, the application and administrative fees range from AED 7,000 (PKR 530,098) to AED 15,000 (PKR 113,592,4).