What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the
Who is Eligible for the UAE Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa caters to a diverse range of individuals who meet specific criteria across various categories.
- Investors: Individuals who have made significant financial investments in the UAE, whether in real estate (minimum AED 2 million), investment funds (minimum AED 2 million), or by establishing or partnering in a UAE-based company with a capital of at least AED 2 million.
- Entrepreneurs: Founders or co-founders of successful startups that meet specific criteria related to innovation and potential growth.
The project should have a valuation of at least AED 500,000, as certified by an auditor in the UAE, and should be of a technical or future nature with approval from the relevant authorities. - Highly Skilled Professionals: Individuals with specialized talents and expertise in fields such as science, medicine, engineering, education, technology, and art.
This category often requires a bachelor's degree or higher, a minimum of five years of relevant experience, and a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000 for some professions. Doctors and scientists require specific approvals from relevant UAE authorities. - Outstanding Students and Graduates: High-achieving students with a minimum grade of 95% in secondary school or outstanding graduates from top-ranked international or UAE-based universities.
- Humanitarian Pioneers: Individuals with significant contributions to humanitarian work, including those who have worked for at least five years in international or regional organizations, received awards for their humanitarian efforts, or made substantial financial donations (at least AED 2 million) to humanitarian causes.
- Frontline Heroes: Professionals who demonstrated extraordinary efforts during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, including nurses, medical assistants, and other approved cadres.
- Creative Talents: Individuals with exceptional talent in culture, arts, sports, and digital technology, often requiring recommendation letters from relevant authorities in the respective emirate.
Benefits of Obtaining a UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa offers numerous advantages, making it a highly sought-after long-term residency option:
- Long-Term Residency: Enjoy the stability of a 5 or 10-year renewable visa, providing a secure foundation for personal and professional growth in the UAE.
- No Sponsor Required: Unlike traditional visas, Golden Visa holders do not need an Emirati sponsor or employer, offering greater independence and flexibility.
- Extended Stays Outside the UAE: Holders can stay outside the UAE for more than the usual six-month limit without jeopardizing their residency status.
- Sponsorship of Family Members: Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouses, children (unmarried daughters of any age and sons under 25), and, in some cases, parents and domestic staff.
- Access to World-Class Healthcare and Education: Benefit from the UAE's advanced healthcare system and gain access to premium educational institutions.
- Tax Advantages: The UAE offers a favorable tax regime with no income tax, making it an attractive destination for professionals and investors.
While a 9% corporate tax was introduced in 2023 for companies with profits exceeding AED 375,000, personal income remains untaxed. - Business and Investment Opportunities: Explore unparalleled flexibility in employment and business, with opportunities to establish companies in Free Zones with 100% foreign ownership and no corporate tax for qualifying businesses.
- Visa-Free Travel and Visa on Arrival Privileges: While specific visa-free travel arrangements vary, the Golden Visa can provide easier access to other countries.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Reside in one of the safest and most prosperous countries globally, with access to world-class leisure and entertainment facilities.
- VIP Services: In some emirates, Golden Visa holders may have access to premium airport services and other exclusive benefits.
How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa
The application process for the Golden Visa varies depending on the specific category of eligibility.
- Identifying the Eligible Category: Determine which category aligns with your qualifications and investments.
- Gathering Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documents, which may include passport copies, proof of investment or professional qualifications, educational certificates, medical insurance, and other supporting documents specific to your category.
- Submitting the Application: Applications can be submitted through the website or mobile application of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) or through other designated government channels in each emirate, such as the Dubai Land Department for real estate investors.
- Medical Examination: Applicants over 18 years old are typically required to undergo a medical fitness test in a UAE-approved medical center.
- Emirates ID Application: Once the visa is approved, applicants need to apply for their Emirates ID card.
Conclusion
The UAE Golden Visa represents a significant step towards attracting and retaining global talent and investment, fostering innovation, and bolstering the nation's economy.
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