The UAE has become a leading global destination by introducing progressive policies that support growth, investment, and talent. One of the most important initiatives is the UAE Golden Visa—a long-term residence program meant to bring qualified professionals, entrepreneurs, or investors. This visa also includes family members, offering greater security and long-term opportunities in the country.
As part of the UAE’s vision to welcome global talent and investment, the Golden Visa has quickly become one of the most popular residency options in the region. Moreover, in recent years, the Dubai Golden Visa has attracted highly skilled professionals, visionary entrepreneurs, and high-end investors who wish to secure a future with their family in the Emirates.
In this detailed guide, you will know everything about the Golden Visa services—its purpose, who is eligible, the step-by-step application process, key benefits, and how the Start Any Business team can support your journey toward long-term residency in the UAE.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term resident visa that was approved by the government in 2019. It allows foreign nationals to reside, work, and learn in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. This visa aims to bring in international talent who can support the growth and development of the United Arab Emirates. It is available for five or ten years and is automatically renewed.
By confirming your UAE Golden Visa eligibility, you can benefit from this long-term residency visa, including long-term stability and tax benefits. Whether you want to settle in the Emirates or simply launch a business, this visa option promises an unmatched opportunity for foreign nationals.
Who Can Apply for the UAE Golden Visa?
This special visa is offered to a wide range of individuals who meet certain UAE Golden Visa requirements. Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies:
If you make investments in an approved UAE fund, you are entitled to a 10-year Golden Visa:
- You must show proof of a minimum investment of AED 2 million, either through a fund deposit, a valid commercial or industrial license, or company shares to confirm your UAE Golden Visa eligibility.
- The investment must be fully owned by you, not financed by loans.
- A certificate from the Federal Tax Authority is also required, showing that you pay a minimum of AED 250,000 in taxes annually.
- One of the most important UAE and Dubai Golden Visa requirements is to provide proof of health insurance.
A UAE or Dubai Golden Visa for five years is available to real estate investors:
- You can access Golden visa services only if you have a minimum of AED 2 million worth of real estate in the United Arab Emirates.
- The property can be financed through a loan, as long as the loan is from an approved UAE bank or financial institution.
A 5-year Golden Visa services is available to entrepreneurs who have a successful business:
- Your project must be of a technical or innovative nature, based on future trends or technologies.
- You need a statement from a UAE auditor certifying that your project is worth at least AED 500,000.
- The project should be recognized and approved by a relevant Emirates government body; only then can you become an eligible applicant for the UAE or Dubai Golden Visa.
Professionals who bring exceptional skills to the UAE’s economy are also eligible and can confirm their UAE Golden Visa eligibility by:
- This includes individuals in fields like science, engineering, technology, healthcare, education, law, and culture.
- One of the most important UAE Golden Visa requirements for applicants under this category is that they must hold a valid UAE employment contract and earn at least AED 30,000 per month for a position considered essential to national development.
- A bachelor’s degree or higher in the field of specialization is usually required.
Students who show academic distinction and perform well can qualify for the Golden Visa services:
- This includes high school students in the UAE with top ranks, and university graduates from the UAE or globally recognized institutions.
- The UAE Golden Visa application must include recommendations from educational authorities and proof of achievements.
People with exceptional talent or recognition in their field may be eligible for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa:
- This includes scientists, researchers, inventors, creative artists, athletes, and innovators.
- You’ll need a recommendation letter from a recognized body, such as the Emirates Council of Scientists or a similar relevant authority to confirm your UAE Golden Visa eligibility.
- In some fields, such as healthcare, you may also require an approval letter from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention.
- Awards, patents, research publications, or other proof of excellence can strengthen your application.
Students who show academic distinction and perform well can qualify for the Golden Visa services:
- This includes high school students in the UAE with top ranks, and university graduates from the UAE or globally recognized institutions.
- The UAE Golden Visa application must include recommendations from educational authorities and proof of achievements.
Individuals who have made meaningful contributions to humanitarian work may qualify for a 10-year UAE or Dubai Golden Visa :
- This includes people recognized for their service, donations, or awards in support of humanitarian efforts both locally and internationally.
- Applicants may be employees or members of international or regional humanitarian organizations with at least five years of continuous service.
- In addition, individuals who have donated at least AED 2 million to charitable or humanitarian causes through officially recognized entities can submit the UAE Golden Visa application under this category
Golden Visa UAE – Document Requirements
When applying for the UAE Golden Visa, it is essential to prepare a complete and accurate set of documents to ensure a smooth application process. While specific requirements may vary depending on your eligibility category (investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional, etc.), here is a general list of commonly required documents for applicants in Dubai and across the UAE:
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Recent passport-size photograph (white background, UAE standard)
- Previous UAE entry permit or residency visa (if applicable)
- Emirates ID (for current UAE residents)
- Bank statements or financial records (typically for the last 6 months)
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) issued in the UAE
- Valid health insurance policy
- Tenancy contract or other proof of residence in the UAE
If you are applying under specific categories (such as academic, medical, or scientific professionals), you may be required to submit attested educational qualifications and professional licenses to confirm your UAE Golden Visa eligibility. These documents must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your home country, followed by authentication at the UAE Embassy.
Benefits of Having a Golden Visa in Dubai
Here are the top advantages of holding a Dubai Golden Visa, designed to offer long-term security, flexibility, and a superior quality of life:
Self-Sponsored Visa
This long-term residency visa is completely self-sponsored, which means anyone satisfying the UAE Golden Visa salary requirement and other conditions does not require a UAE employer or individual to sponsor you. This gives you complete independence in your personal and professional life, allowing you to work, live, or invest freely in the UAE.
Comprehensive Family Sponsorship
No age restrictions apply to Golden Visa holders who wish to sponsor their spouse and kids. This ensures long-term family security in the UAE, even allowing adult children to reside legally without needing separate employment or student visas.
Full Business Ownership Opportunities
Unrestricted Travel Flexibility
Access to Growing Real Estate Market
Enhanced Global Mobility
How to Apply for the Golden Visa UAE
Applying for the UAE Golden Visa is a simplified 4-step process, which you can check below:
- Check Your Eligibility:- Before anything else, determine your UAE Golden Visa eligibility under any of the approved categories—such as investors, entrepreneurs, specialized professionals, researchers, or outstanding students. If you're unsure, our consultants at Start Any Business can assess your profile and recommend the best option.
- Complete Your Investment or Requirements:- If your category requires an investment, such as real estate or capital contribution, it must be finalized before completing all your investments. Ensure all documents are ready, including proof of ownership, bank statements, company records, or UAE Golden Visa salary requirement proof, depending on your eligibility route.
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Submit Your Application:- Once your UAE Golden visa requirements are in place, you can begin your application online through the designated government portals like GDRFA or ICP. Your application must include -
- Completed form
- Relevant documents
- UAE Golden Visa fees
- Receive Your Golden Visa:- Once all formalities are completed, including medical clearance and biometrics, you will be granted your 5- or 10-year Golden Visa. This visa is renewable and valid for extended stays outside the UAE.
Golden Visa UAE Validity & Fees
- The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa, typically valid for 5 or 10 years, depending on the applicant’s category and qualifications.
- It is renewable as long as the visa holder continues to meet the required UAE or Dubai Golden Visa requirements.
- One of the most significant advantages is that Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for longer durations without losing their residency status.
- The UAE Golden Visa fees vary depending on your visa type and the emirate you apply in, and the applicants need to pay the required fees to secure this special visa.
- With this special visa, you can settle in the Emirates with your family. The UAE Golden Visa cost for dependents, like children, spouses, and parents, also varies based on the emirate.
Final Thoughts
The UAE Golden Visa opens the door to long-term opportunity, security, and global connectivity in one of the world’s most dynamic regions. However, with evolving regulations and multiple pathways available, expert support can make all the difference.
We at Start Any Business are committed to guiding you through every stage of the Golden Visa process with precision, clarity, and personalized care. From assessing eligibility to preparing the right documentation and aligning your application with the latest requirements, our team with in-depth knowledge of all UAE Golden Visa new rules ensures a smooth and well-informed experience.
Take the next step toward your future in the UAE—with Start Any Business by your side.
