The Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit in the UAE that allows skilled individuals to reside, work, or study in the country while receiving exclusive privileges. Eligible categories include investors, business owners, researchers, exceptional students and graduates, humanitarian contributors, and frontline professionals. Explore the criteria and perks of the Golden Visa and access online services to submit your application.
Understanding the UAE’s Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency scheme aimed at attracting global talent, investors, and skilled professionals. It offers a range of advantages, including:
- A six-month multiple-entry visa to begin the residency process
- A renewable residence permit valid for either 5 or 10 years
- No requirement for a local sponsor
- The ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children, regardless of age
- The right to sponsor an unlimited number of domestic staff
- Assurance that family members can continue living in the UAE until their visa expires, even if the main visa holder passes away
Eligibility for the UAE Golden Visa
The criteria for obtaining a Golden Visa in the UAE differ based on the applicant’s background—such as investors, entrepreneurs, or individuals with exceptional talent.
1. Investors in Public Assets
Applicants who invest in public funds may qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa without requiring a local sponsor. To be eligible, one of the following must be submitted:
- A letter from a UAE-approved investment fund confirming a deposit of at least AED 2 million
- A valid commercial or industrial license along with a memorandum of association showing capital investment of no less than AED 2 million
- A certificate from the Federal Tax Authority proving annual tax payments of at least AED 250,000
- The ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children, regardless of age
- The right to sponsor an unlimited number of domestic staff
- Assurance that family members can continue living in the UAE until their visa expires, even if the main visa holder passes away
Additional Conditions:
- The investor must fully own the capital (it must not be financed through loans)
- Proof of medical insurance coverage for the applicant and dependents is required
2. Real Estate Investment
Property owners may be granted a 5-year Golden Visa, renewable under the same terms and without needing a sponsor. Requirements include:
- An official letter from the Land Department of the relevant emirate confirming ownership of property or properties valued at AED 2 million or more
- If the property is mortgaged, it must be financed through a locally approved bank
3. Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs can apply for a 5-year Golden Visa if they own an innovative and future-oriented business project. The following documents must be provided:
- A financial audit report from a UAE-based auditor confirming the project is worth at least AED 500,000
- Approval from the concerned emirate confirming the project is in a future or technical field
- A letter from a recognized business incubator in the UAE supporting the business setup
4. Individuals with Specialized Skills
This category is open to highly qualified professionals and talented individuals across various sectors, including:
- Medical doctors
- Researchers and scientists
- Artists, writers, and cultural figures
- Inventors and innovators
- Senior executives
- Experts in scientific disciplines
- Athletes
- PhD holders
- Engineers and professionals in technology and science-related fields
Each field may have specific conditions or require approvals from relevant UAE bodies.