The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands out as a prime destination for foreign investors, workers, and entrepreneurs. Recognizing its appeal, the UAE government introduced various initiatives to attract top talent and stimulate economic growth. Notably, the UAE Golden Visa program, launched in 2019, has become a prominent avenue for individuals seeking long-term residency without the need for a sponsor. This UAE Golden Visa Guide help you to learn more about UAE Golden Visa.

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is an official document that allows foreigners to reside in the country for an extended period. Unlike other visa programs, the Golden Visa offers durations ranging from 5 to 10 years, making it particularly appealing to those who prefer long-term stability.

UAE Government Official Website Helps you to know more about UAE Golden Visa

Eligibility for the Golden Visa:

To qualify for the Golden Visa, individuals must belong to specific categories, including:

  • Scientists, Ph.D. holders, and data experts
  • Chief executives
  • Medical doctors
  • Outstanding students (with eligible family members)
  • University graduates with a GPA of 3.8 or more
  • Investors and real estate investors
  • Entrepreneurs

Recent additions to the eligibility criteria include UAE-based physicians and professionals in fields like computer science, electricity, electronics, programming, and biotechnology.

Perks of the UAE Golden Visa:

Holders of the UAE Golden Visa enjoy several benefits, including:

  • Residency in the UAE for 5 or 10 years
  • Confidence in the country’s future
  • Ability to live, work, and learn in the UAE
  • 100% ownership of companies on the UAE mainland
  • No requirement for a national backer

Moreover, Golden Visa holders can obtain a driving license in Dubai without undergoing a course if they already possess a valid license from their home country.

Fees Associated with the Golden Visa:

The cost for obtaining a Golden Visa is AED 15,000, applicable to all categories except for investors in land or the public sector. The application processing time ranges from 30 to 72 days.

How to Obtain a UAE Golden Visa:

The application process varies depending on the category, such as:

  • Real estate investment (minimum AED 5 million)
  • Investment in the public sector (minimum AED 10 million)
  • Starting a business or becoming a partner (minimum AED 10 million capital)

Individuals with special skills, such as doctors, investors, and engineers, must follow specific guidelines outlined by the UAE government.

FAQs About the UAE Golden Visa:

  1. Pros of a Golden Visa:
    • Live, work, and study without a local sponsor
    • 5 or 10-year duration with automatic renewal
    • Discounts on various services and amenities
  2. Cost of a UAE Golden Visa:
    • AED 2,800 for most categories
  3. Working in the UAE with a Golden Visa:
    • Allows individuals and their families to live, work, and attend school in the UAE
  4. Golden Visa for UAE Citizenship:
    • Citizenship is not attainable through the Golden Visa; separate procedures exist.
  5. Program Launch Date:
    • The Golden Visa program was initiated in 2019.
  6. Duration of Stay in Dubai:
    • Standard resident visas are available, and a two-year UAE living visa can be obtained through property investment.
  7. GPA Requirement for the Golden Visa:
    • There is no set GPA; eligibility is assessed based on various factors.
  8. Buying a Golden Visa:
    • The UAE Golden Visa is not purchasable; eligibility is contingent on meeting specific criteria.
  9. Who Can Obtain a Golden Visa:
    • Foreign investors, business owners, and qualified individuals meeting specific requirements.
  10. Validity and Renewal:
    • The Golden Visa has a duration of 5 or 10 years, with the possibility of renewal based on individual circumstances.

It’s important to note that while the Golden Visa provides a pathway to long-term residency, it does not lead to citizenship, and renewals are subject to ongoing fulfillment of criteria. For those seeking citizenship options, alternative programs, such as ROC Citizenship in Europe, may be explored.