A Golden Visa (UAE) is the perfect option for those wishing to establish a long-term presence in the country. It is one of the types of UAE residence visas that allows foreign nationals to settle in the UAE and contribute to its thriving economy. Whether you’re considering a Golden Visa Dubai, a Golden Visa Abu Dhabi, or another emirate, the programme offers significant lifestyle and financial benefits.
Designed for highly talented individuals and families seeking stability, a Golden Visa ensures you can live, work, and study in the UAE for five or ten years, while enjoying a host of benefits. This guide outlines everything you need to know about applying for a Golden Visa in the UAE.
- What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
- Golden Visa UAE Requirements
- New Categories Added in 2024/2025
- Who Can Be Sponsored by a Golden Visa Holder in the UAE?
- Applying For a Golden Visa in the UAE In Three Steps
- FAQs
- Key Takeaways
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The Dubai Golden Visa is a special residence visa scheme which aims to attract the most talented individuals from overseas across multiple industries, positioning the UAE as a global leader in creativity and entrepreneurship.
Golden Visa eligibility applies to specific categories, including investors, entrepreneurs, skilled workers, and students. Visas are renewable and offer more options than standard permits, making them an attractive option for those considering golden residency Dubai.
Golden Visa Benefits
- No local sponsor required
- Remain outside the UAE for over six months if needed
- Sponsor your family and domestic workers, such as nannies
- In the event of the holder’s death, the family may remain in the country until the expiration of their residency permits.
The benefits of the Golden Visa are particularly popular among families, entrepreneurs, and remote professionals looking for long-term stability in the region.
Why Stay Long-Term In The UAE?
- The UAE is one of the world’s safest countries
- Year-round sun and family-friendly lifestyle
- World-class schools, healthcare, and infrastructure
- Tax-free income
- Excellent travel connectivity
Golden Visa UAE Requirements
Individuals who meet the following Golden Visa requirements can apply:
Investors
If you invest in:
- Businesses: AED 2 million or more
- Real estate: AED 2 million or more. See our detailed article on real estate requirements for Golden Visa eligibility through property investment.
Entrepreneurs
If you own or co-own a business or startup:
- The initiative must be technology-driven or focused on future-oriented innovation, such as digital transformation, AI, sustainability tech, innovative infrastructure, or related fields that contribute to forward-looking progress in the UAE.
- The project or business should have a valuation of at least AED 500,000, either through funding, internal valuation, or demonstrated commercial potential based on market readiness, partnerships, or revenue.
- It must be formally approved or recognised by an accredited UAE-based incubator, accelerator, or government-affiliated innovation hub that supports startups or high-impact ventures in the region.
Top students and graduates
If you’re a high achiever:
- High school students: GPA of 95% or more
- University graduates: GPA of 3.8+ (UAE or top international universities)
Skilled professionals and creatives
- Doctors and scientists: approval from the Ministry of Health and a recommendation letter from the Emirates Council of Scientists
- Creative individuals: approved letter from the Department of Culture and Arts
- Executives: must have a degree, a minimum of five years’ experience and a monthly salary of AED 30,000 or more
Salary thresholds and eligibility criteria are subject to change. Always check official government sources for the latest information.
New Categories Added In 2024/25
The programme continues to evolve. The recent Golden Visa new rules include new eligible roles:
- Environmental experts and climate advocates
- High-achieving teachers
- Experienced nurses (15+ years)
- Religious leaders (20+ years)
- Gaming & eSports professionals (Age 25+)
- Yacht owners & maritime executives
- Digital creators, influencers, podcasters and designers
These broadened Golden Visa UAE eligibility criteria make the programme more accessible than ever.
Who Can Be Sponsored by a Golden Visa Holder in the UAE?
Golden Visa UAE holders can sponsor:
- Spouse and children (any age)
- Parents
- Domestic helpers (nanny, maid, etc.)
To do so, the following documents will need to be provided:
- Passport copies
- Marriage and birth certificates
- Health insurance
- ID photos
This flexibility makes the benefits of the Golden Visa especially attractive to families.
Applying For a Golden Visa in the UAE In Three Steps
1. Apply online – Apply for the Golden Visa via the ICP portal or app
2. Upload documents – Ensure every requirement is correctly submitted
3. Pay and await approval – Upon approval, you’ll receive a multiple-entry visa, followed by your residency
For a comprehensive breakdown of the Golden Visa requirements, please consult the ICP or GDRFA websites, depending on your emirate.
Golden Visa Registration Price
The cost of a 10-year or 5-year Golden Visa in the UAE varies depending on your application route and location. Below is a general pricing guide:
- Inside the UAE: AED 2,800 – AED 4,000
- Outside the UAE: AED 3,800 – AED 4,800
- Additional fees: Emirates ID, medical test, administrative charges, and basic health insurance
These figures apply to the main applicant. Sponsoring dependents (such as spouses or children) will incur separate costs for each individual.
Many applicants also choose to apply through visa agencies, which typically charge an extra service fee on top of government costs.
Always check the official UAE government portals for the most up-to-date Golden Visa pricing and eligibility requirements. Applicants can check their visa status after approval for the golden visa in UAE.
FAQs
Typically, one to three months, depending on the type of application.
No, you must purchase a separate health insurance policy.
Yes. You can begin applying for the Golden Visa UAE remotely and receive a multiple-entry visa once your application is approved.
No. Golden Visa Dubai requirements and federal rules permit holders to remain abroad for more than six months without affecting the validity or status of their visa.
No. It grants long-term residency only, not citizenship.
Key Takeaways:
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency programme introduced to attract and retain global talent, investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and outstanding students. It offers eligible individuals the opportunity to live, work, and study in the UAE with long-term stability.
With flexible eligibility criteria, the Golden Visa allows applicants from diverse backgrounds and industries to qualify. It also includes family sponsorship, enabling visa holders to bring their spouse, children, and, in some cases, domestic staff under their sponsorship.
Golden Visa UAE Summary:
- 5- or 10-year residency with no local sponsor required
- Open to investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and creatives
- New eligible categories added in 2024–25, including nurses, teachers, digital creators, and environmental experts
- Sponsor your spouse, children, parents, and domestic workers
- Stay outside the UAE for 6+ months without affecting visa status
- Application is possible from within or outside the UAE
- Costs vary based on visa type, category, and emirate. We recommend checking with official sources or a licensed advisor for the latest fees.
- Check eligibility and apply through official government portals like ICP and GDRFA.
The Golden Visa continues to expand, offering more opportunities for long-term living and investment in the Emirates.
