The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program allowing eligible foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the UAE for five or ten years, with easy renewal.
Through real estate investment, public investment, or entrepreneurial ventures, applicants can gain residency by meeting criteria such as a minimum AED 500,000–2 million investment.
UAE Golden Visa benefits include tax-free living, exceptional healthcare and education, family sponsorship, and access to one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
This 2025 guide explains the Golden Visa UAE and its requirements. It also walks you through costs, eligibility, and the application process.
In this ultimate guide you will learn about:
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa, commonly referred to as the Dubai Golden Visa, is a long-term residency permit that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the United Arab Emirates. Introduced in 2019, the visa is part of a government initiative to attract and retain individuals with valuable skills and professional backgrounds.
The program offers residency options valid for five or ten years, with straightforward renewal terms. It is open to various categories, including investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, specialized professionals, outstanding students and graduates, and other qualified applicants.
Top 12 UAE Golden Visa Benefits
Long-term residency: The UAE Golden Visa grants a renewable 10-year residency, ensuring long-term stability for personal and professional growth. This extended stay enables individuals and their families to fully immerse themselves in the UAE’s dynamic community, gaining a deeper appreciation of local customs and traditions.- Freedom to work and live in the UAE: The UAE Golden Visa program does not require a local sponsor, meaning Dubai Golden Visa holders can live, work, and study in the UAE, providing freedom to explore the best career and lifestyle options.
- Tax-free income: There is no personal income tax in the United Arab Emirates, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings, making it financially attractive for investors.
- Bring your family: The Golden Visa Dubai allows you to sponsor your spouse and children, regardless of their age, so your loved ones can share in the UAE experience.
- Support with domestic help: UAE Golden Visa holders can sponsor as many domestic helpers as they need, such as nannies or drivers. This not only adds to daily comforts but also helps younger children integrate into UAE life.
- Access to top-quality healthcare: Healthcare in the UAE is fantastic, with various medical facilities throughout the country, making healthcare accessible for all. The United Arab Emirates offers a range of private and public healthcare services, along with affordable medical insurance for expats.
- Multiple entries allowed: One of the best UAE Golden Visa benefits is that applicants are entitled to multiple entries, so you can come and go freely without reapplying, making traveling across the globe easier.
- Stable economy: The United Arab Emirates has an extremely stable economy. It is one of the main reasons the country is such an attractive option for foreign investors. The UAE’s economy makes planning for your future much more reliable, while also providing peace of mind for future generations.
- Flexibility for travel: You can stay outside the UAE for extended periods without losing your residency status. The United Arab Emirates is also in the ideal location, between Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a strategic hub for travel and business. Its central location allows easy access to major global markets, with short flight times to key destinations in each region.
- Esaad privilege card benefits: The Esaad Card offers discounts at over 7,000 UAE businesses and in 92 countries worldwide, adding even more value to your UAE residency.
- Job opportunities: One of the main attractions of Dubai and the UAE is the abundance of job opportunities. With a thriving economy and continuous expansion across various sectors, the UAE offers diverse career prospects. Key industries include IT, blockchain development, healthcare, digital marketing, real estate, logistics, and renewable energy, among others.
- Expat friendly environment: The United Arab Emirates is one of the most expat friendly nations in the world. In fact, expats make up over 88% of the UAE population. The country is very open to expats with UAE residency, with a large English speaking population, a range of international schools, and thriving expat communities throughout the country, you will feel at home in no time.
Long-term residency: The UAE Golden Visa grants a renewable 10-year residency, ensuring long-term stability for personal and professional growth. This extended stay enables individuals and their families to fully immerse themselves in the UAE’s dynamic community, gaining a deeper appreciation of local customs and traditions.Who can get the UAE Golden Visa?
There are various pathways to obtain a Golden Visa in the UAE, including:
- Investors: Real estate investors who purchase a property worth at least AED 2 million (approximately $545,000) or make significant public investments in investment funds or UAE companies or a bank deposit.
- Entrepreneurs: Founders of start-up companies registered as SMEs in the UAE with annual revenues of at least AED 1 million (approximately $270,000), or those who have sold their entrepreneurial project for over AED 7 million (approximately $1.9 million).
- Exceptional talents: Inventors, innovators, and talents in vital fields such as culture, art, sports, and digital technology, regardless of their educational qualification, employment status, monthly salary or professional level.
- Scientists and professionals: Individuals with specialized degrees or experience in fields such as medicine, engineering, science, research, and technology.
- Outstanding students and graduates: Top students and graduates from UAE universities and those with a GPA of at least 3.8 out of 4.0 or equivalent.
- Humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes: Individuals who have made significant humanitarian contributions or served on the frontlines during emergencies.
The UAE launched its Golden Visa to help grow its economy and become a global center for skilled talent. At first, it was mainly for investors and professionals, but now it includes people in fields like healthcare, education, and tech. Our GCS report, Innovation Through Immigration, states that recent changes to the program show the UAE is clearly using immigration to support its long-term goals of building a knowledge-based economy. It’s also making special visa options for AI experts and programmers to grow its digital economy.
Golden Visa UAE Eligibility
There are various pathways to obtain UAE residency with the Golden Visa, each with its own eligibility criteria. However, there are some basic criteria that must be met before applying, including:
- Must be a non-UAE national
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have a legal source of income, depending on the visa category
- Must have a clean criminal record
- Must have valid medical insurance that is approved by the UAE authorities.
- Must be in good health with no communicable diseases, verified by a medical fitness certificate.
- Applicants should not have any outstanding debts in the UAE, as this may affect their eligibility for residency.
Important to note: The UAE Golden Visa does not offer UAE citizenship. Additionally, each residency pathway will have its eligibility criteria; it’s essential to understand what is required for your application before applying.
Sponsoring Family and Dependents in the UAE
Dubai Golden Visa holders are allowed to sponsor eligible family members and dependents, ensuring stability and support for their loved ones. Here’s an overview of who can be sponsored.
- Spouse: Legally married husband or wife of the Golden Visa holder.
- Biological, adopted, or stepchildren: Can be sponsored as dependents.
- Unmarried sons: Can be sponsored up to age 24 if in full-time higher education and financially dependent.
- Daughters: No age limit, as long as financially dependent.
- Children with disabilities: No age limit for sponsorship.
- Parents and parents-in-law: Can be sponsored for 10 years if over 60 years old and have no independent income.
- Grandparents: Can be sponsored regardless of age.
- Siblings: Not eligible for sponsorship.
- Domestic helpers: Golden Visa holders can sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers (maids, nannies, drivers, etc.). A valid passport, employment contract, medical fitness certificate, and health insurance are required.
UAE Golden Visa Requirements to sponsor dependents in the UAE
To sponsor dependents, the UAE Golden Visa holder must:
- Ensure they have a valid Golden Visa
- Meet the income requirements (currently AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 plus accommodation)
- Provide required documents like passport copies, marriage/birth certificates, employment contracts, etc.
- Apply through the relevant authority (GDRFA in Dubai, DED in Abu Dhabi)
- Pay the applicable visa fees
UAE Golden Visa Document Requirements
Here are some basic documents required for all applicants:
- A valid passport with at least six months validity.
- A recent passport-sized color photo with a white background.
- Valid health insurance for the applicant and their family members.
- Proof of family relationships (birth certificates, marriage certificates).
- A current UAE residence permit (if applicable).
- An Emirates ID card copy (if applicable).
UAE Golden Visa 2025 Application Process: Step by Step
The process of applying for the UAE Golden Visa may vary depending on the pathway chosen, such as real estate investment, entrepreneurship, or exceptional talent. However, the general application procedure follows these key steps:
- Check Eligibility
Review the specific Golden Visa requirements based on your profile—whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, scientist, outstanding student, or creative professional. Working with an immigration advisor can help determine the most suitable category and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. - Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents, which typically include:- Valid passport (minimum six-month validity)
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of investment or ownership (e.g. property deeds, company trade license)
- Academic qualifications and professional certifications
- Police clearance certificate (no criminal record)
- Valid UAE health insurance
- Employment contract or offer (for skilled professionals)
Note: All documents must be officially translated into Arabic and notarized.
- Submit Your Application
Apply through the official UAE government portals—the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), depending on the emirate. Applications can also be submitted through authorized service centers. - Pay Visa Fees
Submit the required documents and pay applicable fees. Costs may vary based on the emirate and visa type, but expect to budget between AED 8,000 and AED 10,000. - Complete Medical and Biometric Testing
After preliminary approval, undergo a medical fitness test at a licensed clinic and complete biometric verification for your Emirates ID. Most applicants are granted a six-month multiple-entry visa to enter the UAE and finalize these steps, especially if applying from abroad. - Await Final Approval
Application review typically takes 7–10 business days, though timelines may vary depending on the visa category and documentation provided. - Receive Your Golden Visa
Upon approval, your UAE residency permit will be issued. Depending on your qualifying pathway, this permit is valid for either five or ten years. - Apply for Emirates ID
Finally, apply for your Emirates ID, which includes biometric data capture and is essential for residency and daily life in the UAE.
Golden Visa UAE Price
The UAE Golden Visa cost varies based on the residency pathway. For example, the 10-year Golden Visa UAE cost will differ to the five-year visa. However, here are some of the various costs that most applicants will incur during the application process:
Visa application fee | Approximately AED 2,656.75 for the residency permit |
UAE ID application fee | Approximately AED 1,153 for a 10-year Emirates ID |
Medical examination fee | Approximately AED 700 for the medical fitness test |
Administrative processing fee | Approximately AED 1,155 |
Land department fee | Approximately AED 4,020 |
Consular legalization | Approximately AED 1,000 (around $272) per person |
Family residence permit fee (if applicable) | Approximately AED 5,668.50 for each dependent for a 10-year residency |
Family sponsorship file opening fee (if applicable) | Approximately AED 318.75 |
Taxes in the UAE for Golden Visa Holders
One of the key considerations for many applicants evaluating the Golden Visa UAE is the UAE tax regime. The UAE offers a highly favorable environment, particularly for individuals seeking to preserve and grow their wealth while enjoying long-term residency.
Golden Visa holders benefit from:
- No personal income tax: Earnings from employment or business activities are not taxed.
- No capital gains tax: Income from selling real estate or investments is not subject to tax.
- No inheritance tax: The UAE does not levy taxes on inherited wealth.
- Corporate tax: As of 2023, businesses earning above AED 375,000 are subject to a 9% corporate tax. Certain free zone entities may remain exempt, depending on compliance with qualifying activity criteria.
- VAT: A standard 5% Value Added Tax (VAT) applies to most goods and services.
For individuals residing in the UAE for 183 days or more, it’s possible to apply for a UAE Tax Residency Certificate (TRC). This allows access to double taxation agreements with over 130 countries—potentially reducing tax obligations abroad.
While the UAE offers substantial tax advantages, applicants should assess their home country’s tax laws to understand any foreign income reporting requirements or obligations.
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments.
We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Golden Visa UAE
What is The UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa, also known as the Dubai Golden Visa, is a long-term residency program launched by the UAE government to attract investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and exceptional talent. Offering 5- or 10-year residency, it allows foreign nationals to live, work, and invest in the Emirates while benefiting from a stable economy, tax-free income, world-class infrastructure, and a business-friendly environment.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Golden Visa in the UAE?
The UAE Golden Visa grants long-term residency to a range of individuals, such as investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, and highly skilled professionals. Eligibility criteria vary by category and may include factors like the size of the investment, educational background, professional achievements, and contributions to the UAE.
What are the UAE Golden Visa benefits?
There are a range of Golden Visa UAE benefits for those seeking long-term residency. These include the ability to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor, as well as extended stay periods and the option to sponsor family members. Visa holders also enjoy tax benefits and simplified procedures for property ownership and starting a business.
What are the disadvantages of UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa does have a few disadvantages, including a high financial investment, strict rules and regulations to maintain compliance, and no direct pathway to citizenship.
How long does it take to get the Dubai Golden Visa?
The Dubai Golden Visa processing time is generally around 30 days, depending on whether the application is complete. A full and complete application with all the required documents may be processed in as little as 7-10 days.
What are the UAE Golden Visa new rules?
The UAE recently implemented new rules to its Golden Visa program, making it more accessible. The visa categories have opened up to include more people, family sponsorship is more flexible, and the minimum investment amounts have changed.
Are there salary requirements for the UAE Golden Visa in 2025?
A minimum monthly salary requirement of AED 30,000 may apply for specific subcategories, including skilled workers, executive managers, and business and management specialists.
How much does UAE Golden Visa cost?
The cost of a UAE Golden Visa varies between AED 10,000 and AED 15,000, depending on factors such as the validity period and eligibility requirements.
Is there UAE Citizenship by Investment?
No, there is no UAE Citizenship by Investment program. There is also no Citizenship by Investment in Dubai. The only way to obtain citizenship through an investment in the UAE is to invest and live in the country for 30 years and become a citizen through naturalization.
What are the Dubai Golden Visa requirements?
The Golden Visa UAE requirements vary by category but generally include:
- Investors: Investing in real estate (minimum AED 2 million) or business sectors like technology and healthcare.
- Entrepreneurs: Own a successful business or startup contributing to the economy.
- Skilled professionals: Be highly qualified in fields like medicine, engineering, or technology.
- Exceptional talent: Show global recognition or achievements in science, arts, or sports.
- Academics and researchers: Hold advanced degrees in strategic fields like STEM.
- Medical professionals: Work in high-demand areas like medicine or biotechnology.
- Real estate developers: Contribute to Dubai’s infrastructure with large-scale projects.
How long does it take to get the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa processing time is generally around 30 days, depending on whether the application is complete. A full and complete application with all the required documents may be processed in as little as 7-10 days.
Can I work in the UAE with a Golden Visa?
Yes, the UAE Golden Visa allows holders to work in the United Arab Emirates without the need for a local sponsor. This flexibility applies to both entrepreneurs and skilled professionals, offering them the freedom to work in the country without restrictions.
What industries are eligible for the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is available for individuals in various industries, including but not limited to:
- Healthcare and medicine
- Technology
- Business and finance
- Arts, culture, and sports
- Engineering and science
- Real estate development
- Education and research
Can my family benefit from the UAE Golden Visa?
Yes, you can sponsor your immediate family members, including your spouse, children, and parents, under the UAE Golden Visa. Family members will be able to live, work, and study in the UAE alongside the primary visa holder.
What are the new rules for the UAE Golden Visa in 2025?
Under the UAE Golden Visa: new rules, eligibility has expanded to include digital content creators, e-sports professionals, and individuals recognized for humanitarian work. The UAE Golden Visa requirements 2025 also clarify income thresholds and add flexibility to family sponsorship options.
What is the difference between the golden visa UAE and standard residency visas?
The UAE Golden Visa offers 5- or 10-year renewable residency, compared to the typical 2–3 years for standard visas. Golden Visa holders are not tied to a sponsor and have broader eligibility to sponsor family and dependents.
Is the golden visa UAE cost different for entrepreneurs and investors?
Yes, the total UAE Golden Visa cost varies by applicant type. Entrepreneurs may incur additional licensing or business setup fees, while investors must meet minimum investment thresholds (AED 500,000 to AED 2 million), with additional charges for processing and documentation.
How much does the 10-year Golden Visa UAE cost?
To qualify for the 10-year UAE Golden Visa through investment, applicants typically need to invest a minimum of AED 2 million (around $545,000). Additional costs, such as government fees, medical examinations, and health insurance can amount to an extra $3,000-$4,000.
