The Golden Visa is a long-term resident visa that enables foreign talent to live, work or study in the UAE while enjoying special benefits. Investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarians, and front-line heroes are eligible for the Golden Visa. Please read about Golden Visa requirements and benefits and find digital services to apply for it.
What is Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program designed to allow eligible individuals to live, work, and invest in the UAE without the need for a traditional employment-based or sponsorship-based visa. A golden visa is usually granted for 10 years and can be renewed as long as the visa holder meets certain conditions.
How to Apply for a Golden Visa?
Check your eligibility before applying for a Dubai Golden Visa. Based on the information you provide, there is a list of categories you can apply for.
- Go to the official website and select the Services option on the page.
- On the drop-down menu, click channels Residency and Citizenship.
- You will be taken to the ‘Browse Smart Service’ page.
- Click on the Golden Residency option.
- Scroll down and select the type of Golden Visa service you wish to apply for.
- Click Start Service and start your Dubai Golden Visa application process.
There are several parts to the application process, you must fill each box with correct information.
- Fill in your details.
- Attach your documentation.
- Review your Visa Application.
- And lastly, pay the application fee.
Benefits of UAE Golden Visa
The Dubai Golden Visa benefits eligible individuals who have been granted this long-term residence permit. Specific benefits vary depending on the category under which the Golden Visa is obtained, but here are some of the main benefits:
- Long-term residency: Golden visas allow individuals to stay in the UAE for an extended time, usually 5 or 10 years.
- Work privileges: Golden visa holders have the right to work in the UAE without the need for a separate work permit or employment contract. This flexibility is particularly attractive to professionals and entrepreneurs.
- No Sponsorship Required: Unlike traditional UAE resident visas, the Golden Visa does not require an Emirati sponsor or a local employer. This means that individuals have more autonomy and freedom in their professional and personal lives.
- Access to services: Golden visa holders and their families can access a variety of government services, including healthcare, education, and amenities, on par with UAE nationals.
- Business Opportunities: For investors and entrepreneurs, the Golden Visa offers opportunities to set up and grow a business in the UAE. It also supports entrepreneurship and innovation in the country.
- Tax Benefits: The UAE is known for its favorable tax environment. There is no personal income tax or capital gains tax in the UAE. Golden Visa holders can take advantage of these benefits, potentially resulting in significant financial savings.
- Real estate investment: The Golden Visa has attracted real estate investors, as it allows them to invest in Dubai’s property market and other sectors, allowing for capital gains and rental income. Paths open up.
- Education opportunities: Golden visa holders can enroll their children in UAE schools and universities, offering access to high-quality educational institutions.
- Residence for Dependents: The Golden Visa extends to the primary visa holder’s spouse and dependent children, providing family reunification benefits.
- Retirement: For retirees, the Golden Visa offers the option of retirement in this dynamic and diverse country.
- Global mobility: UAE residents, including Golden Visa holders, enjoy excellent international flights through major UAE airports, making travel and business networking much easier.
Who can apply for a UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa has special benefits that enable individuals to live, work, and study in the UAE. Business visas also fall under the Golden Visa system for business owners. By obtaining a visa, you can enter Dubai for six months on a multiple-entry basis or a long-term renewable residence visa that is valid for 5 or 10 years. Also, an individual can sponsor their family members.
UAE Golden Visa is granted based on your abilities, type of residence and occupation. People who are eligible for Golden Visa UAE include the following:
Investor:
- If you invest in an investment fund, you will be given a golden visa for 10 years without a sponsor.
- You will need to submit a letter from an approved investment fund in the UAE. You must state that the investor has deposited AED 20 lakhs. Or, you can submit a valid industrial/trade license and a memorandum of association. You need to state that the investor’s capital is not less than AED 2 million.
- You will need to submit a letter from the Federal Tax Authority. Here, you need to state that the investor pays no less than AED 250,000 annually to the government.
- Additionally, an individual must own fully invested capital (no debt) and provide proof of medical insurance.
Entrepreneurs:
- If you have a technical or future-oriented economic project, you will get a golden visa for 5 years.
- In UAE the auditor should declare that the project cost is not less than AED 500,000.
- Your project is technological or futuristic in nature, based on risk and innovation, as declared by the relevant authorities.
Skilled Professionals:
- It includes professionals with special skills or contributions that benefit Dubai’s development.
- Highly skilled and talented people in various fields including science, technology, art and culture.
- Outstanding Students:
- Exceptional students who have been accepted by recognized universities or educational institutions in Dubai.
Retirees:
- Retirees with a certain level of financial stability.
- Retirees must meet certain financial criteria to qualify for the Golden Visa.
Real Estate Investors:
- Golden Visa for real estate investors will be granted for 5 years.
- For this you need to provide a letter from the Lands Department stating that you own one or more properties. The price must not be less than AED 2 million.
- If you have purchased the property by taking a loan from a bank, which is approved by a competent local authority.
Outstanding Special Skills:
- If you meet the following conditions, you will get a golden visa for 10 years.
- Letter of approval from the Ministry of Health and Prevention in the United Arab Emirates.
- A letter of recommendation from the Emirates Council of Scientists must state that the applicant has been awarded the Medal of Scientific Excellence.