UAE Golden Visa: Benefits, Requirements, Processing Time

The introduction of the UAE Golden Visa has caused a stir in the minds of foreigners and residents of the United Arab Emirates. Every other individual is willing to obtain this visa in order to secure permanent residency in the country. A variety of eligibility categories apply to this visa type. Whereas, the economy is expected to boost further with the arrival of fresh talent in the country. It is highly likely that the UAE will become one of the most important financial and investment hubs in the world.

UAE Golden Visa: All You Need To Know About Application Process

Here we discuss the UAE Golden Visa, its eligibility criteria, benefits, requirements, processing time, fees, and more.

UAE Golden Visa: What Is It?

Individuals outside of the UAE can apply for a Golden Visa to live, study, or work in the country for as long as 10 years. The visa type is renewable and offers these opportunities to businesses, investors, and talented individuals.

The United Arab Emirates introduced this specific visa type to attract foreign investments and professionals. Aside from residing and working in the country, its holders enjoy numerous benefits. These include access to quality healthcare, education, and the ability to sponsor family members. The beneficiaries of this visa have the authority to apply for their loved ones’ residency. The validity of this document is 10 years after which it can be renewed.

Also check out: How to Apply Unemployment Insurance Scheme in UAE 2024?

UAE Golden Visa Benefits

This visa type has various benefits. Some of them are described below.

• Holders of this document can live outside the country for more than six months without getting their visa
• The authorities grant this visa with a validity of 10 years and allow renewal after expiration.
• The family members of this cardholder can reside in the UAE until the expiration of their permit duration given that the document owner passes
• Authorities grant an entry visa for six months, permitting multiple entries, after which they issue residency permits to holders.
• Holders can sponsor a limitless number of domestic help with
• A self-sponsored visa.
• Parents of primary visa owners are granted 10-year residency without additional

The visa owners are also entitled to additional benefits from each Emirate.

Golden Visa Insurances

Golden Visa holders can apply for insurance coverage ranging between AED 2,000 – 5,000. It depends on various factors such as hospital, age, health condition, etc. Daman, National Health Insurance Coverage Company has introduced their programs for this document holders. This program has a 1-year validity period, after which it is renewable. It offers various packages depending on your chosen plan and age.

Dubai

• Residents of Dubai can apply for a license if they hold a golden visa and have a license in their home country. They are not required to take additional training before applying for it.
• In addition, visa holders possessing a driver’s license from any of the 32 countries on its list will automatically qualify for the UAE’s driver’s license. These countries include Ireland, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, South Africa, Italy, the US, Spain, the UK, Qatar, Australia, etc.
• Crowned Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has announced a groundbreaking initiative: granting 10-year residency to Golden Visa holders in Dubai. Exceptional foreign talents and their close family members will benefit, enabling them to pursue higher education at any university in the Emirate. This exciting development opens new doors for education and talent, enhancing Dubai’s vibrant community.

Abu Dhabi

• Golden Visa holders receive discounts on various facilities, including the purchase of cars, health insurance, hospitality, property, banking services, and more. The authorities have taken renowned companies on board to provide these facilities to holders.
• Golden Visa holders will receive a special price reduction for vehicle purchases. In addition to maintenance offers, payment facilities, and licensing services, they will have priority booking on the latest models.
• Abu Dhabi residents will receive special discounts on Imkan Properties properties. This program is offered under the Abu Dhabi Residents Office’s commercial partnerships.
• Holders of the UAE Golden Visa will receive special discounts on gyms, spas, restaurants, and other hospitality services.
• Renowned UAE banks such as NBAD and FAB will offer UAE Golden Visa investors reduced mortgages and fixed interest rates. They will also offer attractive savings rates to non-real estate investors.
• Families and individuals who hold the plan will be eligible for a reduction in their premiums. A wide range of network coverage will be offered along with a range of benefits within and outside of the country.

Esaad Privilege Card

The holder of the UAE Golden Visa with 5 and 10-year validity will receive the prestigious Esaad Privilege Card in Dubai.

Below are the categories of Golden Visa holders that will qualify for the issuance of this card.

• Exceptional university and high school graduates
• Investors in public investment funds
• D. degree holders specializing in engineering, humanitarian aid workers, or science
• Real estate investors
• Executive directors
• Entrepreneurs
• Professional sport players
• Specialised academics
• Artists and cultural creators
• People with specialized talents
• Researchers in science and knowledge, such as specialists, scientists, doctors, and inventors

UAE Golden Visa Requirements

As per the recent announcement, the UAE Golden Visa categories have been expanded. The latest addition to the list of eligible applicants includes fourth industrial revolutionaries, senior scholars, education and health specialists, and clerics.

Following are the categories of candidates now eligible for the UAE Golden Visa.

Golden Visa UAE for Skilled Professionals

The UAE government has expanded the list of skilled professionals eligible for a Golden Visa. Now the list includes and isn’t limited to IT, science and engineering, social sciences, education, and other fields.

Skilled professionals are now eligible to apply for this visa under the following conditions.

• They must possess a bachelor’s degree.
• Applicants must hold a valid UAE employment contract.
• Their minimum salary should not be less than AED 30,000 a month.
• As per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, they must fall under occupational level 2 as defined by the Ministry.

Note: As per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, skilled professionals who fall under the category of first and second occupational levels are eligible for an extended 6 month grace period.

Golden Visa UAE for Executives

Executives are required to meet the following requirements:

• A valid UAE work contract.
• A minimum bachelor’s degree from a recognized university accredited by the Ministry of Education.
• Salary certificate with a minimum salary of AED 50,000.
• A letter showing experience of a minimum of 5 years in the same position.

Golden Visa UAE for Students

Students who have exceptional academic records and excellent grades in their secondary schools or universities are also eligible for the 10-year UAE Golden Visa.

If you are a high-school student or a national topper who has obtained a score more than or equal to 95 in public or private institutions, you may be granted a Golden Visa without a sponsor. A recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education (Emirates Schools Establishment) should be submitted in this regard.

Moreover, exceptional students who have studied at the world’s top universities are also eligible for the UAE Golden Visa. However, it depends on your cumulative grade point average, university classification, and graduation year.

An outstanding university student might be granted a 10-year UAE Golden Visa with a sponsor under the following conditions.

• The university is classified as A or B by the Ministry of Education.
• There should not be a 2-year gap or more since graduation.
• A recommendation letter or an accredited graduation certificate from the university stating that the student’s CGPA was not less than 3.5 for A-class universities and 3.8 for B-class universities.

Foreign students with exceptional grades might be granted a 10-year UAE Golden Visa under the following circumstances.

• According to the Ministry of Education rating system, the university should be ranked amongst the top 100 universities worldwide.
• The cumulative grade point average should not be less than 3.5.
• There should not be a 2-year gap or more since graduation.
• The graduation certificate must be authorized by the Ministry of Education.

Note: Students who recently completed their studies are eligible for an extended 6-month grace period.

Golden Visa UAE for Scientists

The UAE grants the Golden Visa to scientists and researchers under the following conditions.

• • Candidate must hold a master’s or doctoral degree from any of the world’s top universities in natural sciences, engineering, life sciences, and technology.
  • Such candidates must possess a recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council to avail of this visa or a letter from the Secretariat of the Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence. This letter should state that the candidate has been awarded the Medal of Scientific Excellence.

Golden Visa UAE for Entrepreneurs and Startup Owners

If their company is registered in the UAE, startup owners and entrepreneurs qualify for the Golden Visa. Their company should fall under SME (Small and Medium Enterprises) if it generates an annual revenue of AED 1 million or above. Apart from this, entrepreneurs are also eligible for this visa under the following conditions.

• The entrepreneur is or was the founder of a previous business sold for AED 7 million or more.
• Projects or ideas require approval from the Ministry of Economy or the competent local authorities

A 10-year UAE Golden Visa is also available to entrepreneurs with projects based on innovation and risk, such as future or technical projects. Moreover, you should also obtain an approval letter from each of the following.

• A UAE-accredited business incubator is required to establish the proposed activity.
• An auditor in the UAE claimed that the business’s net value is not less than AED 500,000.
• According to authorities, the project relates to the future or a technical issue.

Golden Visa UAE for Exceptional Talents

Under the Golden Visa scheme, exceptionally talented individuals in the fields of medicine, digital technology, innovation, art, sports, law, culture, and others are eligible to apply. Here are a few examples of the most outstanding skills:

• PhD degree holders
• Sports Council or the General Sports Authority recommendation letter
• An approval letter from the Department of Culture and Arts in the respective Emirates.
• Sports-persons
• Inventors
• Culturally and artistically creative individuals

Exceptionally talented individuals receive a 10-year visa without scrutiny of qualifications or salary. Authorities require an approval or recommendation letter, recognizing talent’s value and simplifying the process, empowering individuals to thrive in the UAE.

Golden Visa for Preachers and Religious Researchers

As per the latest announcement, the UAE government is now offering 10-year UAE Golden Visas to religious researchers, muezzins, muftis, preachers, and mosque imams. Such individuals should have served more than 20 years in the country.

This decision recognizes and appreciates these religious leaders for their tremendous contributions to the community’s well-being. Apart from the Golden Visa, these scholars will also receive monetary benefits on Eid-Al-Fitr in appreciation of their commitment and service.

Golden Visa UAE for Real Estate Investors

Real estate investors should fulfill any of the following conditions to obtain a Golden Visa.

• Purchase a property with a loan from an accredited financial institution, or
• The purchase of one or more completed or off-plan properties whose price must exceed AED 2 million from a list of approved local real estate companies.
• Purchase of property worth AED 2 million or more.

To apply for a Golden Visa, applicants must submit the registration documents issued by real estate investors in the Emirate.

The UAE now grants expatriates with property 90 days to renew or cancel their residency visa. They must either amend their status and obtain a new residency visa or leave the country. Whereas, fines are not applicable during the grace period.

The United Arab Emirates grants property owners a renewable 5-year residency visa without a sponsor if they meet the following conditions.

• Property acquisition with a loan from a local bank approved by the local authority.
• An official letter from the land department of the respective emirate stating that the applicant has at least a property valued at AED 2 million.

Golden Visa UAE for Exceptional Talents

Under the Golden Visa scheme, exceptionally talented individuals in the fields of medicine, digital technology, innovation, art, sports, law, culture, and others are eligible to apply. Here are a few examples of the most outstanding skills:

• PhD degree holders
• Sports Council or the General Sports Authority recommendation letter
• An approval letter from the Department of Culture and Arts in the respective Emirates.
• Sports-persons
• Inventors
• Culturally and artistically creative individuals

Individuals with exceptional talent will receive a 10-year visa based solely on their skills. They will not make inquiries about their educational qualifications, professional background, employment status, or monthly salary. However, they must obtain approval or a recommendation letter from the relevant authorities. This streamlined process emphasizes the value placed on unique abilities, offering a direct route for talented individuals to contribute to the UAE’s dynamic community.

Golden Visa for Preachers and Religious Researchers

As per the latest announcement, the UAE government is now offering 10-year UAE Golden Visas to religious researchers, muezzins, muftis, preachers, and mosque imams. Such individuals should have served more than 20 years in the country.

As a result of this decision, the community recognizes and appreciates these religious leaders for their tremendous contributions to well-being. Apart from the Golden Visa, these scholars will also receive monetary benefits on Eid-Al-Fitr in appreciation of their commitment and service.

Golden Visa UAE for Real Estate Investors

Real estate investors should fulfill any of the following conditions to obtain a Golden Visa.

• Purchase a property with a loan from an accredited financial institution, or
• The purchase of one or more completed or off-plan properties whose price must exceed AED 2 million from a list of approved local real estate companies.
• Purchase of property worth AED 2 million or more.

To apply for a Golden Visa, applicants must submit the registration documents issued by real estate investors in the Emirate.

Expatriates with property in the UAE now have 90 days to renew or cancel their residency visa. Therefore, they must either amend their status to obtain another residency visa or leave the country. Whereas, fines are not applicable during the grace period.

The UAE grants property owners a renewable 5-year residency visa without a sponsor if they meet the following conditions.

• Property acquisition with a loan from a local bank approved by the local authority.
• An official letter from the land department of the respective emirate stating that the applicant has at least a property valued at AED 2 million.

Golden Visa for Exceptional Coders 

The UAE Government has announced the provision of Golden Visas for computer programmers with exceptional skills worldwide. In order to train around 100,000 coding experts, the government has teamed up with some of the most renowned technology companies such as Amazon, Google, Meta, etc. Interested candidates can apply for this program through The National Program for Coders. To qualify, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Applicants should have graduated in artificial intelligence, electrical engineering, hardware engineering, software engineering, information technology, data science, computer science, and big data.
• The candidates should be computer experts and talented coders with success in various technical fields.
• Individuals who work for the establishment of pioneering international technology companies.

Golden Visa UAE for Public Investors

If investors meet the following requirements, the UAE grants them a 10-year Golden Visa without needing a sponsor for their investment in UAE funds.

• Submission of a letter by the country’s government stating that the investor pays the government AED 250,000 or more annually.
• Submission of an investment fund letter accredited in the country stating that the investor has a deposit of AED 2 million or more.
• A letter from the memorandum of association from a valid commercial or industrial trading license. This letter states that the investor’s capital is AED 2 million or above.

In addition, an investor must:

• Provide proof of medical insurance for themselves and their families.
• The invested capital should be their own and not a bank loan.

Golden Visa UAE for Doctors and Nurses

In recognition of their sacrifices and services to the nation, the UAE grants a Golden Visa to doctors and nurses.

Medical practitioners who served in the first-line defense during the COVID-19 outbreak may get a Golden Visa with the approval of the competent authorities. These individuals include lab technicians, nurses, doctors, medical assistants, pharmacologists, etc. The Frontline Heroes Office approves these cadres, and visas are issued based on their recommendations. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship has established seven centers across the country, ensuring swift and efficient processing for its dedicated heroes. These centers are for eligible applicants to apply for visas in person.

Doctors should provide an approval letter from the UAE’s Ministry of Health and Prevention to apply for this visa.

Golden Visa UAE for Humanitarian Pioneers

If you are a humanitarian or social worker, you might get a UAE Golden Visa for 10 years. To qualify, individuals must meet any of the following criteria for applying as a humanitarian pioneer.

• Humanitarian cause funders provided that donated funds should not be less than AED 2 million or its equivalent.
• Members and exceptional employees of such organizations who have served for 5 years or more.
• Social workers who have received appreciation and awards for serving as humanitarian workers.
• Members and outstanding employees who have served in institutions of public interest and civil associations for 5 years or more.

Golden Visa UAE for Specialists in Engineering and Science

Engineers and scientists should provide a copy of a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree attested by the Ministry of Education along with a work contract. Following are the fields included in this category.

• Genetics and biotechnology engineering
• Software engineering
• Electronic engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Artificial intelligence
• Epidemiology and viruses
• Big data

Golden Visa Expanded Categories for Abu Dhabi

The government of Abu Dhabi has expanded its categories for UAE Golden Visa eligibility. These are the general criteria applied to all categories.

• A salary certificate issued by the employer stating that the applicant’s monthly salary is not less than AED 30,000.
• Eligible candidates must hold a role under the MoHRE’s occupational classification scheme.
• Applicant must hold a valid practicing license in the country. These categories include medical practitioners, pharmacists, teachers, etc.
• Such individuals must be employed in the United Arab Emirates.
• He/she must hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or equivalent degree.

UAE Golden Visa Documents Required

Following are the newly introduced categories along with their requirements below. You can match your profile according to these fields and can submit the required documents accordingly.

Experts in the health field

A letter of recommendation from the Ministry of Health or the Abu Dhabi Health Department.

Senior clerics and scholars

A letter of recommendation from the Ministry of Youth and Culture or an equivalent local authority.

Skilled professionals

• An employment certificate
• A valid Emirate’s Ministry practising licence
• A UAE-approved employment contract
• Attested bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• A letter of evidence stating that the applicant holds a MOHRE’s occupational classification scheme Level 1 or 2 position.

UAE Golden Visa Application Process

Application Procedure through GDRFA

Eligible candidates can apply through the official GDRFA website and follow the instructions below.

• Go to the official GDRFA Dubai website.
• Search for your desired Golden Visa service.
• Fill in the visa application form.
• Attach the documents required and pay the fees.
• Submit your visa application.

Also, the eligible candidates can also apply through the Smart Mobile Application of Dubai GDRGA by following the instructions below.

• Download and install the official GDRFA Dubai Mobile App (Android, iOS).
• Those who are new to the application must register by providing their information.
• After logging in, select the required service.
• Attach the required documents and pay the fees.
• Submit your visa request.

Note: Eligible candidates can also apply for the UAE Golden Visa through the Amer centers in Dubai.

Application Procedure through ICA

Eligible candidates can also apply for the UAE Golden Visa through the ICA Smart Service platform. There are quite a few steps involved in the process. Those willing to relocate along with their businesses must visit the website, fill in the visa application, submit their required documents, pay the fees, and submit the application.

UAE Golden Visa Price

The price of the UAE Golden Visa varies if a candidate applies from within or outside the Emirates. For instance, if an applicant applies from within the UAE, it will cost AED 2,800 to AED 3,800. Whereas, if applying from outside this country, the applicant will have to bear a cost between AED 3,800 and AED 4,800. Moreover, both cases incur an application fee of AED 150 and around AED 1,000 for a medical examination.

Additionally, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has amended the entry permit fees for those applying for a UAE Golden Visa for 10-year validity.

The six-month entry permit fees have been revised to AED 1,250. This also includes the AED 100 application cost, AED 1,000 issuance fee, AED 28 electronic services fee, AED 100 smart services charges, and AED 22 for the ICP.

UAE Golden Visa Validity

The UAE government has increased the Golden Visa validity from 5 to 10 years. Those who wish to reside and work in the country find it even more attractive. Visa holders can obtain a multiple-entry visa for 6 months to fulfill its formalities, apart from this.

Additionally, Golden Visa holders can reside outside the UAE for over six months. After the visa expiration, they and their families enjoy a 6-month grace period. Expatriates can use this time to apply for a new visa or make arrangements to leave the country.

During the grace period, authorities exclude fines. However, if authorities do not renew or cancel the visa of dependents of this visa holder, they may incur an overstay fine.

UAE Golden Visa Processing Time

An individual applying for the UAE Golden Visa will receive an email from the concerned authorities within 30 days. They will consider the status of your visa application and highlight it. Once approved, you will receive an email to submit the required documents for the process.

After you submit your documents, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship will thoroughly review your case. If they find your application satisfactory, they will grant you a visa. If you reside in the UAE, the authorities will issue you a one-month temporary visa that you can convert into a residency permit, enabling you to establish your presence and thrive in this vibrant country.

UAE Golden Visa Extension

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security UAE (ICP) confirmed that individuals can extend or cancel their UAE Golden Visa through their personal online accounts. This also adheres to the document used to finalize the residency of foreign nationals entering the UAE.

This revised policy applies to:

• Applications for a golden visa for six months with multiple entries.
• Normal visas and green residency visas take two months to process.

Conclusion

Upon obtaining a UAE Golden Visa, individuals from different backgrounds can look forward to a variety of benefits. These include long-term residency and greater economic security in a growing business hub. This visa not only simplifies the requirements and expedites the processing time but also opens up a wide range of opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals looking to make this country home for the long term. As the nation continues to welcome talent from across the globe, the Golden Visa reflects its commitment to developing a multicultural and welcoming environment. If you are considering making a major move, this document could be your ticket to a better future.