United Arab Emirates · investor
UAE Golden Visa
10-year renewable residence visa for investors, entrepreneurs, and outstanding talent across professional categories.
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Overview
The UAE Golden Visa offers 10-year self-sponsored residence to qualifying investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talent (healthcare, science, engineering, arts), outstanding students, and humanitarian pioneers. Unlike many residence visas, it does not require a UAE employer and permits multiple dependants.
Processing time
Varies by category and emirate; typically 2–8 weeks with complete file.
See source window: 2 weeks – 4 weeks →Government fees
AED 2,800–3,800 depending on emirate, plus medical and Emirates ID fees.
Typical duration
10 years, renewable.
Primary source
UAE Government Portal — Golden Visa · UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP)
Link last verified:
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Qualifying investor category — public investment fund deposit, Dubai/Abu Dhabi real estate, or business ownership.
Specialised talent category — qualifying role in medicine, science, education, engineering, or arts with nomination/accreditation.
Outstanding student category — top academic performance at UAE or recognised global university.
Common blockers
Property investment below qualifying thresholds (generally AED 2m for ready property).
Talent category without required professional recognition.
Typical evidence
Property title deeds, investment statements, or employment evidence.
Professional accreditation letters.
Passport and medical fitness certificate.
Application pathway
Step 1
Identify qualifying category
Golden Visa has multiple sub-categories with distinct criteria; choose the right one.
Step 2
Apply via ICP or GDRFA
Federal ICP or Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs, depending on emirate.
Step 3
Medical, biometrics, Emirates ID
Standard post-approval steps.
Step 4
Sponsor family
Spouse, children, and parents can be sponsored without UAE employment.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the UAE Golden Visa require me to live in the UAE?
No. The Golden Visa does not require continuous residence to remain valid, though periodic visits are recommended. This is a material point of differentiation versus most employment residence visas.
Is UAE Golden Visa a path to citizenship?
The UAE has historically not offered naturalisation to long-term residents. Recent reforms created a limited citizenship track, but it is highly selective and not a reliable path for Golden Visa holders to plan around.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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