UAE Golden Visa: Long-Term Residency for Professionals, Investors, and Entrepreneurs
What Is The UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) without needing a national sponsor. Initially launched to attract talent and investors, the program has been expanded to include professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, and even students who show exceptional promise.
With durations ranging from 5 to 10 years, the Golden Visa offers a sense of stability and security to expats who wish to make the UAE their home. The visa is renewable and comes with various benefits tailored to different categories of applicants.
Recent Changes to the UAE Golden Visa Program
As of 2024, the UAE Golden Visa has seen several updates to make the program more accessible. Key changes include:
- Expanded Eligibility: The program now includes scientists, researchers, and top students.
- Faster Processing Times: With new automated processes, applicants can expect shorter waiting periods, from application submission to approval.
- Lower Investment Thresholds: Certain investment requirements have been lowered to encourage more foreign nationals to apply. For example, investors in specific sectors can now qualify with lower minimum investment amounts.
For more details on the recent updates, refer to the official UAE government portal.
Who Can Apply for the UAE Golden Visa??
The UAE Golden Visa program is open to various categories of individuals, each with unique eligibility requirements:
- Professionals: Highly skilled workers in fields such as engineering, medicine, IT, and education. Professionals must demonstrate outstanding achievements, typically verified through work history and academic qualifications.
- Investors: Individuals who make substantial investments in UAE real estate or business ventures. This category is ideal for those looking to capitalize on the UAE’s growing economy while securing long-term residency.
- Entrepreneurs: Business owners or founders of startups that have high growth potential. Entrepreneurs must prove that their business is operational in the UAE and contributes to the country’s economic development.
Why Choose the UAE Golden Visa?
- Long-Term Stability: Enjoy up to 10 years of residency with the option to renew. This visa offers a sense of security and stability, making it a great option for families and professionals who plan to settle in the UAE long-term.
- No National Sponsor Needed: Unlike other UAE visas, the Golden Visa eliminates the need for a local sponsor, offering more independence and freedom to those looking to build a life in the UAE.
- Family Benefits: The Golden Visa extends to spouses and children, providing a comprehensive package that ensures your loved ones are taken care of.
- Business & Investment Perks: Golden Visa holders enjoy access to exclusive business opportunities, including priority handling in governmental processes and access to lucrative investments in real estate and local markets.
Real-Life Success Stories
Sarah – A Tech Entrepreneur
Sarah relocated to Dubai after her startup gained traction in the Middle East. Applying for the UAE Golden Visa allowed her to scale her business and secure long-term residency for her family. “The Golden Visa gave us the stability we needed to grow without worrying about renewals every few years.”
Omar – An Investor
Omar invested in luxury real estate in Abu Dhabi. His decision to apply for the Golden Visa provided him with exclusive investment opportunities and allowed him to settle in the UAE without the hassle of renewing shorter visas.
Top 10 Celebrities Who Obtained the UAE Golden Visa
Cristiano Ronaldo (Football Star)
The legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the world’s most recognized athletes, was granted the UAE Golden Visa. His global fan base and regular visits to Dubai made him a prime candidate for this honor.
Fanbase: Over 500 million followers across social media.
Shah Rukh Khan (Bollywood Superstar)
Bollywood’s “King Khan” was one of the first Indian actors to receive the Golden Visa, recognizing his significant contribution to the film industry and his long-standing relationship with Dubai.
Fanbase: Estimated over 100 million fans globally.
Lionel Messi (Football Icon)
Like Ronaldo, Messi, another footballing giant, received the Golden Visa for his outstanding achievements and influence in the world of sports.
Fanbase: Over 450 million followers across social media.
Jacqueline Fernandez (Bollywood Actress)
This popular Bollywood actress, who has frequently visited the UAE for work and leisure, was awarded the Golden Visa for her contributions to the film industry.
Fanbase: Over 65 million followers on Instagram alone.
Salman Khan (Bollywood Actor)
Another Bollywood megastar, Salman Khan, received the UAE Golden Visa due to his immense popularity in the region and his contribution to cinema.
Fanbase: Over 150 million fans worldwide.
Ranveer Singh (Bollywood Actor)
Known for his energetic persona and fashion-forward appearances, Ranveer Singh was also granted the Golden Visa, recognizing his influence on the global entertainment industry.
Fanbase: Over 40 million Instagram followers.
Neymar Jr. (Brazilian Footballer)
Neymar, a global football star known for his exceptional skills, received the UAE Golden Visa, further cementing the UAE’s relationship with international sports stars.
Fanbase: Over 200 million followers on social media.
Mohanlal (South Indian Actor)
One of India’s most celebrated actors, Mohanlal was granted the Golden Visa in recognition of his contributions to cinema, particularly in the Malayalam film industry.
Fanbase: Over 10 million followers on social media.
Suniel Shetty (Bollywood Actor and Entrepreneur)
Known for both his roles in action-packed films and his work as a businessman, Suniel Shetty received the Golden Visa, marking his influence across multiple domains.
Fanbase: Over 10 million followers.
Ramy Ayach (Lebanese Singer and Actor)
A famous figure in the Arab world, Ramy Ayach was awarded the UAE Golden Visa for his contributions to music and the arts.
Fanbase: Over 3 million followers across social platforms.
These celebrities not only contribute to their respective industries but also serve as cultural bridges between the UAE and the world. Their acquisition of the UAE Golden Visa reflects their global influence and the UAE’s commitment to fostering talent across diverse sectors.
Types Permits
There are two categories for this Golden Card UAE.
- 10-year residency permit
- 5-year residency permit
Step-by-Step Guide to the UAE Golden Visa Application Process
Dubai Golden Visa eligibility and application requirements depend upon the type of residency. Whether investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, CEOs, or executives. Scientists, Engineers, outstanding students, graduates, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline heroes.
Business or Real Estate Investors
A business investor is welcome to invest in the country and avail opportunity to get investors Visa for contributing to the country to grow the economy and growth rate. Are you one of the property owners, who qualify for the terms and conditions as under?
- Do you have an investment of 2 million dirhams fund licensed in the country?
- Are you an owner of a company with a capital of 2 million dirhams?
- Have a stake in the company with a value of 2 million dirhams?
- Partnership in a company that pays tax with a value of 0.25 million dirhams.
- Do you have a property whose value is 2 million dirhams and isn’t subject to mortgage?
- Have you done a successful project in previous years in the country with a capital of 5 million
dirhams?
Professionals, CEOs, and Executives
- The UAE also offers a Golden Visa to professionals in all fields and disciplines. The company’s
- CEO and executives must have bachelor’s degrees and earn monthly 50,000 dirhams and have at
- least five years of experience in Dubai.
- Ministry-classified as first, second, and third occupational levels. Do you have a valid
- employment contract in Abu Dhabi? One of the above requirements is mandatory to avail UAE
- visa in this category.
Startup businesses and Entrepreneurs
- Entrepreneurs and startup owners can also get the golden visa if:
- Previous entrepreneurial project owners or partnerships spend a total value of 7 million dirhams.
- A Startup and registered company under the small and medium enterprises category spends a total value of 1 million dirhams. The Ministry of Economy or local authorities will approve any idea or project.
Outstanding Talent
- Field of engineering (computer, electronic, software, genetics, and biotechnology engineering)
- Specialist in the field of science (epidemiology and viruses)
- Inventors in any field
- Athletes and Executives
- Creative individual
- Doctoral Degree people
- Scientist
- Doctors
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science or big data.
Doctors and Nurses
Competent doctors and nurses are eligible as they are the first-line healthcare heroes. Doctors holding licenses from the health regulatory authority of the UAE are eligible through the ICA’s Golden Residency service.
After the pandemic of COVID-19, nurses and para-medical staff also got recognition. UAE Health Authorities are also offering visas to them. The Federal Authority has established seven centers for Citizenship and Identity. Across the UAE for doctors, para-medical staff, and nurses.
Engineers
The Soil of UAE has a lot of scope for exceptional talent in engineering fields, specializing in
computer, electronics, software, genetics, and biotechnology engineering. So officials considered
them eligible for 10 years of residency without a sponsor.
Required documents are as followed:
- Employment contract in the engineering field
- Photocopy of sponsored residency
- Academic Graduation or higher degree
- Letter from the Ministry of Education
Scientists
Researchers and scientists have a lot of respect and recognition around the world. The researchers and scientists are contributing services as per their specialties. So, scientists are also qualified for their Research base work and services.
Terms and conditions are as mentioned:
Ph.D. in Scientific Fields from the best universities in the world.
Recommendation letter from the Emirates Scientists Counsel.
Students and Graduates
A national level toppers secured 95 percent in private or public schools. He may be applicable for a 5-year Golden Visa without a sponsor, subject to a recommendation letter from the Emirates schools establishment.
Requirements:
- Cumulative GPA of 3.5 or more
- Graduation certificate stamped by the Ministry of Education.
Humanitarian Pioneers
- International and regional organizations’ outstanding employees.
- Civil association institution worker who worked for five years.
- Individuals whose work focused on humanitarian.
- Individuals who have received awards from local, regional, and international authorities.
- Volunteers of humanitarian work or support provided
Frontline Heroes and Retired Foreigner
The extraordinary effort of frontline heroes in a critical situation like COVID-19 is admirable in
the entire world. UAE’s competent authority granted Golden Visa consideration for frontline heroes.
Retired foreigners can get a residency for 5 years.
Requirements:
Real estate ownership of one million AED.
Income of 15,000 AED.
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa for Professionals and Investors
Living and working in Dubai is advantageous, offering a high quality of life and good health. Here are some advantages:
- Renewable residency visa valid for 5 to 10 years.
- You don’t need a privileged sponsor.
- The permit for sponsoring family members, spouses, and children. The sponsored members can stay in the UAE until the end of their visa period, even if the primary holder passes away.
- Stay in the world’s 2nd-ranked safest country with stability and security. And avail the best education and infrastructure.
- Ease of doing business and tax-free income.
- An extended period of living after the expiry or cancellation to six months.
- Esaad card discount scheme for Dubai golden visa holders.
Moreover, there are many other benefits and advantages specific to individual emirate states. They are as followed:
Dubai
● Foreign nationals having a driving license from their own country.
● They have the access to take the UAE driver’s assessments without learning extra lessons.
● The visa holder will be eligible for a UAE driver’s license from the 32 approved countries.
● Health insurance is mandatory in UAE, to avail of most benefits on annual charges.
● Holders can easily access driving licenses and relaxation in other assessments.
Abu Dhabi
● The UAE provides discounts and offers to expatriates when they buy properties, cars, banking
services, health insurance, and hotels.
● Visa holders will have access to the deduction on selected properties.
● Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank offer fixed interest rates
● Discount on purchasing or booking four vehicles with priority bases.
● They will entertain special offers in hotels and spas.
Golden Visa Costs and Processing Times
The application fee is between 2800 AED to 3800 AED for Individuals applying from Dubai. An individual from outside Dubai will cost approximately 3800 AED to 4800 AED.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the UAE Golden Visa
- Determine Your Eligibility: Based on your profession, investment, or entrepreneurial status, ensure you meet the UAE government’s eligibility criteria.
- Gather Necessary Documents: This may include proof of professional status, investment certificates, property ownership documents, and passport copies. It’s essential to have all documents attested by the relevant authorities.
- Submit Your Application: Applications can be submitted through official UAE government portals such as the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) or via licensed typing centers. Include all required documentation and ensure accuracy to avoid delays.
- Wait for Approval: Once submitted, your application will go through a review process. For professionals and investors, this might include background checks and verification of financial status.
- Receive Your Visa: Upon approval, you’ll be issued a Golden Visa, granting you long-term residency in the UAE. You can now enjoy the benefits that come with this prestigious status.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When applying for the UAE Golden Visa, there are several common pitfalls to avoid:
- Incomplete Documentation: Ensure all documents are properly attested and meet UAE standards.
- Relying on Outdated Information: The Golden Visa program is frequently updated, so check the latest requirements before applying.
- Incorrect Category Selection: Ensure that you’re applying under the correct category (professional, investor, etc.), as submitting under the wrong category can delay your application.
How to apply
The process is very simple to process an application as under:
- Submit the application through the official online portal, Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
- Fill in the requested information.
- Attach the required documents and review them.
- Pay the fee to complete the process.
The GDRFA-Dubai portal is also available to apply for Golden Visa Du
Track Visa Application
After the submission of the application note down your application and reference number. Track your application to know the status and validity (if you already have a visa on the passport).
Log in to the official website of the Federal Authority of Identity, Citizenship, and security-ICP.
Put your application number and reference number. Or put your passport number and check validity.
You can check visa applications for Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah through the following portals or centers.
- ICA echannels Portal
- ICA channels on App Store (Apple) and Google Play (Android) For Dubai, you can apply through the Amer Center in Dubai or GDRFA.
- Check your application status through the General Director of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai.
- The DubaiNow app is also available to check your visa status or application.
In case of any urgency about visa type, issuance, and validity:
● reach out at the ICP feedback platform or tool-free contact number 600522222.
● Dubai visa Access contacts Amer Center tool free 800 5111.
● For Outside the UAE dial +9714-313-9999 to check your application and visa status.
How To Check The Visa Status.
- Go to the ICP Smart Services portal
- Fill in the required information
- Attachment the required documents and slips.
- Pay the fees.
- Service Rate
- Receive the Service by Email.
Esaad Card
In UAE if you are Golden Visa, Green Visa, or Digital Nomad Visa holder which is a long residency visa then you’re eligible to get Esaad Card. Previously, only selected government employees had access to this service.
The government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a smart identity card called the Esaad Card on March 13, 2017. It is an initiative that is part of the country’s efforts to improve security and provide residents and citizens with safe and effective ways to identify themselves. It also offers special discounts on both basic and luxury goods, allowing them to save money on both aspects of their lives.
An electronic chip in the Esaad Card stores residents’ personal and biometric information, such as their name, photograph, date of birth, and fingerprints. Additionally, it has an electronic signature feature that can be utilized for digital document signing and authentication.
The card serves as an official form of identification in a variety of public and private establishments, including hospitals, banks, and airports. It is required for all UAE citizens and residents. Within the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries, the Esaad Card is also a valid travel document, allowing citizens to travel without needing travel documents.
The Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA), which is in charge of registering individuals and issuing identity cards in the United Arab Emirates, is the organization that issues the Esaad Card. An application form must be submitted, biometric information like a photograph and fingerprints must be provided, and a fee must be paid for the Esaad Card.
The Esaad Card not only gives you a safe way to identify yourself, but it also gives you access to e-government services and discounts on stores, public services, and facilities. Additionally, it is connected to the UAE’s national health insurance program, ensuring that UAE residents and citizens have access to high-quality medical care.
Overall, the Esaad Card is a crucial component of the UAE’s identity management system. It gives residents and citizens of the country a safe and effective way to identify themselves, increases the security of the nation, and makes everyday activities like discounts and access to many stores easier.
The Esaad privileged card encourages long-term residents to contribute to the economy. The Esaad cards are currently accepted in 7,237 businesses and brands in the UAE and across 92 countries.
Discounted outlets are as under:
Fashion and Beauty Stores. (55-75% Discount)
- Mahalati Jewelers.
- Citizen watches.
- Gulf Optics.
- Joder House of Diamonds
Entertainment. (25-80% Discount)
- Dubai Underwater and Aquarium.
- Dolphinariums in Dubai.
- Ekart Zabeel.
- Byky Sport.
- Digit.
- Leisure Equipment.
Education Institute. (30-70% Discount)
- The Fifth Dimension Elementary School.
- Woodlem Park School.
- Jumeirah University.
- Canadian University of Dubai.
- British University in UAE.
Healthcare points. (20-50% Discount)
- Canadian Hospital.
- Hellenic Dentist Hospital.
- Glamour Care Clinic.
- Adam Vital.
- Dr. Jasnas Ayurveda.
Airlines (15-25% Discount)
- Etihad Airways.
- Fly Dubai.
- Flynas.
- Air France.
Hotels and Resorts (20-25%)
- Dubai hotel and Suits.
- Avani Palm View.
- Mandarin Jumeirah
Golden Visa Program; A Comparison Of All Countries
| Country | Min. Investment | Investment Type | Eligibility Criteria | Benefits |
| Switzerland | CHF200,000 | -lump sum tax. -New swiss company. -New swiss company. | -Legal adult. -Belonging to a non-EU country. -Swiss Health insurance. -No history of criminal activities. -Proof of source of income rent/own a property in the country. | -No residency requirement for Golden Visa. -Citizenship after 12 years of living. -Dual citizenship is allowed by the Swiss government. |
| Portugal | €250,000 | -Real estate. -Investment fund units. -Capital transfer. -Donation. -New business. | -Over 18 years of age. -Non-EU or non-Swiss applicant. -Make a qualifying investment. -No prior criminal record. -Must spend a minimum of seven days in the country. -Must be financially able to assist yourself and/or family members that come with you to spend the minimum number of days in the country. | -Only need to stay for seven to fourteen days per year in the country. -Eligible to apply for citizenship after 5 years. -Freedom to travel visa-free to the EU/Schengen zones. Tax is applicable only if you live in the country for 183 days. -Work permit issued. -Free healthcare in public hospitals. |
| Spain | €500,000 | -Real estate. -Spanish public debt. -Bank deposit. -New business investment. | -+18 years of age. -No history of criminal records. -Health insurance in Spain. | -No minimum stay requirement. -Allowed to work and live Family members can get Visa-free travel to Schengen states and Access to healthcare and education. -Permission to buy more properties in Spain. -Permanent residence after 6 years of Citizenship after 10 years of PR. |
| Turkey | $400,000 | -Real estate. -Government bonds. –New Company. -Capital transfer. -Bank deposit. -Real estate. -investment fund. | -Legal adult. -No criminal record -Never stayed in Turkey illegally. -Completed the investment. | -Access to business opportunities in EEC. -Eligible to apply for a US E2 investment visa. -You’ll be granted a -Turkish passport in less than six months. -Permanent residency as soon as you get the visa. -Visa-free travel to 110 EU and other countries. |
| Greece | €300,000 | -Real estate. -Capital transfer. -Investment bonds. -Company investment. -Bank deposit. | -+18 years of age. -No history of criminal records. -Health insurance from a certified company in Greece. | -No residency requirement. -Citizenship after 7 years of residency. -Visa-free travel to Schengen states. -Low investment options for the visa. |
| Ireland | €1 million | -Enterprise investment. -Investment Funds. -Real Estate. -Investment Fund. -Endowments | -+18 years of age. -Clear criminal record. -Proof of net worth (minimum net worth of €2 million). -Character certificate from authorities. | -Irish citizenship after living in the country for five years. -Visa-free travel to the EU and other countries worldwide. -Access to healthcare and education minimum stay requirement of only one visit per year. |
| Malta | €98,000 | -Real Estate | -A legal adult (18 years old). -No prior criminal record. -Must be able to show proof of investment. -The investment must be through your own money. -Must be able to support family members in Malta. | -Permit to live and work freely in Malta. -Access to healthcare and education. -Visa-free travel to almost 140 countries. -Your citizenship will be passed on to the children. |
| United Arab Emirates | 500,000 dirhams | -Real estate. -Business. -Investment fund. | -Over 18 years old. -No prior criminal record. -Must be able to show proof of income. -Must be able to show proof of investment. -Valid commercial or industrial license. -Medical insurance. | -Quick path to citizenship. -A long-term visa is valid for 10 years. -Permission to sponsor spouses and children. -Access to healthcare and education. -Several discounts on property, healthcare, schools, and banking. |
| United States Of America | -New U.S.-based company. -Investment in the regional center. | -Legal adult. -Clear criminal record. -Must fulfill the minimum investment requirement. -10 new jobs if creating a new enterprise. -Proof of source of investment. | -Visa-free travel to 183 countries. -Citizenship after 8 years. -Minimum 3 visits in five years. -Permit to live and work freely. -Access to health care and education. -Access to the Green Card which can be renewed. |
Conclusion
The UAE Golden Visa program offers an incredible opportunity for long-term residency in one of the world’s most dynamic and prosperous nations. Whether you’re a professional seeking career growth, an investor looking for business opportunities, or an entrepreneur ready to launch your next venture, the UAE Golden Visa provides the stability and flexibility you need. Apply today to secure your future in the UAE.
