What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency programme that grants qualifying individuals 10-year renewable residency in the UAE, self-sponsored and independent of employer or company ties.
Unlike a standard employment or investor visa — which expires if you leave your employer or dissolve your company — the Golden Visa remains valid regardless of your employment status. It is one of the most significant quality-of-life improvements for long-term UAE residents.
The Golden Visa was introduced in 2019 and significantly expanded in 2022, with new categories and reduced investment thresholds.
Eligibility Categories
1. Investors in UAE Property
- Minimum property value: AED 2 million (completed, not off-plan)
- The property must not be mortgaged beyond 50% of its value (i.e. equity held must be at least AED 1 million)
- Joint ownership is permitted provided the applicant's share is at least AED 2 million
- Off-plan properties from approved developers may qualify subject to specific conditions
2. Investors / Entrepreneurs
- Investors: AED 2 million+ invested in a UAE enterprise (public investment, commercial company, or investment funds)
- Entrepreneurs: Owner of a UAE startup valued at AED 500,000+, or with the endorsement of a recognised UAE business incubator
3. Skilled Professionals
- Monthly salary of AED 30,000 or more in a skilled profession (Skill Level 1 or 2)
- Must hold an employment contract with a UAE company
- Covers executives, senior engineers, doctors, lawyers, and other high-skilled roles
4. Scientists and Researchers
- Recommended by the UAE's Ministry of Education or Ministry of Health
- Holders of an accredited PhD from UAE or internationally ranked universities in priority STEM fields
5. Outstanding Students
- UAE secondary school graduates with a GPA of 95% or higher
- UAE university students or graduates with a GPA of 3.75 or higher from a UAE or internationally ranked university
- Graduates from the world's top 100 universities
6. Humanitarian Pioneers and Frontliners
- Individuals recognised for humanitarian contributions, as determined by the UAE's relevant authorities
Who Can Be Sponsored Under a Golden Visa?
Golden Visa holders can sponsor:
- Spouse
- Children (sons of any age; daughters of any age if unmarried)
- Household staff (one or more)
- Parents (subject to conditions)
This is a significant improvement over the standard investor visa, which has age limits for sponsoring adult sons.
Application Process
- Establish eligibility — confirm which category applies and gather supporting documents
- Apply via ICP Smart Services portal (icp.gov.ae) or GDRFA (Dubai) / ADGEDI (Abu Dhabi) depending on emirate
- Submit supporting documents — property valuation or title deed, investment documentation, salary certificate, or academic credentials depending on category
- Receive entry permit (for applicants outside the UAE)
- Complete medical and biometrics within the UAE
- Receive Golden Visa (10-year residency stamp) and Emirates ID
Processing time: Typically 3–6 weeks from complete submission. Property-based applications can take longer if a formal valuation is required.
Golden Visa for Business Owners
For founders and business owners, the most straightforward Golden Visa route is typically either:
- AED 2 million+ property — if you own qualifying UAE real estate
- AED 2 million+ company investment — demonstrable capital invested in your UAE entity (paid-up share capital plus documented capital expenditure)
Not all UAE companies qualify for the investment route automatically. Amara assesses Golden Visa eligibility as part of the visa advisory service and coordinates documentation for the application.