The UAE Golden Visa
Unlock Exciting Benefits & Long-Lasting Residency!
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
- Extended Residency: The visa is renewable and can last up to 10 years, ensuring stability.
- Family Sponsorship: Allows sponsorship of family members and an unlimited number of domestic workers.
- Driving License: Driving licenses from 32 approved countries can be directly exchanged for a UAE license.
- Travel Freedom: Allows multiple entries and indefinite overseas stays without losing residency status.
- Business Ownership: Grants the right to own 100% of any business established in the UAE.
- Esaad Privilege Card: Provides the Esaad card for free, which includes various benefits and discounts.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa Dubai program, introduced in 2019, provides up to 10 years of residency for various groups including investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding students, and other specialized talents. This visa enables them to live, work, and study in the UAE independently and own their businesses on the mainland without a local sponsor.
Since October 2022, the UAE Resident Scheme has been updated to simplify access to Dubai’s Golden Residence Visa for more professionals. The program now includes experts, specialists, and those with exceptional skills.
UAE Golden Visa Eligibility
Basic Eligibility Criteria and Visa Tenure By Category
| Category | Visa Tenure | Basic Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Public Sector Investors | 10 years | Invest at least AED 2 million in accredited funds or own a commercial/industrial license with the same capital |
| Real Estate Investors | 10 years | Own property worth at least AED 2 million; mortgage financing is possible |
| Entrepreneurs | 5 years | Own a technical/innovative project valued at least AED 500,000; requires local endorsements |
| Doctors and Scientists | 10 years | Must have relevant approvals or recognitions from UAE health/science authorities |
| Inventors | 10 years | Need a recommendation from the Ministry of Economy for the patent |
| Artists | 10 years | Require approval from the Department of Culture and Arts in the respective emirate |
| Executive Directors | 10 years | University degree accredited by Ministry of Education, 5+ years in role, minimum salary of AED 50,000 |
| Athletes | 10 years | Recommendations needed from the General Sports Authority or local sports council |
| Engineers and Other Specialists | 10 years | Relevant degree and an approved work contract by the UAE Ministry of Education |
| High School Students | 5 years | Top national student with a minimum grade of 95% |
| University Students | 10 years | Graduated from a top-rated university with a high GPA, within two years of graduation |
| Humanitarian Pioneers | 10 years | Worked in recognized humanitarian organizations for at least 5 years or significant humanitarian funding |
| Frontline Heroes | 10 years | Recognized for exceptional services during crises with appropriate endorsements |
UAE Golden Visa Requirements
As per UAE Govt Portal, the requirements for obtaining a Golden Visa, including necessary documents and eligibility criteria, differ depending on the applicant’s category:
Investors
The UAE offers a unique renewable residency program for investors seeking a stable, long-term base without a local sponsor. It requires meeting specific financial thresholds to show significant investment and commitment to the UAE’s economy. [Requirements For Investors]
Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs leading innovative and future-oriented economic projects can obtain a renewable 5-year residency. [Requirements For Entrepreneurs]
Specialized Talent
A 10-year visa is available to individuals with outstanding specialized talents in fields such as medicine, science, culture, art, invention, executive leadership, athletics, and various scientific and engineering disciplines. Eligible engineering and science fields include epidemiology, virology, artificial intelligence, big data, and various branches of engineering like computer, electronic, software, electrical, and genetic biotechnology. Applicants must meet specific criteria for each category to qualify. [Requirements For Skilled Professionals]
Humanitarian Pioneers
If you lead in humanitarian efforts, you could qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa. This includes frontline heroes like nurses, medical assistants, lab technicians, and pharmacologists who showed exceptional dedication during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. [Requirements For Humanitarians]
Outstanding Students
High school students who are national-level toppers with a minimum of 95% in secondary school can get a 5-year residency. Outstanding university students may qualify for a 10-year residency, both without a sponsor. [Requirements For Students]
How to Apply for a Golden Visa in the UAE
Applying for a Golden Visa in the UAE involves three main steps:
- Apply for Nomination: The first step is to apply for a nomination through the Department of Economic Development (DED) or a government-approved free zone.
- Upload Documents: After receiving your nomination, upload your documents to the DED or Free Zone.
- Receive Visa: Once your documents are reviewed and your application is approved, you will receive your Golden Visa.
Required Documents
- Passport copy
- Residence visa copy
- Educational certificates
- Employment certificate (for business owners)
- Business registration documents (for business owners)
- Financial statements (for business owners)
What Is the Golden Visa UAE Cost?
The Golden Visa processing fee is 2,800 AED for most categories, except investors in land or the public sector. Additional costs include a medical exam (approximately 1,000 AED) and the Emirates ID fee.
5-Year Visa Cost
The starting cost for a 5-year Golden Visa is AED 2,800, but it may vary based on visa type and additional fees.
10-Year Visa Cost
The starting cost for a 10-year Golden Visa is AED 6,000, but it may vary based on visa type and additional fees.
Golden Visa Consultants in Dubai
How Smart Business Creation Can Help?
Smart Business Creation is renowned as one of the top business setup consultants in Dubai, with over 15 years of experience facilitating a wide range of businesses throughout the UAE. Our deep connections with government officials and key authorities, combined with our extensive expertise in consultancy, streamline the process of establishing your business in Dubai. Additionally, we offer comprehensive financial, legal, and corporate services to support our clients throughout their business endeavors.
We are here to provide comprehensive support for your Golden Visa application, from preparing your documents to completing the process. Connect with us now to begin your journey with a FREE consultation!
