UAE Golden Visa
Long-term UAE residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and high earners
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Eligibility Requirements
Step-by-Step Application Process
Determine Your Eligibility Category
Identify which Golden Visa category you qualify under: high earner (salary), investor (property or funds), entrepreneur, or specialized talent. Each category has different documentation requirements.
1 day- The investor route via real estate (AED 2M+ property) is the most straightforward path
- Salary-based applicants need an employment contract or verifiable income proof
- If you do not meet any category, consider the Green Visa (5 years) or Digital Nomad Visa (1 year) as alternatives
Prepare Financial and Professional Documents
Gather proof of income, investment, or professional credentials depending on your category. All documents must be translated to English or Arabic and attested by the UAE embassy in your home country.
1-2 weeks- For investors: obtain title deeds or fund statements showing AED 2M+ investment
- For salary earners: get an employment contract, salary certificate, and 6 months of bank statements
- Attestation involves: notarization in your country, then authentication by your foreign ministry, then UAE embassy attestation
- Some documents may also require MOFA (UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs) attestation upon arrival
Apply via ICP Portal or Approved Typing Center
Submit your application through the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) smart services portal online, or visit an approved typing center (Amer center) in the UAE for in-person assistance.
1 day- The ICP portal (smartservices.icp.gov.ae) handles most applications
- For Dubai specifically, apply through GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs)
- Typing centers can help if you find the online process confusing - they charge AED 100-300 for assistance
- You will need to create a UAE Pass account for the online application
Complete Biometrics and Medical Test
After initial approval, attend a biometrics appointment (fingerprinting and photo) and complete the mandatory medical fitness test at an authorized health center in the UAE.
1-3 days- The medical test includes a blood test and chest X-ray
- Results are typically available within 24-48 hours
- You must be in the UAE for this step
- Some free zones offer expedited medical testing
Obtain Emirates ID
Apply for your Emirates ID, which is the UAE national identification card required for all residents. This is typically processed alongside your visa application.
3-7 days- Emirates ID is essential for opening bank accounts, renting property, and daily life
- The card is usually delivered to your registered address or collected from a service center
- Cost is AED 370 for a 10-year Golden Visa ID
Receive Golden Visa Stamp
Once all steps are completed, your Golden Visa is stamped in your passport (or issued electronically). You are now a 10-year UAE resident with the right to live, work, and sponsor dependents.
1-3 days- You can sponsor your spouse, children, and domestic helpers on your Golden Visa
- Unlike standard visas, Golden Visa holders do not lose residency status if they stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months
- You only need to visit the UAE once every 6 months within any 2-year period to maintain status
- Open a UAE bank account immediately after receiving your Emirates ID
Required Documents
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Visa application fee | AED 2,800 (~$760 USD) | Government processing fee |
| Residence permit issuance | AED 1,150 (~$310 USD) | Stamping fee |
| Emirates ID (10-year) | AED 370 (~$100 USD) | National ID card fee |
| Medical fitness test | AED 500-600 (~$150 USD) | Blood test and chest X-ray at authorized center |
| Typing center / service fees | AED 200-500 (~$55-135 USD) | Application form preparation and submission assistance |
| Document attestation | $200-500 USD | Varies by country; notarization + foreign ministry + embassy attestation |
Timeline Overview
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I pay any income tax as a UAE Golden Visa holder?
No. The UAE has zero personal income tax, zero capital gains tax, and zero tax on foreign or domestic income for individuals. There is a 9% corporate tax on business profits above AED 375,000, but this does not apply to personal income.
How long can I stay outside the UAE without losing my Golden Visa?
Golden Visa holders have significantly more flexibility than standard visa holders. You must visit the UAE at least once every 6 months within any 2-year period. Standard visa holders lose residency after 6 months abroad.
Can I sponsor my family on the Golden Visa?
Yes. You can sponsor your spouse, children (regardless of age), and first-degree relatives. You can also sponsor domestic helpers. Each dependent has additional processing fees.
Can I work for any employer or freelance on the Golden Visa?
Yes. The Golden Visa allows you to work for any UAE employer, establish your own business, or freelance. You are not tied to a single sponsor, unlike standard employment visas.
What is the difference between the Golden Visa and the Green Visa?
The Golden Visa is 10 years and requires high income (AED 30K/mo) or significant investment (AED 2M+). The Green Visa is 5 years, has lower requirements (AED 360K income over 2 years), and is self-sponsored but requires you to not stay outside the UAE for more than 6 consecutive months.
Can I buy property to qualify for the Golden Visa?
Yes. Purchasing UAE real estate valued at AED 2,000,000 ($545,000 USD) or more qualifies you under the investor category. The property must be completed (not off-plan) and held in your name. Mortgaged properties count as long as total value meets the threshold.