The UAE Golden Visa: Requirements and Application Process

Embarking on the journey of securing a Golden Visa application in the UAE unveils a pathway to unparalleled opportunities and stability. This article serves as an indispensable guide, shedding light on the intricate requirements, benefits, and the step-by-step application process.

In this article, we demystify the intricacies of the Golden Visa application. Read on!

What is the UAE Golden Visa Application?

To clarify, the UAE Golden Visa application is not merely a bureaucratic procedure; it symbolizes an invitation to be a part of the UAE’s vision for sustained growth and development. Therefore, this visa is designed to attract skilled professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals with exceptional talents, positioning the UAE as a global hub for innovation and excellence

Consequently, understanding the nuances of the Golden Visa application is essential. Applicants need to grasp the specific criteria laid out by the UAE government, ensuring alignment with the emirate’s objectives. Most importantly, this involves a comprehensive assessment of eligibility requirements, which may vary based on the emirate of choice—Golden Visa Application Abu Dhabi or Dubai.

Firstly, we will explore the fundamental aspects of the Golden Visa application. The program is open to several categories, including investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and outstanding students. So, each category has its own set of criteria, and applicants must meticulously evaluate their qualifications to determine the most suitable path.

For investors, substantial financial commitments in the form of property ownership, business investment, or deposits contribute to eligibility. Entrepreneurs, on the other hand, are evaluated based on their business venture’s impact, innovation, and potential for growth. Also, skilled professionals must demonstrate excellence in their respective fields, contributing significantly to the UAE’s economic and social progress.

Therefore, the Golden Visa application process involves a strategic alignment of an applicant’s profile with the emirate’s strategic goals. For this reason, it is not merely about obtaining residency; it is about becoming an integral part of the UAE’s vision for a diversified and sustainable future.

Moreover, the Golden Visa application process is dynamic, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to adapting and evolving to global trends. Updates and changes to the program are frequent, requiring applicants to stay informed and navigate the process.

Eligibility Requirements for UAE Golden Visa Application

Discover more about the Golden Visa application:

• Investors in Public Investments. Investors in an investment fund or real estate, with specific financial criteria, can secure a 10-year Golden Visa. However, proof of medical insurance and complete ownership of the invested capital is mandatory.
• Real Estate Investors. Property owners, with a property value of at least AED two million, can obtain a renewable 5-year Golden Visa. Certainly, this visa is also accessible for property purchased with a loan from approved local banks.
• Entrepreneurs with innovative projects can acquire a 5-year Golden Visa, provided they meet specific criteria and approvals. To clarify, approval from an auditor, local authorities, and a business incubator is mandatory.
• Outstanding Specialized Talents. Professionals in various fields, such as doctors, scientists, and athletes, can secure a 10-year Golden Visa. Especially, each category has specific requirements, like approval letters and recommendations.
• Outstanding Students. High-achieving high school and university students, both locally and internationally, can obtain a 5 to 10-year Golden Visa. Notably, specific GPA and university ranking criteria must be met for eligibility.
• Pioneers of Humanitarian Work. Individuals with a significant humanitarian impact may secure a 10-year Golden Visa. Therefore, this includes members of international organizations, award recipients, and funders of humanitarian work.
• Frontline Heroes. That is to say, heroes who demonstrated extraordinary efforts during crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, are eligible for the Golden Visa. So, recommendations from competent authorities are required for this category.
• ‘One Touch’ Golden Visa Service. As a result, the ‘One Touch’ service streamlines Golden Visa applications, renewals, and related processes. Consequently, applicants can manage visa applications, issuance, regularization, and renewal seamlessly through the ICP website or mobile app.

Types of Golden Visas available

The Golden Visa program in the United Arab Emirates offers various categories catering to different individuals based on their contributions, investments, and talents. So, here is a detailed list of the types of Golden Visas available:

1. Investors in Public Investments

• Duration: 10 years

Criteria:

• Investment in an accredited UAE investment fund.
• Deposit of AED two million.
• Valid commercial or industrial license.
• Memorandum of association verifying a capital of at least AED two million.
• Annual payment of AED 250,000 to the Federal Tax Authority.

Note: Complete ownership of invested capital and proof of medical insurance are mandatory.

2. Real Estate Investors

• Duration: 5 years (renewable)

Requirements:

• Ownership of one or more properties with a total value not less than AED 2 million.
• Property purchase through specific local banks approved by the competent local entity.

Note: A letter from the land department and adherence to financing conditions are essential.

3. Entrepreneurs

• Duration: 5 years

Criteria:

• Ownership of an economic project with a technical or future-oriented nature.
• Project value not less than AED 500,000.
• Also, approval from a UAE auditor.
• Confirmation from local authorities regarding the project’s nature.
• Accreditation from a business incubator in the UAE for the proposed activity.

Note: Entrepreneurial ventures should align with risk and innovation, promoting economic growth.

4. Outstanding Specialized Talents

1. Doctors and Scientists

• Duration: 10 years

Criteria:

• Approval from the Ministry of Health (for doctors).
• Therefore, recommendation letter from Emirates Council of Scientists or Secretariat of the Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence (for scientists).

1. Inventors

• Duration of the Golden Visa Application: 10 years

Requirements:

• Recommendation letter from the Ministry of Economy affirming the patent’s economic value.

1. Creative Individuals in Culture and Art

• Duration: 10 years

Criteria:

• Approval letter from the department of culture and arts in the respective emirate.

1. Executive Directors

• Duration: 10 years

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree certified by the Ministry of Education.
• Minimum five years’ experience in the same position.
• Also, salary certificate with a minimum salary of AED 50,000.
• Valid work contract.

1. Athletes

• Duration: 10 years
• Criteria: Recommendation letter from General Sports Authority or sports councils.

1. Specialists in Engineering and Science

• Duration: 10 years

Criteria:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree certified by the Ministry of Education.
• Valid work contract.

5. Outstanding Students

• High School Students
• Duration: 5 years (extendable)

Requirements:

• National-level topper with a minimum grade of 95%.
• Recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education.

1. University Students

• Duration: 10 years

Criteria:

• Graduation from an A or B class university (as per the Ministry of Education).
• Recommendation letter from the university or an accredited graduation certificate.
• For this reason, cumulative GPA not less than 3.5 for A class and 3.8 for B class.
• Not more than 2 years since graduation.

1. Outstanding Students of Foreign Universities

• Duration: 10 years

Requirements:

• University ranked among the top 100 globally.
• Cumulative GPA not less than 3.5.
• Not more than 2 years since graduation.
• Graduation certificate accredited by the Ministry of Education.

6. Pioneers of Humanitarian Work

• Duration: 10 years

Criteria:

• Minimum five years’ service in international or regional organizations.
• Also, minimum five years’ service in civil associations or institutions of public interest.
• Appreciation award from a local, regional, or international organization focusing on humanitarian work.
• Funders of humanitarian work with a support value not below AED two million.

7. Frontline Heroes

• Duration: Based on recommendation

Requirements:

• Extraordinary effort during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Recommendation from a competent authority.
• Includes nurses, medical assistants, lab technicians, pharmacologists, and other approved cadres by the Frontline Heroes Office.

New Horizon for Entry in 2023

The United Arab Emirates embraces a transformative era in 2023, unveiling visa changes designed to allure global talent and investment. These reforms signify the UAE’s commitment to becoming a premier global hub, fostering inclusivity for tourists, professionals, and investors.

• An Oasis of Hospitality and Opportunity. The UAE redefines hospitality, introducing visas free from sponsors, extended durations, and family-friendly policies. This evolution simplifies entry, offering a more adaptable and inviting environment for those exploring work, investment, or the UAE’s cultural and economic tapestry.
• New UAE Residency Rules 2023. The UAE undergoes a profound visa system overhaul in 2023, introducing new visa types and extending durations. These changes aim to elevate the UAE’s global appeal for business and tourism, creating a more accessible pathway for visitors and expatriates.
• Ten Unprecedented Entry Visas. A pivotal update is the introduction of around ten entry visas without the need for a host or sponsor. That is to say, these visas, with flexible durations and options for single or multiple entries, simplify the process for those seeking opportunities in the UAE.
• Empowering Young Professionals. The job exploration visa opens avenues for young professionals and recent graduates from top global universities. Without a sponsor, individuals in the first three skill levels with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent can explore employment opportunities in the UAE.
• Facilitating Business and Investment. Entrepreneurs and investors find support through the business entry visa, enabling exploration of business prospects without a sponsor. This aligns with the UAE’s strategy to invigorate its economy by attracting foreign investments.

Diverse Visa Options

The 3-month visit visa, extendable at an additional cost, returns alongside the 30 or 60-day tourist visa and the 90-day visit visa. Additionally, a new five-year multi-entry tourist visa opens doors for self-sponsored visits.

Inclusive Family Sponsorship

Family sponsorship becomes more comprehensive. Parents can now sponsor male children up to 25, while unmarried daughters can be sponsored without age restrictions. The rules extend to include those with disabilities.

Flexibility for Various Circumstances

Entry permits for friends, relatives, or temporary work assignments no longer require a sponsor, provided employers sponsor work assignments. Study and training permits find their place for course attendees or interns with proper institutional sponsorship.

Humanitarian Considerations

Humanitarian cases receive attention, with residence permits for widowed female residents with children, parents or children of UAE citizens holding foreign passports, and spouses and children of GCC state citizens with foreign passports.

Reentry Permits for Sustained Residency

A reentry permit now aids residency visa holders residing outside the UAE for over six months, allowing a return within 30 days, maintaining their residency status. In addition, this provision reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering continuity for its residents.

Flexible Visa Extensions

Visa extensions become more adaptable, allowing a one-time 30-day extension for 90-day visit visas and an additional 30 days for all tourist visas within the UAE. The extension fee stands at USD 163.

However, managing entry permits is now streamlined, empowering individuals to extend or terminate permits through personal online accounts. Regular visas have a two-month validity, while Golden visas allow for six months with multiple entries. Notably, Golden and Green visa holders maintain residency even after 180 days outside the country.

Certainly, overstayers must obtain an out-pass and pay overstay fines of USD 14 per day, applicable after a 10-day grace period. UAE and Golden Visa Application Dubai visa fees have increased, and unused visit visas must be canceled within a specified period, incurring a fee of up to USD 82.

Enhanced Visa Validity

The Golden Visa application program undergoes significant expansion, offering a 10-year validity for scientists, researchers, skilled professionals, and various other categories. Notably, recent graduates from the top 100 universities globally are now eligible, aiming to enrich the UAE’s workforce.

As a result, the application process is streamlined, providing four accessible channels, including the UAEICP website and smart app. Required documents include a passport with at least six months’ validity, and the visa issuance fee is USD 95.

Digitalization Advancements

In other words, the UAE embraces digitalization, eliminating the need for residency visa stamping in passports. In other words, visa information changes can be made online, and the validity of residency visas for Emirati women’s children extends from three to five years.

To clarify, the Federal National Council approves the extension of work permits from two to three years, easing financial burdens on residents. The move reflects a commitment to modernization and enhanced services for residents.

Inclusive Golden Visa Privileges

Golden Visa holders enjoy a plethora of privileges, from family sponsorship to discounts on services. Partnerships in Golden Visa Application Abu Dhabi offer reduced mortgage rates and savings account rates. Eligible expatriate students receive a 10-year residency Golden Visa with benefits such as higher education discounts and the Esaad card, providing various privileges.

Expanded Eligibility Criteria

The Golden Visa now embraces a broader spectrum of professionals, talents, and contributors. Entrepreneurs with innovative projects, high-earning skilled professionals, and students with exceptional academic records are considered. Notable contributors to humanitarian work and frontline heroes during crises are also eligible.

Moreover, health insurance packages through the National Health Insurance Company are introduced, tailored to age and chosen plans. The Golden Visa application status process is accessible online via the ICP website or the GDRFA-Dubai app, ensuring ease of application for eligible individuals.

Green Visa Unveiled: A Paradigm Shift

The Green Visa marks a transformative shift, empowering highly skilled individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, and top students to self-sponsor their UAE residency. Preliminary approval from GDRFA streamlines entry, ensuring a seamless transition into the UAE.

Certainly, the ICP revolutionizes user experience by enabling digital management of entry permits through personal accounts. That is to say, the Green Visa now extends residency to five years, a substantial increase from previous durations, offering enhanced stability.

Inclusive Eligibility Criteria

Skilled workers, freelancers, and self-employed professionals find accessibility without a UAE-based sponsor. Skilled workers need a valid employment contract, meeting specific criteria, including a minimum salary of USD 4,100 and a bachelor’s degree. Freelancers and self-employed individuals present evidence of a bachelor’s degree, an annual income of USD 98,000 from self-employment, and financial solvency. Investors or partners demonstrate an investment of at least USD 272,280, with potential capital combination, subject to local authority approval.

Moreover, the Green Visa amplifies family benefits, simplifying the sponsorship of spouses and children. That is to say, the grace period post-visa cancellation extends to six months, and the age limit for sponsoring children increases to 25 years.

The Green Visa fee structure, excluding additional charges, is set at AED 2,280, varying based on the number of dependents sponsored.

UAE Visa Extension Evolution

In 2023, the UAE introduces progressive visa extension regulations, offering updated guidelines for extended stays within the nation. However, there is a cap on the cumulative stay, set at a maximum of 120 days within a year, urging careful planning for travelers.

Enhanced Flexibility and Online Management

Visa extensions for 30 days provide flexibility, especially for those seeking a prolonged experience. Online application options simplify the process, making it efficient and time-saving.

• For 90-day visa holders, a notable change allows an additional 90-day extension, effectively doubling the initial permitted duration.
• To clarify, personal online accounts streamline the extension and cancellation of entry permits, ensuring efficient visa status management.

Cost Considerations and Avoiding Fines

• Extending a visit visa in the UAE incurs a cost of around AED 1100, a crucial factor for those planning an extended stay.
• Moreover, extensions help avoid hefty overstay fines, set at 50 AED for each day of overstaying. Above all, tourist visa holders with expired visas face an extra charge of 100 AED upon exiting.

Seamless Online Processes and Calculating Fines

Visa extensions, including online options, are processed through the GDRFA website or a UAE government portal, offering flexibility for applicants. Certainly, online tools, such as the GDRFA and ICP websites, assist in calculating overstay fines, ensuring transparency and avoiding surprises upon departure.

• Expanding Visa Options. The UAE introduces a 90-day visit visa, extendable in-country, offering flexibility for exploration or short-term business engagements. Also, parents can now sponsor male children up to 25 and disabled children indefinitely, emphasizing family unity.
• Diverse Entry Permits. Visiting friends, relatives, or on a temporary work assignment? Entry permits without a sponsor or host are now accessible. Additionaly, study and training entry permits support educational and professional development opportunities within the UAE.
• Ensuring Residency Continuity. For those outside the UAE for over six months, a reentry permit safeguards residency status, catering to extended overseas stays. Above all, in a step towards digitalization, managing entry permits online enhances efficiency, simplifying extensions or cancellations.
• Addressing Overstays and Fees. Overstays require an out-pass and settlement of fines, with a grace period for visit visa holders. However, increased fees for UAE and Golden Visa Application Dubai visas, including tourist visas, demand careful consideration and timely cancellation of unused visit visas.
• Golden Visa Expansion. The Golden Visa application encompasses a broader range, considering talent without stringent qualifications, salary, or professional status. Notably, the Green Visa offers a 5-year stay, available for skilled employees, freelancers, and investors without a UAE-based sponsor.
• Administrative Streamlining. Embracing digitalization, the Emirates ID replaces residency visa stamping, reducing paperwork and streamlining visa information changes online. To emphasize, extended validity for residency visas of children of Emirati women and foreign nationals enhances administrative efficiency.

Job Stability Enhancements

The Federal National Council’s approval of extended work permits enhances stability for expatriate workers.

• Embracing UAE’s Vision. The UAE’s 2023 visa rules signify a strategic shift towards inclusivity, simplification, and digitalization, reinforcing its global appeal. Certainly, these regulations reflect the nation’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for tourists, expatriates, and investors alike.
• Focused Initiatives. With a focus on attracting global talent, supporting family cohesion, and facilitating business ventures, the UAE solidifies its position as a cosmopolitan nexus. As you navigate, embrace the opportunities these new pathways offer, whether you are a career trailblazer, an academic achiever, or part of the expatriate community.
• Testament to Forward-Thinking Ethos. Above all, the UAE’s visa transformation is a testament to its forward-thinking ethos, ensuring seamless and enriching experiences for all in the Emirates.

Understanding the Golden Visa

The Golden Visa application UAE, a long-term residence permit, offers foreign talents the chance to live, work, or study in the UAE. Most importantly, it provides exclusive benefits, including a six-month multiple-entry visa for residence issuance.

Key Golden Visa Features

• Long-Term Residency: Enjoy a renewable residence visa valid for 5 or 10 years.
• Sponsorship Freedom: No need for a sponsor.
• Extended Stay: Stay outside the UAE for more than the usual six-month period without affecting your visa validity.
• Family Inclusion: Sponsor spouses and children of any age, along with an unlimited number of domestic helpers.
• Continued Family Stay: Above all, family members can stay in the UAE until the end of their permit duration if the primary Golden Visa holder passes away.

Golden Visa Application Status Process

• For comprehensive information on the Golden Visa, including requirements and benefits, and to apply digitally, explore related services.
• Certainly, this long-term visa caters to investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students, and humanitarian pioneers.

Contacting Authorities

• For visa-related queries, contact the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) or UAE embassies and consulates.
• For Dubai visas, direct your inquiries to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD).

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa application stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to attracting global talent and fostering a diverse and thriving community. We will discover the multifaceted benefits it offers:

1. Long-Term Residency. Enjoy extended residency periods, ranging from 5 to 10 years, providing stability and a sense of belonging.
2. Multiple Entries. Benefit from a six-month entry visa with multiple entries, facilitating seamless travel in and out of the UAE.
3. Independence from Sponsors. Unlike traditional visas, the Golden Visa liberates individuals from the need for a sponsor, granting unparalleled independence.
4. Extended Stay Flexibility. Holders can stay outside the UAE for more than the usual six months, allowing for extended business trips or leisure travel.
5. Family Sponsorship. Above all, Golden Visa holders can sponsor family members, including spouses, children of any age, and an unlimited number of domestic helpers.
6. Streamlined Application Process. The ‘One touch’ Golden Visa service simplifies the application and renewal processes, ensuring efficiency and convenience.
7. Exclusive Privileges. Access exclusive benefits such as reduced mortgage rates, savings account rates, and discounts on various services in collaboration with partner entities.
8. Health Insurance Packages. Golden Visa holders can avail themselves of tailored health insurance packages through the National Health Insurance Company (Daman).
9. Access to Financial Services. Partnerships with esteemed entities like Imkan Properties and prominent banks offer financial advantages, enhancing the overall financial well-being.
10. Discounts on Education. Outstanding students and their families receive educational benefits, including discounts on higher education, fostering academic growth.

The UAE Golden Visa encapsulates a vision of inclusivity, innovation, and a global community. As individuals embrace these benefits, the UAE cements its position as a welcoming hub for talent, fostering an environment where diverse contributions are not only recognized but also rewarded.

UAE Golden Visa Application Process and Documentation Required

Navigating the UAE Golden Visa application process requires attention to detail and compliance with specific documentation. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Eligibility Check. Determine eligibility based on categories such as investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding talents, students, or humanitarian pioneers.
2. Online Application Channels. Utilize the four available channels for a 24/7 application process. Later, UAEICP website or smart app. Then, customer Happiness Centres. So, accredited typing offices.
3. Required Documents. Prepare essential documents, including a passport with at least six months’ validity, a colored personal photo, and category-specific documentation.
4. Visa Issuance Fee. Pay the visa issuance fee of USD 95, covering application, issuance, smart services, and ICP and electronic services fees.
5. Documentation for Different Categories. Submit specific documents based on the chosen category, whether investment-related, entrepreneurial, or talent-focused.
6. Health Insurance. Also, provide proof of medical insurance for the applicant and family members, if applicable.
7. Continuous track Golden Visa application. Therefore, utilize the option to track Golden Visa application status through official channels, ensuring transparency and awareness.
8. Privileges Activation. Upon successful approval, Golden Visa holders can activate their exclusive privileges, including family sponsorship and financial benefits.
9. Renewal Process. Follow the streamlined renewal process through the ICP website or app, ensuring continued benefits and residency.
10. Utilization and Extensions. Above all, if the visa is not utilized within the designated timeframe, applicants can request a one-time extension of 60 days.
11. Compliance with Regulations. Adhere to all regulations and requirements to maintain the Golden Visa’s benefits and residency status.

The Golden Visa application UAE process represents a gateway to long-term residency and a myriad of advantages, contributing to the UAE’s vision of becoming a global hub for talent and innovation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Golden Visa application opens doors to a future defined by stability and prosperity in the UAE. This guide equips applicants with the knowledge needed to embark on this transformative journey. For personalized assistance and updates, visit The C-UAE.