What is the UAE Golden Visa?
It’s a 5- or 10-year renewable visa granted to individuals who make significant contributions to the UAE in specific sectors such as:
Investors
Entrepreneurs
Specialized talents
Researchers
Exceptional students
Frontline heroes
Cultural figures and creative professionals
✅ Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| 🗓️ Long-Term Residency | 5 or 10 years, renewable automatically |
| ❌ No Sponsor Required | Stay without employer or local sponsor |
| 🏢 100% Business Ownership | On mainland, without Emirati partner |
| 👨👩👧👦 Family Sponsorship | Sponsor spouse, children, and support staff |
| 🌍 Multiple Entry Permit | 6-month visa to complete Golden Visa formalities |
| 🎓 Study/Work Freedom | Beneficiaries and family can study/work in UAE |
| 🛂 Stay Outside UAE | Allowed to stay abroad for more than 6 months without visa cancellation |
👥 Who is Eligible for the Golden Visa?
Here are the major categories:
1. Investors
Real estate investors (property worth AED 2 million+)
Public investment (company/investment worth AED 2 million+)
2. Entrepreneurs
Founders/owners of successful UAE-based startups
Business valuation must be AED 500,000+ (varies)
3. Exceptional Talents
Scientists, doctors, engineers, artists, authors, etc.
Recommendation from a relevant UAE authority required
4. Outstanding Students
School toppers (95%+ in Grade 12 UAE schools)
University students with GPA ≥ 3.8
Must study in UAE or recognized international university
5. Skilled Professionals
Engineers, IT, healthcare, legal experts, educators, etc.
Monthly salary ≥ AED 30,000
Must have a degree and work contract in UAE
6. Scientists & Researchers
PhD or Master’s degree in engineering, tech, life sciences
Recommendation from Emirates Scientists Council or relevant body
7. Creative Professionals
Artists, designers, writers, media professionals
Recognition from UAE Ministry of Culture or similar body
8. Frontline Heroes
Medical and support staff who worked during the pandemic
📝 Required Documents (General)
Passport copy (valid 6+ months)
Emirates ID (if in UAE)
Valid UAE visa (if applying from within UAE)
Qualification certificates (attested)
Salary certificate or investment proof
Recommendation letters from recognized UAE bodies (as needed)
Medical and Emirates ID screening (after initial approval)
💵 Golden Visa Fees (Approximate)
| Visa Type | Duration | Fee (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Application Processing | — | 250–350 |
| Visa Issuance | 5 or 10 years | 2,800–3,800 (plus medical, typing, etc.) |
| Emirates ID | 5/10 years | AED 575–1,000 |
Fees vary slightly by emirate (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, etc.)
📍 How to Apply
Visit https://icp.gov.ae/ or https://gdrfad.gov.ae (Dubai applicants)
Choose “Golden Visa Services”
Fill out the online application
Upload supporting documents
Pay fees
Get entry permit (if applying from abroad)
Complete medical and biometric process
Receive Emirates ID and visa stamped
💬 FAQ
❓ Can Golden Visa holders work in the UAE?
Yes. They can work, open companies, or invest without needing a sponsor.
❓ Can I bring my family?
Yes. You can sponsor spouse, children (no age limit for unmarried daughters and sons up to 25), and domestic workers.
❓ What happens if I stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months?
Unlike regular visas, Golden Visa holders can stay abroad for more than 6 months without visa cancellation.