Understanding UAE Golden Visa: Who Qualifies & How to Apply

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to attract global talent, entrepreneurs, and investors due to its growing economy and world-class lifestyle. In addition, the UAE golden visa is one of the most sought-after campaigns of the country. Notably, it is a long-term residence permit designed to give stability, flexibility, and exclusive perks to the eligible people and their families. 

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

It is a renewable long-term visa that is valid for 5 or 10 years. So, it allows you to live, work, or study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. In addition, this visa will provide you with the following benefits:

• Multiple-entry six-month entry visa for initial processing.
• Ability to remain outside the UAE for over six months without losing residency.
• Sponsorship of family members, including partner and children of any age.
• Sponsorship of an unlimited number of domestic helpers.
• Family members can remain in the UAE until the visa expiry, even if the primary holder passes away.
• Access to healthcare, education, and government services is similar to UAE citizens.

Who Qualifies for the UAE Golden Visa?

The eligibility of the visa depends on the category, like investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, students, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline heroes. So, we have outlined the eligibility requirements for each category below:

1.  Skilled Professionals & Talents

• Includes doctors, scientists, engineers, creatives, inventors, athletes, and executives.
• Specific requirements may include academic qualifications, recommendation letters, and employment contracts with salaries above AED 50,000.

2. Outstanding Students

High school toppers (minimum 95%) and exceptional university graduates with GPAs of 3.5 or higher from accredited institutions.

3.  Humanitarian Pioneers & Frontline Heroes

• Individuals with distinguished humanitarian contributions.
• Healthcare workers and frontline staff who demonstrated extraordinary service during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

4.  Retirees

Retired individuals with financial stability, including real estate ownership and sufficient funds.

5. Investors

• Investment in an accredited UAE investment fund with a minimum of AED 2 million.
• Real estate investors with property valued at a minimum of AED 2 million also qualify for a 5-year Golden Visa.

6.  Entrepreneurs

• Owners of economic projects of a technical or innovative nature valued at AED 500,000 or more, approved by local authorities and business incubators.

How to Apply for a UAE Golden Visa?

Applying for the Dubai Golden Visa is simple via the ICP portal or the GDRFAD in Dubai. However, you must follow the steps mentioned below:

1. Visit the ICP or GDRFAD website.
2. Select Golden Residency Services.
3. Fill in personal details and upload the required documents.
4. Submit the application and pay the visa processing fee.
5. Track the application online. Processing typically takes a few weeks to one month.

Required Documents

Although the exact documents you need usually depend on the category. Still, we have listed the common documents below:

•  Valid passport copies.
• Proof of investment, business ownership, or employment.
• Bank statements and tax records.
• Health insurance.
• Police clearance certificate.

Final words

The UAE golden visa is an opportunity to create a future in the most dynamic hub in the world. In addition, it gives long-term security, family stability, and exceptional business opportunities. 

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