expat network

Guide To UAE Golden Visa Requirements And Benefits

Since 2019, the United Arab Emirates has offered the “Golden Visa” program — long-term residency valid for up to 10 years for investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, and exceptional talents in science, culture, and sports. It’s one of the most flexible residency programs worldwide, giving the right to live and work in the UAE, enjoy resident benefits, and run a business with zero personal income tax.

Here’s what you need to know about eligibility, investment thresholds, application documents, and the key advantages.

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit, not a passport. It’s issued for 5 or 10 years and automatically renewed if eligibility criteria remain in place. Unlike standard residency, it does not require a local employment sponsor and allows you to stay outside the UAE for extended periods without losing your status.

Who Can Apply

Several applicant categories qualify for the program:

Real estate investors — purchase property worth at least AED 2 million (≈ USD 545,000). Mortgages from UAE banks are allowed.
Entrepreneurs — own a business with a capital of AED 500,000+ or a project approved by an accredited incubator.
Capital investors — invest at least AED 2 million in government-approved funds or assets.
Skilled professionals — hold an employment contract in the UAE with an annual salary of AED 360,000+ and at least a bachelor’s degree.
Outstanding talents — award-winning individuals in science, culture, arts, or sports with endorsements from recognized authorities.
Top university graduates — high GPA in a relevant field and a degree from an accredited institution.

General Requirements

Across categories, the basic criteria include:

Age 18+.
No criminal record or ongoing investigations.
Valid UAE health insurance.
Proof of income or legal source of investment funds.
No immigration or visa violations.

Category-specific rules apply for investment amounts, qualifications, and professional fields.

According to iWorld Legal experts, “The real challenge is not only meeting the investment threshold but ensuring that the transaction and documentation fully comply with program requirements. Even well-funded applicants risk rejection if the property or contract doesn’t meet the standards.”

Required Documents

Depending on the category, you may need:

Passport and copies of all pages.
Passport-style photos.
Sales contract for property or company registration documents.
Bank statements confirming funds.
Academic degrees and proof of qualifications.
Medical insurance policy.
Police clearance certificate (with apostille and translation).

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

5–10 years of renewable residency.
Emirates ID and the right to reside without a local sponsor.
No personal income or dividend taxes.
Access to UAE bank accounts and simplified visa applications for the US and Schengen countries.
Residency rights for family members.
Access to top schools, universities, and healthcare facilities.
No requirement for continuous residence in the UAE.

Processing Time & Application Steps

The process typically takes 1–2 months:

Choose your eligibility category and confirm you meet the criteria.
Prepare and translate documents into English or Arabic.
Submit the application via UAE immigration services or authorized centers.
Complete the medical check and biometric submission.
Receive your Emirates ID and visa stamp.

Why Work with Specialists

While the program’s rules seem straightforward, in practice, the application involves precise compliance with UAE immigration regulations. Steps may vary between emirates, and property or business approvals can differ case by case.

If you’re considering the Golden Visa route, iWorld’s legal team can help you identify the best category for your situation, verify property or investment eligibility, prepare the application, and guide you through the process — reducing the risk of rejection and saving valuable time.

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.