In recent years, the UAE government has introduced various initiatives to enhance the country’s appeal to foreign investments and talent. One of the most significant among these is the UAE Golden Visa.
In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of a Golden Visa, the eligibility criteria, and how to apply for it.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa allows foreigners to live, work, and invest in the UAE for an extended period of 5 or 10 years. It is intended for individuals who are deemed valuable such as foreign investors planning to start a business or invest in real estate, exceptional talents in the fields of medicine, arts, etc, humanitarians, and business executives.
Benefits of Golden Visa in the UAE
The benefits of a Golden Visa extend beyond simply living and working in the UAE, making it an attractive option for those seeking long-term stability and security.
Here are some of the key advantages:
- No need for local sponsors: Unlike most other residency visas in UAE, the Golden Visa does not require a national sponsor
- Family sponsorship: You can sponsor your family members, including spouse and children regardless of their age, to join you in the UAE
- Long-term residency: The Golden Visa in UAE offer extended stay for 5 or 10 years and is renewable on the same terms
- Travel convenience: As a Golden Visa holder, you can travel and stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months
- Employment and investment opportunities: You can establish a company in the UAE, invest in various sectors, work, and explore entrepreneurial ventures. Furthermore, you can easily open your personal or business bank account in the UAE.
- Sponsor domestic helpers: There is no limit to the number of domestic helpers you can sponsor as a Golden Visa holder
Eligibility Requirements for the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa program is designed to attract and retain investors, entrepreneurs, specialized professionals, and others. Therefore, the eligibility requirements for a Golden Visa vary based on the applicant’s category.
Primarily, 8 categories of foreigners are eligible for a Golden Visa. Here is a general overview of eligibility requirements for each category:
| Category | Eligibility Criteria |
| Real Estate Investors | Property value of AED 2 million or more |
| Investors in Public Investments | Deposit of AED 2 million in an investment fund or business capital |
| Business Executives | Bachelor’s degree or higher; Minimum 5 years of experience in the same role; Salary certificate with at least AED 30,000 in salary |
| Entrepreneurs | Technical/future-oriented project valued at least AED 500,000; Requires approvals from authorities and incubators |
| Outstanding Specialised Talents | Professionals in medicine, science, arts, etc., with recognized qualifications and recommendations |
| Outstanding Students | High school or university students with top grades; Graduates from top 100 global universities with high GPA |
| Humanitarian Pioneers | Significant contributions to humanitarian work; Recognition or awards in humanitarian fields |
| Frontline Heroes | Significant contributions in crises; Recommendation from the competent authority |
Recent Amendments in the UAE Golden Visa Requirements
In January 2024, the UAE government made further amendments to Golden Visa eligibility requirements to make it more accessible.
For instance, If you invest in an off-plan property valued at AED 2 Million, there is no requirement related to how much has been paid toward it. You just need to show an NOC from the property developer indicating that the payments are being made.
Similarly, if you get a mortgage in UAE for AED 2 Million or more, you can apply for a Golden Visa.
Process for Getting a UAE Golden Visa with Emerhub
Emerhub’s team of experts has deep knowledge and experience about different types of visas in the UAE and can assist you with every step of the visa application process:
- Check for Eligibility: Our team schedules a brief call with you to determine your eligibility and the most suitable category
- Collect the Required Documents: We collect all required documents and help clients get NOCs from their real estate developer or employer
- Documents Submission to Relevant Authorities: Emerhub submits the documents to relevant authorities and if required, helps investors get a multiple entry visa which would allow investors to visit the UAE and complete the proceedings.
- Visa Nomination: We apply for a visa nomination on behalf of the client
For more personalized information, fill out the form below. We will put you in touch with one of our advisors who will determine your eligibility and start your UAE Golden Visa application process.
