UAE Golden Visa & Long-Term Residency Guide
Eligibility Overview
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a 10-year renewable Golden Visa to investors, professionals, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent — without needing a local sponsor. You can live in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other emirate while keeping your original citizenship.
Who Can Apply:
- Property investors with AED 2 million+ in UAE real estate
(AED = United Arab Emirates Dirham, the local currency) - Entrepreneurs with a UAE-based company
- Professionals earning <strong>AED 30,000+ per month</strong> (about USD $8,000)
- Scientists, doctors, engineers, creatives, and researchers
- Top graduates and high-performing students from UAE universities
Special Exception: No minimum stay required. You don’t need to live in the UAE full-time to keep your visa. This makes it ideal for remote professionals, frequent travelers, and global citizens.
Step-by-Step Process
- Choose Your Path: Investor, skilled worker, entrepreneur, or special talent.
- Gather Your Documents: Passport, UAE health insurance, proof of funds or credentials, and criminal record clearance.
- Apply Through ICP or GDRFA: Submit your application to:
- ICP – Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship
- GDRFA – General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (Dubai)
- Entry Permit (if applying from abroad): You’ll receive a 6-month visa to enter the UAE and complete the process.
- Complete Medical and Biometrics: Attend a UAE clinic for a health screening and fingerprinting.
- Receive Your Golden Visa: Your 10-year residence permit is issued and can be renewed indefinitely.
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
- 10-year renewable residency with no local sponsor
- Live in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any emirate
- Zero personal income tax or capital gains tax
- Sponsor your spouse, children (no age limit if unmarried), and domestic workers
- Access top-tier healthcare, education, and public services
- No physical presence required to keep your residency
- Maintain your original citizenship — UAE allows dual residency but not dual nationality
Frequently asked questions.
Can I work in the UAE with this visa?
Yes. Golden Visa holders can live, work, and study in the UAE without needing a local sponsor or employer.
Do I need to live in the UAE full-time?
No. There’s no physical presence requirement to maintain your Golden Visa status.
Can I include my family?
Yes. You can sponsor your spouse, children (even adult children if unmarried), and household staff.
Does the Golden Visa lead to UAE citizenship?
Not directly. UAE citizenship is very limited and typically granted by special decree. The Golden Visa is for long-term residency only.
Are there taxes in the UAE?
No. There is no personal income tax, making the UAE a top destination for high earners and entrepreneurs.