Golden Visa UAE

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa issued for five or ten years, depending on the eligibility category. It was introduced to attract and retain talent, investors, and skilled professionals by offering a more stable and flexible residency status than standard two or three-year visas.

Golden Visa holders do not need a local sponsor or employer to maintain their residency. They can enter and exit the UAE freely without restrictions, sponsor family members including children of any age and parents, and in some cases sponsor domestic staff. The visa is renewable and does not require the holder to maintain a minimum number of days in the country under current regulations.

The programme is administered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), with property-related applications also processed through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) for Dubai-based real estate investors.

The Golden Visa covers several eligibility categories. Each has its own requirements, and the application path depends on which category the applicant qualifies under.

• Real estate investors: individuals who own property in the UAE valued at or above the minimum investment threshold set by current regulations
• Financial investors: individuals with qualifying deposits in UAE banks or investments in approved UAE-based investment funds
• Professionals and skilled workers: employed individuals earning a monthly salary at or above the minimum threshold, working in qualifying professional fields
• Entrepreneurs: individuals with approved entrepreneurial projects or business ventures
• Scientists and researchers: individuals with recognized scientific contributions
• Outstanding students and graduates: students and recent graduates meeting academic performance criteria
• Creative professionals: individuals recognized in culture, arts, or creative fields
• Healthcare workers, educators, and executives: categories expanded under recent programme updates

Eligibility criteria and category definitions are set by the UAE government and may be updated. Confirm your specific eligibility through an official channel or with a qualified consultant.

Step 1: Determine your eligible category. Review the categories and identify which one matches your qualifications, investment, employment, or professional status.

Step 2: Gather category-specific documents. Each category requires different supporting documents. See the requirements section below for a detailed breakdown.

Step 3: Apply through the relevant authority. Applications are submitted through ICP or GDRFA depending on the emirate. Property investors in Dubai may apply through the Dubai Land Department.

Step 4: Complete medical test and biometrics. Once the application is approved, complete the required medical fitness test and biometrics at an approved center.

Step 5: Receive your Golden Visa. After all steps are completed and approved, the Golden Visa is issued and stamped in your passport.

No sponsor requirement. Golden Visa holders are self-sponsored. There is no need for an employer or local sponsor to maintain the residency.

Family sponsorship with expanded scope. Under current regulations, Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children of any age (not limited to standard age restrictions), parents, and in some cases domestic staff.

Unlimited entry and exit. There is no minimum stay requirement under current Golden Visa rules. Holders can travel freely and maintain their UAE residency.

Abu Dhabi vs Dubai processing. The application process differs slightly depending on the emirate. Dubai applications are typically processed through GDRFA or DLD. Abu Dhabi applications are processed through the Abu Dhabi Residents Office (ADRO).

Category selection matters. Not all categories have the same requirements, costs, or processing timelines. Comparing categories before applying can save time and reduce the risk of applying under a less suitable path.