UAE Golden Visa: 10-Year Residency
Everything about the UAE Golden Visa: who qualifies, investment thresholds, required documents, and how to apply in 2025.
Updated:
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit valid for 10 years and renewable indefinitely. It was introduced in 2019 and expanded significantly in 2022.
Who Qualifies?
Investors
- Real estate β property valued at AED 2 million+ (mortgage-free or partially paid)
- Company investment β AED 2 million+ paid-up capital in a UAE company
- Fund investment β AED 2 million+ in an approved UAE investment fund
Entrepreneurs
- Owner of a startup valued at AED 500,000+ by an accredited business incubator in the UAE
- Previously founded a company liquidated with capital above AED 1 million
Talented Professionals
- Specialised talent: doctors, scientists, engineers, artists, athletes, academics
- Government recommendation or endorsement from a UAE entity
PhD Holders & Outstanding Students
- Doctorate holders from top-ranked universities
- High school graduates scoring 95%+ (public) or 98%+ (private) in UAE
Humanitarian Pioneers & Frontline Workers
- By nomination from relevant government authorities
Benefits of the Golden Visa
- 10-year renewable residency β no need for a UAE sponsor
- Sponsor spouse, children (any age, unmarried daughters), and parents
- No minimum stay required β can live outside UAE without losing the visa
- Access to UAE banking, real estate purchase, and services
- Multiple entry visa for family members
Application Process
- Confirm eligibility β check investment threshold or get endorsement letter
- Obtain preliminary approval β from ICA or relevant authority
- Submit documents β online via ICA Federal Authority portal
- Pay fees β government fees apply
- Medical test β if entering on Golden Visa
- Emirates ID β biometric registration
- Visa stamped β in passport
Fees (approximate)
| Item | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Golden Visa government fee | 2,800β3,800 |
| Emirates ID | 370 |
| Medical test | 250β500 |
| Total | β AED 3,420β4,670 |
Note: Fees may vary by category and emirate.
Real Estate Investment Route β Key Details
- Property must be in the UAE (any emirate)
- Off-plan properties accepted if paid amount exceeds AED 2 million
- Mortgaged properties: the paid portion must exceed AED 2 million
- Multiple properties can be combined to reach the threshold
Documents Required
- Passport
- Current UAE visa (if applicable)
- Proof of investment (title deed, share certificate, fund statement)
- Passport-sized photo
- Any supporting documents specific to your category
We guide Golden Visa applicants through every step. Apply now.