The UAE Golden Visa is an exceptional long-term residency program meant to attract uniquely talented individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, and talented professionals. Since its initiation, the visa has gained prominence among foreign nationalities wishing to attain stability, opportunities, and ultimately long-term benefits in the UAE. Different from the conventional category of visas, the Golden Visa allows residency for as long as 10 years with renewals and has exclusive perks, such as family sponsorship, living outside the UAE without losing residency, among others.
We will take you through the whole process of applying for Golden Visa UAE and Who can apply for Golden Visa in UAE in this article. From the application process, requirements, and eligibility criteria, among others, so that you will know how to go about applying for Golden Visas UAE effectively.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa UAE is a long-term residence visa that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the UAE for extended periods. It aims to attract individuals with professional talents in business, medicine, science, engineering, and art who could benefit the development of the UAE. The Golden Visa has different privileges, such as:
- A renewable long-term visa valid for 5 or 10 years
- The ability to sponsor family members- spouse and children without age limit
- The ability to sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers
- Option of being outside the UAE for over six months without affecting your visa status
- Family members can remain in the UAE if the primary visa holder passes away
- Access to a simplified process through the ‘One Touch’ Golden Visa service
Golden Visa UAE application process
The eligibility and requirements for the Golden Visa UAE vary with respect to the category of applicants: investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, outstanding students, and pioneers of humanitarian work. Here are the requirements elaborated for each category:
Public Investment Investors
Investors who wish to apply for a Golden Visa UAE are required to meet the following prerequisites:
- A letter from accredited investment fund in the UAE confirming a deposit of at least AED 2,000,000.
- A valid commercial or industrial license showing that the capital is not less than AED 2 million.
- Evidence that the investor paid not less than AED 250,000 annually to the government.
- Investors must be the sole owners of the invested capital (i.e., no loans involved).
- Evidence of medical insurance for the applicant and their family members.
Real Estate Investors
For those wishing to invest in real estate, the requirements are as follows:
- A letter from the land department in the respective emirate confirming the ownership of a property worth at least AED 2 million.
- Proof of property ownership without loans (except in case it is from an approved bank).
- Visa is issued for 5 years and can be renewed under the same conditions.
Entrepreneurs
This applies to entrepreneurs in innovative or risk-bearing economic projects. They can qualify for Golden Visas UAE as per the following terms:
- A governmental approval from a business incubator in the UAE.
- A project that is valued at, at least AED 500,000.
- A letter certifying that the project is technical or forward-looking by nature.
- A business plan or project proposal that satisfies specific innovation and risk criteria.
- Medical insurance for the entrepreneur and members of the family.
Extraordinary Specialized Talents
This category of professionals includes different types such as doctors, scientists, creatives in the arts and culture industries, inventors, and athletes. The specifications for each category vary:
- Doctors and Scientists: An approval letter from the Ministry of Health and Prevention/ Emirates Council of Scientists.
- For Creative Individuals: An approval letter from the Department of Culture and Arts in respective emirates.
- Inventors: A recommendation from the Ministry of Economy concerning the inventor’s contribution to the economy.
- Executives: Proof of university degree, 5 years work experience, minimum AED 50,000 salary and its valid work contract.
Outstanding Students
UAE Golden Visa also covers outstanding students whether in high school or graduating from universities.
- High School Students: Must be from a GPA of 95 percent or above, and a recommendation letter has to be issued by the Ministry of Education.
- University Students: Must be from a GPA of 3.5 or above from an accredited university and attach therewith a recommendation letter from the institution.
Humanitarian Pioneers and Frontline Heroes
- Humanitarian Pioneers: These people work in humanitarian service, including people working in international organizations or humanitarian projects where a funding contribution has been significant.
- Frontline Heroes: Individuals who’ve worked in the frontlines of any ongoing crisis, for example, frontline workers during COVID-19.
Who Can Apply for the Golden Visa in UAE?
Golden Visa UAE eligibility is for people from all walks of life, such as:
- Investors: Persons investing in the economy of the UAE.
- Entrepreneurs: Founders of innovative startups or companies with great investment potential.
- Specialized Talent: Professionals from medicine, science, engineering, and the arts.
- Excellent Students: Distinguished students coming from either high schools or universities.
- Humanitarian Workers and Frontline Heroes: Those who extended their efforts towards the broader interests of society.
Steps to Get a UAE Golden Visa
The Golden Visa UAE application procedure is simple and straightforward, especially with the introduction of the ‘One Touch’ Golden Visas service.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for Golden Visa UAE:
Step 1. Verify Eligibility
Before applying for a Golden Visa in the UAE, always ensure that you fall under the specific requirement of your category. If you are already an investor, entrepreneur, specialized talent, or student, make sure the required documents and criteria mentioned earlier apply to you.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Depending on your category, different documents have to be attached. Some of these documents may include the following:
- Valid passport copy
- Proof of investment or ownership (for investors and real estate owners)
- Proof of educational qualifications (for specialized talents and students)
- Proof of medical insurance for you and your family
- Letters of recommendation or approval from relevant authorities (depending on your category)
Step 3: Apply
Submit your application for your Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) portal or from their authorized mobile app by Google Play and the App Store. The required information will include filling in details related to an individual and uploading all necessary documentation.
Step 4: Await Approval
Once your application is submitted, the authorities will review it. The category you are applying under determines the time needed to process the application, but you will be notified once it is approved.
Step 5: Golden Visa Receipt
Last but not least, you will receive your UAE Golden Visa after the approval. Usually, 5 or 10 years are the validities recognized for such reasons, depending on your category, and it can also be renewed..
Golden Visa UAE Application Process: Summary
- Check Eligibility: Make sure you meet the specific requirements for your category.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents such as investment proof, educational qualifications, medical insurance, and letters of recommendation.
- Submit Application: Apply through the ICP website or mobile app.
- Wait for Approval: Authorities will process your application and inform you of the decision.
- Receive Visa: After approval, you will receive your Golden Visa, which is valid for 5-10 years and renewable.
Conclusion
A magnificent opportunity has been provided by the Golden Visa UAE for all those who want long-term residency and good life within the borders of the United Arab Emirates. Whether one is an investor, entrepreneur, special talent, or outstanding student, the process is open for everyone along with many benefits and privileges that will make this option highly valuable.
Use the step-by-step guide outline above to apply for the Golden Visas UAE application process, which will take you through the journey toward permanent residency in some of the most dynamic and thriving economies in the world.
FAQ
How can I apply for a Golden Visa in the UAE?
You can apply through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) website or the ICP mobile app. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and submit the necessary documents for processing.
What are the main requirements for the UAE Golden Visa?
The requirements vary based on your category (investor, entrepreneur, talent, etc.). Common requirements include investment proof, educational qualifications, and medical insurance.
Who is eligible to receive a Golden Visa in the UAE?
Investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding students, talented professionals (doctors, scientists, athletes), humanitarian workers, and frontline heroes can apply for the UAE Golden Visa.
What is the step-by-step process to get a Golden Visa UAE?
The process includes confirming your eligibility, gathering documents, submitting your application online, waiting for approval, and finally receiving your visa.
Can freelancers or investors apply for the UAE Golden Visa?
Yes, freelancers and investors can apply for the Golden Visa UAE if they meet the investment or freelance requirements, such as capital investment or business ownership.
