Golden Visa

UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa program is a pivotal initiative designed to attract and retain high-caliber individuals, investors, and entrepreneurs by offering long-term residency in the United Arab Emirates. It provides recipients with the opportunity to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a traditional national sponsor fostering a conducive environment for economic growth and innovation. Initially introduced with durations of 5 or 10 years, the Golden Visa facilitates stability and security, appealing to professionals across various fields including technology, healthcare, finance and academia.

UAE Golden Visa

Who is Eligible for the UAE Golden Visa

Eligibility for the UAE Golden Visa extends to several categories of individuals who contribute significantly to the country’s economic and social development. Initially targeting investors and entrepreneurs, the program has expanded to include specialized professionals, scientists, researchers, outstanding students, executives and creatives.

Investors:

Public Investments: An investor can obtain a 10-year visa if they have at least AED 10 million in public investments, either through:

  • A deposit in an investment fund inside the country.
  • Establishing a company in the UAE with a capital of not less than AED 10 million.
  • Partnering in an existing or a new company with a share value of not less than AED 10 million.
  • Having a total investment of not less than AED 10 million in all areas mentioned, provided that the investment in sectors other than real estate is not less than 60% of the total investment.

Entrepreneurs:

Entrepreneurs can apply for the UAE Golden Visa if they meet specific criteria. Eligible entrepreneurs must have an existing project in the UAE with a minimum capital of AED 500,000 or have the approval of an accredited business incubator in the UAE. The business should have an innovative model and a positive economic impact. The visa includes the entrepreneur’s spouse and children, a partner and up to three executives. 

  • Entrepreneurs with an existing project with a minimum capital of AED 500,000, or those who have the approval of an accredited business incubator in the UAE, are eligible for a 5-year visa. This can be upgraded to an investor visa if the conditions are met.
  • The visa includes the spouse and children, a partner and three executives.

Real Estate Investors:

Real estate investors can obtain the UAE Golden Visa by meeting specific investment criteria. The primary requirement is to invest in property worth at least AED 5 million. Key conditions for eligibility include:

  • Loan Restrictions: The property investment must not be financed by a loan. Investors must demonstrate that the funds used for the property purchase are their own.
  • Investment Retention: The property must be retained for at least three years. Investors need to commit to holding their investment in the UAE real estate market for this period.

The Golden Visa for real estate investors includes the investor’s spouse and children, providing a 5-year residency with the possibility of renewal. This visa offers long-term stability and the opportunity for investors and their families to live and thrive in the UAE.

Outstanding Students and Graduates:

  • High School Students:
    • UAE-based outstanding students with a minimum grade of 95% in public and private secondary schools.
  • University Students:
    • Must be from universities in the UAE and have a GPA of 3.8 or above.
  • Graduates from Top 100 Universities Worldwide:
    • Criteria include an average of 3.8 or above, graduation within the last two years and fields of study approved by the UAE.
    • This visa includes the student’s family, offering a 5-year residency with the possibility of renewal.

Specialized Talents and Researchers:

  • Doctors, Specialists and Scientists:
    • Must be recognized by Emirates Scientists Council or holders of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence.
  • Researchers and Experts:
    • Must hold a PhD from one of the top 500 universities in the world.
    • Must have significant contributions in their field, such as awards or patents.
  • Creative Individuals in Culture and Art:
    • Must be accredited by the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development.
Golden Visa

Benefits of the Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa offers a range of significant benefits that make it an attractive option for investors, professionals, entrepreneurs and their families looking to live and work in the UAE long-term. Firstly, recipients of the Golden Visa enjoy extended periods of residency, typically for 5 or 10 years, which provides stability and security in a rapidly evolving region. This allows individuals to plan their futures confidently without the uncertainty of visa renewals.

Residency Privileges
Holders of the Golden Visa enjoy long-term residency in the UAE, typically for 5 or 10 years, without needing a local sponsor. This stability provides a secure environment for personal and professional growth.
Work Opportunities
Golden Visa holders are permitted to work in the UAE across various sectors without requiring a specific employment sponsorship. This flexibility empowers individuals to pursue career opportunities independently.
Family Sponsorship
Golden Visa holders can sponsor their immediate family members, including spouses and children, enabling them to reside, study and work. UAE offering a high standard of living and cultural experiences.
UAE Golden Visa

UAE Golden visa Duration and Renewal

Golden Visas are typically renewable upon expiration, provided the visa holder continues to meet the program’s criteria. Renewal requirements may include demonstrating ongoing contribution to the UAE’s economy or society, maintaining the initial investment or business activities and fulfilling any other conditions set by the authorities.

The renewal process ensures continuity of residency benefits, such as work flexibility, family sponsorship and access to the UAE’s amenities and services. It underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering long-term relationships with talented individuals and investors, supporting their continued contributions to the country’s growth and development.