UAE Golden Visa

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

In 2022, the United Arab Emirates government implemented comprehensive reforms to strengthen the investment environment and attract foreign investors in the framework of granting the Golden Visa. These reforms, which came into effect in October of the same year, included reducing the required investment amount, eliminating exit restrictions for visa holders, and the possibility of off-plan property purchase in Dubai through bank facilities.

These changes significantly simplified the process of obtaining long-term residency visas for investors and made access to the benefits of living in the UAE easier for them.

Overview: General Conditions for Obtaining Dubai Golden Residency through Property Purchase:

• Minimum required investment: 750,000 dirhams;
• Issuance of UAE Golden Visa in less than 2 months;
• Long-term residency: 5 or 10 years;

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

• Long-term residency: With this type of visa, individuals are usually allowed to stay in the UAE for 5 to 10 years.
• Obtaining work visa: Individuals who receive this visa can work in this Arab country independently without a separate work permit. This is very attractive for entrepreneurs.
• No need for sponsor: The UAE Golden Visa does not require a sponsor or employer. Therefore, you can live independently in this country.
• Access to services: You and your family can benefit from UAE government services such as healthcare, education, and municipal services just like the country's citizens.
• Business opportunities: Investors and entrepreneurs can collaborate with the world's major companies and also establish startups for innovation development.
• No income tax: Holders of the Golden Visa in this country are not required to pay tax on their income.
• Residency in Dubai by buying property: Through the Golden Visa, the UAE attracts real estate investors, allowing them to invest in real estate and other sectors.
• Educational opportunities: Individuals holding the Golden Visa can access high-quality educational institutions.
• Residency for dependents: The Golden Visa covers spouses and children as well.
• Retirement: Individuals who receive the UAE Golden Visa are also eligible for retirement.
• International activities: Golden Visa holders benefit from international flights through the main airports of the UAE and can conduct foreign business more easily.
• 6-month visa with unlimited entry and exit: The applicant can enter the country multiple times to complete the residency process.
• Reside outside the UAE for over 6 months: The applicant can even keep their residency visa valid while temporarily living abroad.
• Sponsorship for domestic helpers: Financial sponsorship for home helpers is possible without limitation.

Disadvantages of the UAE Golden Visa

• Renewal required: The Dubai Golden Visa has an expiration date and must be renewed.
• Does not lead to citizenship: The Golden Visa is a type of temporary residence and does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship.

Some eligible groups for the UAE Golden Visa

• Investors
• Elites
• Professionals in engineering fields
• Inventors
• Athletes
• Creative individuals in culture and arts
• Senior executives
• Scientists
• Doctors

Required Documents for UAE Golden Visa

Each group needs specific documents to obtain the UAE Golden Visa. First, you must select your visa type. Below are some of the required documents needed for this type of visa:

• Financial capability
• Health certificate
• Passport copy
• ID card copy
• Colored personal photo
• Certificate of good conduct
• Copy of current residence visa (if you are currently a UAE resident)
• Resume (including: contact information, academic background, biography, outstanding works and achievements in the cultural field)

6 Steps to Apply for Dubai Golden Visa

• Step One: Collect the required documents including financial asset documents, academic records, etc., based on the type of visa you have chosen.
• Step Two: Go to the UAE Golden Visa registration site, create an account, complete the available forms, and upload a 2-minute video of yourself as requested by the site. After submitting these, wait for the first email confirmation.
• Step Three: If you have a current UAE residence visa, you must cancel it before applying for the Golden Visa.
• Step Four: After receiving email confirmation from the UAE Immigration Office, request issuance of UAE Golden Visa ID.
• Step Five: For the final visa issuance, you must email the Federal UAE Office documents such as your passport, ID card, etc. (The Federal Government).
• Step Six: The government will verify your identity documents, and upon approval, they will issue your Emirates ID card.

Conditions for UAE Golden Visa

Obtaining the Dubai Golden Card may vary depending on the type of residency method you choose! For example, the time needed to obtain this visa through investment in buying an apartment in Dubai depends on your intended expenses and is likely between 5 to 10 years.

Review of Golden Visa Conditions for General Investors in Dubai

Applicants for general investments can receive a 10-year Dubai Golden Visa without the need for a sponsor. The conditions for obtaining the Dubai Golden Visa through this method are:

1. The applicant must invest at least 2 million AED in a fund or commercial-industrial investment.
2. The investor must have full ownership of the capital, and it should not be funded through loans.
3. The applicant should provide health insurance for themselves and their family.
4. The investor must pay at least 250,000 AED annually to the government in accordance with the Federal Tax Authority's laws.

10-Year Golden Visa in the UAE

As mentioned before, the UAE Golden Visa is granted to eligible groups, which include:

• Investors
• Elites
• Outstanding Students
• Doctors and Healthcare Staff
• PhD Holders
• Bloggers and Influencers
• Cinema Stars

1. Obtaining the Golden Visa through Investment

People from all around the world are attracted to the UAE's booming economy to explore investment opportunities in Dubai or to establish new businesses. The UAE's 10-year Golden Visa is a new option provided by the government for foreign immigrants.

Through methods such as company registration, buying villas in Dubai, or purchasing stocks, you can obtain 10-year residency in the UAE. Note: To obtain Dubai Golden Residency by buying property, you can purchase properties valued at 2 million AED or more. Also, those participating in investment funds can obtain a 10-year Golden Residency if they meet the following conditions:

• Receive a letter from the federal authority to prove ownership
• Provide a valid commercial or industrial license worth at least 2 million AED
• Obtain a confirmation letter from a reputable UAE fund proving ownership of at least 2 million AED

Video: Important Points of Obtaining 10-Year Golden Visa by Buying Property in Dubai

What types of properties are eligible for Dubai's Golden Visa?

Not all properties qualify for the Golden Visa scheme by purchasing real estate, but requirements have recently become more flexible.

• Residential properties such as: apartments, villas, and buying a townhouse in Dubai
• Commercial properties such as: office spaces and warehouses (if the required minimum investment is met)
• Freehold properties in permitted zones
• Off-plan properties, provided the minimum investment value is 750,000 AED

Golden Visa Cost for Property Buyers in Dubai

The cost of obtaining Dubai's Golden Visa by purchasing property is approximately 9,684.75 AED. Note that this amount may vary based on individual circumstances or additional processing fees. The breakdown of Golden Visa application costs is as follows:

• Medical examination: 700 AED
• UAE ID card (for 10 years): 1,153 AED
• Residence fee (for 10 years): 2,656.75 AED
• Dubai Land Department fees: 4,020 AED
• Administrative fees: 1,155 AED

Benefits of Obtaining UAE Golden Residency by Buying Property

With this type of Golden Visa, in addition to gaining the benefits of buying property in Dubai, you will also have other advantages as detailed below:

• Long-term residency of 5 or 10 years with automatic renewal for buying a hotel in Dubai
• No need for a local sponsor
• Possibility to financially sponsor family members with no age limit
• Possibility to stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months without visa cancellation
• Full property ownership in authorized zones
• Exemption from personal income tax
• Unlimited entry and exit to the UAE
• Receive special Esaad discount card

2. UAE Golden Visa for Talented Individuals

Other eligible applicants for the 10-year Golden Visa include professionals and talents with significant achievements and influence in their field. Note that to obtain Dubai’s Golden Visa for talents or UAE Talent Visa, you must also have a job contract and valid academic qualifications.

3. Golden Visa for Outstanding Students

If you are a top-performing university student, you may be able to receive the UAE Golden Visa for students (without a sponsor) for 10 years. Your university must be approved by the UAE Ministry of Education and be ranked A or B. You must also provide valid academic records or a recommendation letter to the intended university. Note that if you have already graduated, no more than 2 years should have passed since graduation.

4. Doctors and Medical Staff

The UAE 10-year Golden Visa is granted to doctors and medical staff with at least 5 years of work experience in Dubai. Also, Golden Residency is issued for PhD holders who meet at least 2 of the following criteria in their professional record:

• Published a book with a leading medical publisher
• Published scientific articles in renowned journals
• Obtained a medical degree from one of the world’s top 500 universities
• Membership in a reputable and relevant scientific or medical association
• Participation in well-known and large-scale scientific research

Note: Nurses are also eligible for the UAE Golden Visa with benefits such as long-term residency, companion visa, numerous job opportunities, security, etc. The cost for doctors and nurses varies based on the length of residency.

The cost for obtaining 10-year UAE Golden Residency through the Dubai Golden Visa reaches up to 2,700 AED, and the cost for issuing an ID card is about 1,070 AED. For a 5-year Golden Visa, the fee is 2,290 AED and for an ID card 575 AED must be paid.

5. UAE Golden Visa for PhD Holders

The UAE Golden Visa presents a unique opportunity for PhD holders to live and work in one of the world’s most dynamic and advanced countries. With long-term 10-year residency, specialists can live in the UAE with their families, without the need for a sponsor, and benefit from tax exemption, access to quality education and healthcare, and unparalleled professional opportunities.

6. UAE Golden Visa for Bloggers and Influencers

The UAE offers a 10-year Golden Visa for influencers, bloggers, and content creators, giving them a unique opportunity to work in one of the world’s most dynamic digital markets. This visa is without a sponsor, allows long-term residency, access to professional studios, training courses, and networking with industry leaders. Dubai, as a hub of creativity and innovation, is now more open than ever to digital talents. The conditions for a Dubai Golden Visa for influencers include:

• Proven track record of impactful content creation or creative activities
• Received awards or recognitions related to content creation
• Ability to demonstrate potential to create value and contribute to the UAE’s creative community
• Ability to demonstrate consistent growth and engagement in content activities

7. Golden Residency for Film Stars in Dubai

Film stars and individuals active in the entertainment industry can qualify for the UAE 10-year Golden Visa. The primary requirement is to meet general conditions such as investment in the UAE or significant achievements in the entertainment field.

UAE 5-Year Golden Visa

In addition to the 10-year visa, the United Arab Emirates also offers a 5-year version. This type of visa has different conditions compared to the 10-year Golden Visa. Eligible individuals for the 5-year visa include:

• Entrepreneurs
• Real estate buyers in Dubai
• Human rights activists
• Retirees
• High school students
• Executive managers

1. Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs

To get a 5-year Golden Visa as an entrepreneur, you must own a share of a company or own 100% of a company. You must demonstrate that the company advances science and technology and is valued at least 500,000 AED.

2. Obtaining Dubai Golden Visa by Buying Property

To obtain the 5-year Golden Visa through property purchase, you need an investment of 5 million AED. Note that the investment can’t be a loan, and it must continue for at least 3 years.

Can you get Dubai’s Golden Visa through joint property ownership?

Buying property jointly can lead to a UAE Golden Visa, but requirements differ according to the type of partnership and investment amount. If the property is jointly purchased with your spouse, the minimum investment required is 1,000,000 AED (about $272,252). If the joint ownership is with someone other than your spouse, special conditions apply, and each investor may need to secure their own independent share.

3. Golden Visa for Human Rights Activists

Golden Residency by volunteer work is available under the following conditions. With this Golden Card, you may receive a 5-year visa:

• Donating at least 2 million AED to humanitarian causes
• Receiving a humanitarian award from international or local organizations
• At least 5 years of experience with international organizations or social charities

4. UAE Golden Visa for Retirees

Retirees with more than 1 million AED in capital or a monthly income of about 15,000 AED can obtain the UAE Golden Visa. The Golden Residency for retirees offers many benefits. Also, with buying a studio apartment in Dubai you can receive the residency and passport of this country and travel to many countries.

5. UAE Golden Residency for High School Students

If you are a high school student with at least a 95 out of 100 in public or private high school, you may receive the 5-year Golden Visa with no sponsor and renewable options. To get this visa, you must get a recommendation letter from the UAE Ministry of Education if eligible.

6. Golden Visa for Executive Managers in Dubai

Executive managers can receive the UAE Golden Visa by fulfilling specific requirements. The documents needed are as follows:

1. The applicant must hold at least a bachelor’s degree recognized by the Ministry of Education.
2. The applicant must provide at least 5 years of experience in the same role.
3. The applicant must submit a salary certificate with a minimum income of 50,000 AED.
4. The applicant must have a valid job contract.

Golden Visa Conditions for Certain Professions

The Dubai visa requirements for some professions are as follows:

UAE Golden Visa for Programmers

This visa allows programmers to live and work in the UAE for 5 to 10 years. The advantages for this occupation include: AI advancement opportunities, numerous job prospects, no need for a sponsor, residency for the family, bank account opening in Dubai, etc. The eligibility conditions are as follows:

• Having a specialized skills certificate is advantageous.
• Engineers must have at least 5 years of programming experience.
• Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.

Golden Visa for Artists in the UAE

In recent years, with new UAE policies, creative individuals in art and culture can also apply for a Golden Visa (5 or 10 years). Below are some main requirements for artists immigrating to Dubai.

• Having an international certificate of appreciation
• Membership in a reputable artistic organization or association
• Having outstanding works of art at an international level
• Artists active in the media field must have 7 years of work experience and have been nominated for an international award at least once

Eligible Fields for UAE Golden Visa in Engineering and Science

• Epidemiology and viruses
• AI engineering
• Big data engineering
• Computer engineering
• Electronic engineering
• Software engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Genetic engineering and biotechnology

General Costs for UAE Golden Visa

The cost of a UAE Golden Visa depends on your type of service. General and administrative fees are shown in the table below.

Processing Time for UAE Golden Visa

The processing time for the Golden Visa request varies depending on the type of visa and may take from 48 hours to 60 days to receive an email with the result.

Golden Visa Requirements for Iranians

Iranian citizens can now apply for the UAE Golden Visa under specific conditions and benefit from 5 to 10 years of residency in the country.

This visa is for investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding professionals, and talented individuals in fields such as medicine, engineering, and technology. However, due to geopolitical factors (referring to the social and geographical relations between the 2 countries), the process may be more thorough and time-consuming for Iranians; but, it still offers a valuable opportunity for residence and professional advancement in one of the world's most developed countries.

English Text:

“One touch’ Golden visa service is a comprehensive service designed to simplify the application and the renewal process for a Golden residence visa.“

Persian Translation:

The One Touch Golden Visa application is a comprehensive service designed to simplify and facilitate the Golden Visa application and renewal process in Dubai.

Source: u.ae

Does investing in Dubai Free Zones result in obtaining a Dubai Golden Visa?

Investing in real estate in Dubai Free Zones is one of the recognized methods for obtaining the United Arab Emirates Golden Visa. By purchasing a property with a minimum value of 2 million dirhams, the applicant becomes eligible for Dubai Golden Residency benefits. Additionally, buying a shop in Dubai with the specified value also allows you to reside in Dubai by purchasing property.

Key organizations in the Dubai Golden Visa issuing process

Dubai Land Department is the main entity overseeing real estate transactions in the UAE and is responsible for registering and tracking purchases and sales for Golden Visa holders.

On the other hand, DLD Cube, as an integrated, digital service center, provides all essential services for real estate investors. This center, in collaboration with various governmental and private entities including: the immigration department and foreign affairs, offers services such as online medical examinations, ID applications, health certificates, and citizenship-related services.

Comparison of UAE Golden Visa with other countries

The Dubai Golden Visa is considered an attractive option for international investors due to its lower initial investment, flexibility in residency requirements, and relatively easier application process. Although this visa does not directly lead to citizenship, it offers significant benefits including long-term residency, access to a dynamic commercial market, and extensive economic opportunities.

Compared to options such as the US EB-5 Visa or Portugal's Golden Visa, the UAE Golden Visa generally requires less investment and provides residency without mandatory physical presence in the country. Another advantage is the possibility of obtaining dependent visas for family members. The best countries to obtain a Golden Visa through property purchase are:

• UAE
• Cyprus
• Greece
• Spain
• Malta
• Costa Rica
• Thailand
• Uruguay
• Panama
• Namibia

Summary of UAE Golden Visa

In this article from Newway, we tried to provide you with comprehensive information about the UAE Golden Visa so that you can use it to migrate to this advanced and modern country and benefit from its advantages.

Overall, the Golden Visa is granted to specific individuals such as investors, elites, students, artists, doctors and nurses, engineers, and more. If you have more questions in this regard or know a specific point not covered in the text, you can leave a comment on Newway's website.

Frequently Asked Questions about the UAE Golden Visa + Answers