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 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). Inventors Duration of the Golden Visa Application: 10 years Requirements: Recommendation letter from the Ministry of Economy affirming the patent’s economic value. Creative Individuals in Culture and Art Duration: 10 years Criteria: Approval letter from the department of culture and arts in the respective emirate. 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. Athletes Duration: 10 years Criteria: Recommendation letter from General Sports Authority or sports councils. Specialists in Engineering and Science Duration: 10 years Criteria: