Overview
The Golden Visa is a ten-year, renewable residence for people the UAE wants to attract. You sponsor yourself, so it does not depend on an employer, and staying outside the UAE for more than six months does not cancel it.
Main categories
| Category | What it typically needs |
|---|---|
| Property investors | Property worth at least AED 2 million (a mortgaged property can count with an approved bank) |
| Investors | A deposit or investment of at least AED 2 million in an approved fund or company |
| Entrepreneurs | An approved project or a successful startup, as assessed by the relevant authority |
| Skilled professionals | A bachelor's degree, a monthly salary of at least AED 30,000 and a job at skill level 1 or 2 |
| Outstanding students and graduates | High grades in UAE schools or universities, or from top-ranked universities |
| Exceptional talents, scientists, humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes | A nomination or recommendation from the relevant authority |
Requirements
A valid passport, the documents of your category (for example a title deed or an attested degree and salary certificate), a medical fitness test inside the UAE and Emirates ID biometrics.
Family benefits
Holders can sponsor their spouse and children, and the family can stay until the end of their permits if the holder dies.
Costs
Fees depend on the emirate and the category. Check the current amounts with ICP or, in Dubai, GDRFA before you apply.
Timeline
Once a category is approved, the residence and Emirates ID usually follow within a few weeks.
Recommended next step
Find the category you fit, then confirm its documents on the ICP website or, if you live in Dubai, with GDRFA.