A Guide on How to Get a UAE Golden Visa and Citizenship in 2024
Everything you need to know about UAE Golden Visa and Citizenship this 2024 is all detailed here. We discussed the step by step guide for Golden Visa application and who is eligible to apply. We have also listed the document requirement and the benefits and disadvantages of Golden Visa UAE.
Table of Contents
What is the Golden Visa UAE
The initiative Golden Visa UAE is a program that grants people a long-term residency in the country of the United Arab Emirates. There are several eligible individuals who can enjoy the benefits of the UAE Golden Visa. These people include real estate investors, entrepreneurs, students, selected talents, and more. Their benefits include:
A renewable residency permit with five to ten-year limit
No need to have a sponsor or resident support
Significantly fewer requirements during their stay in the country
Being able to sponsor a family relative and domestic helpers
No personal income tax is required
How to Apply for the Golden Visa in UAE: Step by Step Guide
When applying for Golden Visa UAE, here are the steps you need to follow. The processing for this program is very easy and convenient in the UAE. As long as you have all the requirements at hand, you can have a straightforward process for the golden visa.
Step 1 – Secure your UAE Entry Visa
To apply for the Golden Visa, you need to have an entry visa first. This is if your country requires it. You can easily apply for this online through certified websites. After you arrive in the country, you can now follow the other steps.
Step 2 – Complete your Investment or Requirements
You need to finalize your investments, whether in real estate, bank accounts, or investment funds. Other eligible persons can prepare all their needed requirements for application.
This will serve as evidence for your eligibility to apply for Golden Visa UAE. You also need to prepare other necessary documents to push through with your application. The number of documents needed depends on which eligibility category you fall into. Eligible people who can apply are:
- Investors
- Entrepreneurs
- Outstanding Talents
- Foreign Students
Step 3 – Legalizing of Documents
All documents needed for your application have to be notarized. Additionally, these should all be written in Arabic. For this, you need to have a certified translation for your documents before proceeding to the next step.
Step 4 – Go Through Medical Checkup
After you have ticked off the previous steps, you need to go through a comprehensive medical checkup. This applies to you and any family members if they are included in your application. This aims to determine if you have a socially dangerous medical illness before you can proceed with your application.
Step 5 – Officially Start Your Golden Visa UAE Application
After going through the documents you need and passing the medical exam, you can continue with your application. You can submit this application online through specific portals on the GDRFA or ABUDHABI website. Afterwards, they will send
you a notice of the status of your application either through email or SMS. If you are missing a document, you still have 30 days to pass this. Once done, you will receive the approval notification.
Processing Time of Golden Visa UAE
The UAE Golden Visa processing time normally takes around 30 days, give or take.
There are factors that influence how quickly the processing time takes for your application. For example, if you are an investor who included your family members in the application, you need a multi-entry permit. This would usually take up to 7 days.
There are also other factors that come to play in this matter.
Applicant Type
Due to the varying applicant eligibility and requirements, they will also have different processing time. Other applications might have more requirements hence, more time needed to look it over.
Nationality
Diplomatic considerations or additional security checks may also play a part in the processing time. Some applicants in certain countries may experience faster processes than others.
Immigration History
If you have a clean immigration record, you might have a chance for faster processing time. In contrast, others might need to pass through rigorous
background checks before they get approved.
Correctness and Completeness of Submitted Documents
If you have submitted complete and correct document requirements, you may experience less waiting time for your approval.
Who is Eligible for a Golden Visa
Eligible people who can apply for a Golden Visa are grouped into categories. They can either be real estate investors, non-real estate investors, entrepreneurs, talents, students, and others. There are particular minimum requirements that people who want to apply for the Golden Visa need to know. After you have ticked all the boxes in these basic requirements, you will have to be guided to specific requirements. Applications for UAE Golden Visa will depend highly on the background, purpose for applying, and so on.
These are the minimum requirements for a UAE Golden Visa:
-
- You need to be of legal age at 18 years old.
- You will need to have a notarized copy of your passport.
- You must have no criminal history.
- You must not have any health issues that are highly transmittable.
- You need to have health insurance.
Specific requirements for the UAE Golden Visa would highly depend on which category you fall into.
Documents Requirement For Eligible Individuals
There are specific requirements you need to fulfill based on your eligibility category. It is different with investors, foreign students, entrepreneurs, and other talents.
Real Estate Investors
Foreign nationals who own real estate properties in the country may be granted a Golden Visa UAE. This Golden Visa will provide them with a renewable ten-year residency limit. They can buy these properties through a loan, provided that it does not exceed 50% of the property value. They can file these loans with
with specific local banks. Here are the specific requirements you can present during the application:
- You may provide a provision letter from Dubai Land Department (DLD). This will declare that you own one or more properties in the country. These properties should have a value of more than AED 2 million or USD 545k.
- You can present a DLD permission letter or one from another emirate where your property settles.
Other Investment Ventures
Other than real estate investments, there are other types of investments that are eligible for Golden Visa UAE application. These investments can be categorized into three different types, investor or partner, tax collection, and bank deposit. Let’s discuss the requirements for application within these three categories.
Investor (Partner)
- Trade permit together with the appendix of the investor
- Financial document or report from the previous tax year
- A valid certificate from the free zone area with the financial information of the partner
- Financial statement (from the previous six months)
- UAE’s Federal Tax Authority registration document. The transaction values must be more than AED 100k or USD 27k per year.
- If applicable, a property ownership proof
Tax Collection
- Documentation proof from the Federal Tax Authority affirming your partnership with certain establishments.
- Proof that you paid your taxes to the UAE government with taxes amounting to more than AED 250,000.
- A verified commercial license with an appendix of the partner
Bank Deposits
- Proof that the investor is the sole owner of the deposited money.
- Proof of residency in any emirate in the UAE
- Documentation proof of at least AED 2 million in a local bank in the UAE. It can be an acknowledged UAE investment fund accredited by Sukuk or the Ministry of Finance.
Entrepreneurs
Businesses or any projects owned by foreign entrepreneurs can apply for the Golden Visa UAE with a five-year limit. These projects must have a technical or future nature to them. Entrepreneurs must secure approvals from these entities:
- Federal entity in any emirate to confirm the nature of the business
- A certified UAE-based auditor is required to validate that your venture or project has a value of or more than AED 500k.
- Licensed business incubator within the country to ensure support for your business venture.
Outstanding Talents
Specialized talents are acknowledged in Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s Golden Visa initiative. These can be:
- Scientists
- Doctors
- Inventors
- Artists
- Executives
- Specialists within the engineering and scientific field
- Doctoral degree holders
- Athletes
These outstanding talents have the privilege to have a chance in having a ten year Golden Visa UAE. These are the following specific eligibility requirements they need to accomplish.
UAE Golden Visa for Scientists and Doctors
- (Scientists) Recommendation letter from Emirates Scientists Council
-
- In some cases, the person has been awarded the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medal of Scientific Distinguishments. They can present a recommendation letter from the Mohammed bin Rashid Academy of Scientists Secretariat.
- (Doctors) Letter of approval from the Ministry of Health and Prevention in the UAE
UAE Golden Visa for Inventors
- Endorsement letter from the Ministry of Economy
UAE Golden Visa for Artists
- Letter of approval from the Department of Culture and Arts in the emirate they want to reside
- Documentation proof of at least AED 2 million in a local bank in the UAE. It can be an acknowledged UAE investment fund accredited by Sukuk or the Ministry of Finance.
UAE Golden Visa for Specialists within the Engineering and Scientific field
They must have a bachelor’s or master’s degree to be affirmed by the Ministry of Education. Specific eligible areas:
- Epidemiology & viruses
- Electrical engineering
- Artificial intelligence
- Electrical engineering
- Big data
- Software engineering
- Computer engineering
- Genetics & biotechnology engineering
UAE Golden Visa for Executives
- Proof of Bachelor’s degree or higher to be verified by the Ministry of Education
- Formal letter proof of experience in the executive position (at least five years)
- Salary certificate proof of or more than AED 50,000 or USD 13,600
- Verified work contract
University Students
Any university student from a local university in the UAE can apply for a 10-year Golden Visa UAE. As long as:
- The university is rated A or B.
- Your graduation year has not passed for more than two years from application.
- Recommendation letter from the university or a
GPA of 3.5 or more for A-class universities and a GPA of 3.8 for B-class universities
University students from foreign universities can also apply for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa. As long as:
- The university ranks among the top 100 universities internationally
- GPA has to be equal to or better than 3.5
- Not more than two years since graduation year
- Ministry of Education has to accredit the graduation certificate
Other Eligible Persons
The UAE Golden Visa eligibility is also extended to frontline heroes and humanitarians. Humanitarians will be allowed if they qualify among the four special categories.
-
- A stellar worker with outstanding records working with local and international organizations (at least five years).
- An excellent employee from civil institutions and associations serving for at least five years.
- A humanitarian who was recognized and awarded for their efforts from international or local humanitarian organizations.
- An outstanding investor in humanitarian works with support equal to or more than AED 2 million.
Moreover, frontline heroes are eligible by presenting a letter of recommendation from any verified government entity. These include:
- Lab technicians
- Nurses
- Medical assistants
- Pharmacologists
- Or other workers with the approval from the Frontline Heroes Office
Benefits and Advantages of Having a UAE Golden Visa
There are numerous benefits and advantages that come with having a Golden Visa UAE. The unmatched privilege that the Golden Visa provides proves why a lot of people would want it. It will give you rights to property ownership, no personal income tax, access to their top-rated facilities, no sponsorship needed, and more.
This comprehensive strategy fuels the UAE’s worldwide standing and growth. It attracts thousands of investors, entrepreneurs, and talented individuals.
Up to 10 Years of Residency
Golden Visa UAE grants residency of up to ten years. This will allow for more growth and development on the professional and personal aspect of the individuals. With a longer residency, you can progress with your careers or business with less worries. You will also have more time to assimilate and get used to the culture in the country.
Rights to Property Ownership
Having a Golden Visa allows you to have full ownership rights to any property within the freehold zones. You can have full access and ease of choice from the UAE’s diversified real estate options. This will also help you when it comes to applying for mortgages. Golden Visa UAE signifies long-term stability, which may help you when applying for loans or mortgages. With this, you can easily expand your investment portfolio in the world’s most dynamic and lucrative markets.
No Need for Sponsors
For many investors and entrepreneurs, this factor is extremely beneficial. It drives up their autonomy during their business and investment ventures. It also simplifies the process of finalizing investments or establishing businesses, as there is no need for sponsors.
Can Sponsor Other Family Members
Another key benefits and advantages of Golden Visa is the ability to sponsor your family and domestic helpers. This way, you are essentially cutting off the tedious process of applying for a separate visa for them. You can just include them in your application and be able to live together in the UAE.
No Personal Income Tax
One of the biggest benefits and advantages of Golden Visa UAE is the no personal income tax policy. This covers anything you earn from your investments, employment, and other personal sources. You have 0% tax for personal income. Even in businesses, the UAE has one of the lowest corporate taxes in the world, at just 12.5%. This allows entrepreneurs to gain more profit and be more inclined to grow within that market.
Multiple Business and Employment Opportunities
One of the UAE’s greatest strengths is its geographical location which connects strategically to important countries. This makes it an ideal place for trade and business which also drums up the business opportunities in the country. Consequently, its lively business ecosystem provides multiple employment opportunities. The city is home to world-class infrastructure, globally competitive businesses, and top-tier facilities. This makes it a perfect place for residents, employees, investors, and entrepreneurs.
Multi-Entry Visa
With the UAE Golden Visa, you do not have to apply for a visa everytime you travel out of the country. This will increase global mobility especially for people or entrepreneurs who need to maintain global connections. This privilege also covers sponsored family members. This ease of movement for the person and family members is a huge advantage.
No Employment Restrictions
Employees and entrepreneurs have flexibility in the job market. They can have multiple jobs or change employers without significant damage to their visa. For entrepreneurs, they have the chance to start any business ventures while maintaining their individual jobs abroad. This flexibility supports the growth and development of employees and entrepreneurs.
Access to World Class Facilities
People with Golden Visa UAE can access the top-tier facilities like their healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and leisure and entertainment facilities. This visa can provide privilege and potential discounts for whoever has it.
Esaad Privilege Card
To some UAE Golden Visa categories, they may be given an Esaad Privilege Card. This is basically a card that offers benefits and discounts to different sectors. These include:
- Real estate
- Healthcare
- Banking services
- Health insurance
- Automotive
Disadvantages of Having a UAE Golden Visa
Besides the good side of having a Golden Visa UAE, there are also some minor drawbacks. Firstly, the Golden Visa UAE does not equate to citizenship. The good news is that visa is renewable and has a long-term residency. If this is not so much of an issue to you, then a Golden Visa is good enough.The second point emphasizes the price and expenses in the country. The UAE is a dynamic and booming country with everything anyone could ever want. It is also a given that they have a more luxurious lifestyle.
Conclusion
Having a Golden Visa UAE is such an advantage and privilege in the country. This is a program that grants a 10-year residency in the UAE, which has several benefits and advantages. Moreover, getting a UAE golden visa is simple and easy. You first need to secure an entry visa and prepare all necessary documents depending on your category. Then, you need to have your documents written in Arabic and verified. You then need to pass the medical checkup before you can officially process the application. The process will usually take 30 days, depending on
several factors. Once you get approved, you can start enjoying the benefits and privileges that come with having a UAE Golden Visa.
FAQs
How can you apply for a golden visa in UAE?
To apply for a golden visa UAE, you need to firstly enter the country and prepare all needed documents which will need to be written in Arabic and notarized. Then, you and your sponsored family members need to pass the medical exams. After that, the processing time will take around 30 days before you receive an update of your application.
How can you apply for a golden visa for students?
Students from local universities or foreign universities can apply for a UAE golden visa. First, they just need an entry visa to enter the country and prepare all the specific document requirements for students. Then, they can proceed to have it notarized, pass the medical exam, and wait for their application approval.
How can you apply for a golden visa for nurses?
Golden Visa UAE application for nurses is somewhat the same except for the needed requirements. They are under the category of frontline people and they need a recommendation letter as proof of their employment.
Who can Golden Visa holders sponsor?
Golden Visa holders can sponsor family members or their domestic helpers like maids, drivers, etc.
Can you apply for a Golden Visa if youI buy property in Dubai?
Yes. Real estate investors in Dubai are eligible to apply for a golden visa. This is on the condition that the property value is more than AED 2 million.
Are doctors eligible for a Golden Visa in the UAE?
Yes. Doctors fall under the outstanding talents eligibility category for Golden Visa UAE.
How much does the UAE Golden Visa cost?
The costs for the golden visa depends on where you are applying for it. If you’re applying locally, that would range from AED 2,800 to AED 3,800. If you’re applying from abroad, that would be around AED 3,800 to AED 4,800.
What is the salary requirement to apply for a Golden Visa in the UAE?
Certain categories for eligibility in Golden Visa UAE have financial requirements. Real estate investors need to have at least AED 2 million property investment and business partners need to have AED 100k transaction value per year. Meanwhile, entrepreneurs have to have business ventures that are at least AED 500k in value.
How long can you stay out of the country with a UAE Golden Visa?
There is no limit for staying out in the UAE once you have the golden visa. You also do not need to file for multi-entry permits.
How many countries can I visit with an UAE Golden Visa?
You can travel to any country but if you want to visit free visa countries, there are 18 destinations overall.
Does the UAE Golden Visa lead to citizenship?
No. UAE Golden Visa is a renewable long-term residency, but it doesn’t equate to citizenship.
What is the age requirement to apply for a Golden Visa in the UAE?
You need to be at least 18 years old before applying for a Golden Visa.
Can I sponsor my son with Golden Visa in UAE?
Yes. All Golden Visa holders can sponsor their family members.
How to get UAE Golden Visa for Pakistani?
To get a UAE Golden Visa for a Pakistani, you must first review the eligibility categories. Then, you can complete the specific requirements for that category and fulfill the steps for application.
Most Trending Projects in Dubai
Address Residences
AED 2.4 M
Creek Waters
AED 1.6 M
Oasis by Emaar
AED 8,1 M
Club Drive
AED 1.5 M
Creek Gate
AED 3.8 M
AEON by Emaar
AED 1.71 M
Farm Gardens 2
AED 5.1 M
Bayz 101 by Danube
AED 5.09 M
Cavalli Villas
AED 1.15M
Danube Sportz
AED 590 k
Top Communities
Nad Al Sheba Gardens
Damac Hills
Palm Jumeirah
Sports City
Arabian Ranches 3
Creek Harbour
Dubai Hills Estate
Arjan
EMAAR The Valley
