How To Apply UAE Golden Visa

How to Qualify for the UAE Golden Visa: What is Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa offers long-term residency to eligible foreign nationals, providing them stability and exclusive benefits. It’s an opportunity for qualified individuals to build their future in the UAE.

The UAE Golden Visa is a special residency program that allows eligible individuals to stay in the country for up to 10 years. This initiative is designed to attract skilled talent, investors, and innovators.

Launched in 2019, the UAE Golden Visa was created to retain skilled professionals and drive economic growth. It also aims to strengthen the UAE as a global hub for business and innovation.

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa offers a range of exclusive perks to long-term residents, providing stability and unique opportunities. Here are some of the top benefits:

  • Long-term Residency: Secure a 5- or 10-year renewable visa.
  • Business Opportunities: Access to extensive investment and business options within the UAE.
  • Real Estate Ownership: Own property in the UAE with increased flexibility.
  • Family Sponsorship: Sponsor family members, including spouse, children, and household staff.
  • Access to Local Services: Ease in obtaining services such as health insurance and banking.
  • Employment Flexibility: Freedom to work, invest, or even start a business without a local sponsor.
  • Tax Benefits: Enjoy the UAE’s tax-friendly environment with no personal income tax.
  • Global Mobility: Simplified travel within the UAE and potential access to other GCC countries.

Eligibility Criteria for the UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa is available to various individuals who meet specific eligibility requirements. Below are the main categories with their detailed qualifications.

Real Estate Investors (5-Year Visa)

For those investing significantly in UAE real estate, the 5-year Golden Visa offers security and property ownership benefits.

  • Must own property with a minimum valuation of 2 million AED, showcasing a financial commitment to UAE real estate.
  • The property can be either fully owned or financed through a UAE local bank loan, enhancing investment flexibility.
  • A provisional approval letter from the Land Department is required to ensure the property meets visa standards.
  • Only completed and ready-to-move properties are eligible; off-plan properties do not qualify for this visa category.
  • Property investment must be maintained throughout the visa duration to retain eligibility and avoid revocation.

Investors in Public Investments (10-Year Visa)

This category supports individuals investing heavily in the UAE’s public funds, offering a long-term 10-year residency.

  • Requires an investment of 2 million AED in a recognized UAE public fund, underscoring commitment to the nation’s economy.
  • Investors must provide valid documentation, like a Commercial License or business registration, to confirm investment legitimacy.
  • A Federal Tax Authority letter is required to demonstrate a minimum annual tax payment of 250,000 AED, verifying financial activity.
  • Financial stability evidence, such as detailed bank statements, must show consistent fund availability and sufficient resources.
  • Proof of comprehensive medical insurance is mandatory to ensure the investor’s health coverage for the visa’s duration.

Exceptional Specialized Talents (10-Year Visa)

Individuals with specialized skills in specific fields can qualify, honoring their contributions to sectors like medicine, science, and the arts.

  • Eligible fields include science, medicine, technology, arts, sports, and executive management, reflecting the UAE’s diverse talent focus.
  • Scientists must acquire an approval letter from the Emirates Scientists Council, recognizing their scientific contributions.
  • Inventors need a specialized endorsement letter from the Ministry of Economy, to ensure innovation aligns with UAE standards.
  • Artists and creatives must obtain validation from the Department of Culture and Arts, to establish credibility in the arts sector.
  • Medical professionals and athletes need formal recognition from respective health and sports authorities to qualify under this category.

Outstanding Students

Outstanding students who excel academically can apply for long-term residency, encouraging UAE’s educational and talent development.

  • University Students: Must achieve a CGPA of 3.5 or higher from one of the top 100 global universities, and have graduated within two years.
  • High School Students: National-level top-ranking students with 95% or higher grades are eligible for a 5-year visa, promoting excellence.
  • Students can sponsor immediate family members, allowing family residency during their educational tenure in the UAE.
  • Graduates from top-ranking UAE universities with excellent CGPA are given priority under the Golden Visa scheme.
  • Additional eligibility for students includes scholarships or high achievements in international academic competitions.

Frontline Heroes

Recognizing their essential roles, frontline heroes who provided invaluable services during crises, like the pandemic, are eligible.

  • Medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, and pharmacists who provide exceptional service during emergencies are prioritized.
  • Lab technicians and healthcare specialists involved directly in crisis response qualify under the frontline heroes’ visa category.
  • Service during significant crises, including COVID-19, enhances eligibility due to the critical support they provide.
  • Applicants must secure an endorsement from a competent authority such as the Ministry of Health, verifying their contributions.
  • Essential workers in emergency response and crisis management sectors also qualify, reflecting the UAE’s support for their service.

Humanitarian Work Pioneers (10-Year Visa)

This visa honors those dedicated to humanitarian work, acknowledging long-term efforts in humanitarian organizations and aid sectors.

  • Employees with over 5 years of service in civil and international humanitarian organizations qualify for this visa type.
  • Donors contributing at least 2 million AED to recognized humanitarian causes are eligible, showing commitment to social welfare.
  • Individuals awarded for notable contributions in humanitarian fields by accredited organizations are given priority consideration.
  • Applicants must present documented proof of involvement in humanitarian activities or causes to meet visa criteria.
  • Endorsements from recognized humanitarian bodies or international NGOs add weight to the applicant’s qualifications for this visa.
Apply UAE Golden Visa

Application Process for the UAE Golden Visa

Applying for the UAE Golden Visa involves several steps to ensure eligibility and proper documentation. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  • Determine Eligibility – Check if you qualify based on the visa requirements for investors, professionals, students, or other categories.
  • Gather Required Documents – Prepare essential documents, such as property ownership records, financial statements, academic certificates, and approval letters from relevant authorities.
  • Submit Online Application – Apply through the official UAE immigration portal or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) website.
  • Pay Application Fees – Complete the payment for processing fees, which may vary based on visa type and category.
  • Document Verification – UAE authorities will review and verify all submitted documents to ensure authenticity and compliance with visa requirements.
  • Attend a Biometrics Appointment – Schedule a biometric screening if required, which may include fingerprinting and photo ID capture.
  • Medical Examination – Undergo a medical checkup as part of the UAE’s residency requirements to confirm health status.
  • Receive Visa Approval and Emirates ID – Upon approval, receive your UAE Golden Visa and Emirates ID, granting long-term residency and access to exclusive benefits.

Cost and Processing Time for the UAE Golden Visa

The cost and processing time for the UAE Golden Visa can vary depending on the application process and location. Here’s a breakdown of the costs and timeline:

Cost and Processing Time

CategoryCostDetails
Cost (Within UAE)2,800 AED to 3,800 AEDThe cost for applications within the UAE ranges between 2,800 AED and 3,800 AED.
Cost (Outside UAE)3,800 AED to 4,800 AEDApplications made from outside the UAE cost between 3,800 AED and 4,800 AED.
Visa FeesVariesAdditional fees may apply depending on visa type (e.g., investor, family, or professional).
Additional CostsVariesFees may include medical exams, biometric screening, or service charges from agents or agencies.
Processing Time30 daysThe total processing time is approximately 30 days. The application takes 48 hours, and the rest is spent on nomination approval.

Overall Conclusion

The UAE Golden Visa is an exceptional opportunity for individuals looking to secure long-term residency in one of the most dynamic countries in the world. It offers a range of benefits, from tax advantages to business opportunities, making it an attractive option for investors, professionals, and talented individuals.

With specific eligibility criteria, the application process is straightforward, and while costs may vary, the long-term advantages of securing a UAE Golden Visa are substantial. This visa program is a great way to contribute to the UAE’s economy while enjoying a high standard of living.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Individuals such as investors, specialized talents, entrepreneurs, outstanding students, and frontline heroes are eligible for the UAE Golden Visa.

The processing time is approximately 30 days, including nomination approval and document verification.

The cost typically ranges from 2,800 AED to 3,800 AED within the UAE, and 3,800 AED to 4,800 AED for applications outside the UAE.

Yes, the UAE Golden Visa allows holders to sponsor immediate family members, including spouses and children.

The visa offers long-term residency, tax benefits, business opportunities, property ownership, and access to healthcare and other services.

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