The UAE Golden Visa offers a long-term residency option for investors, entrepreneurs, talented professionals, and exceptional students. It allows foreigners to live, work, and study in the UAE for 5 or 10 years.
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a self-sponsored, long-term residency permit. Unlike standard visas, it does not require an employer as a sponsor. It allows holders to include spouses, children, and, in some cases, business partners.
Benefits of the Golden Visa
Holding a Golden Visa provides several advantages:
- Extended residency outside the UAE without affecting visa validity.
- Ability to work without a separate employment permit.
- Access to government services like health and education.
- Visa-free travel to 133 countries and visa-on-arrival to 47.
- Opportunities for high-value real estate investments.
- Exemption from personal income tax and favorable double taxation agreements.
Who Is Eligible?
The UAE Golden Visa targets:
- Investors and entrepreneurs
- Teachers and educational leaders
- Exceptional talents, scientists, and professionals
- Outstanding students and graduates
- Humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes
Eligibility requirements vary by category, but generally include proven skills, qualifications, clean criminal records, and financial capacity.
UAE Golden Visa for Investors
10-Year Residency
Investors can qualify for a 10-year visa by making a public investment of at least AED 2 million, including:
- Real estate purchases
- Business or company investments
- Maintaining the investment for at least three years
The visa can also include spouses, children, business partners, and select executives.
2-Year Residency
A 2-year residency is available for property investments of AED 750,000 or more. Spouses and children under 18 can be included. A down payment of 50% is required if financing through a loan.
Golden Visa for Educators
Teachers and school leaders can qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa if they demonstrate outstanding contributions to education. Applicants must show:
- Improved student outcomes
- Academic achievements and innovation
- Recognition by schools or educational authorities
Eligible positions include teachers, principals, academic heads, and higher education faculty in Dubai.
Application Process
- Entry Visa: Obtain an entry visa if needed.
- Investment or Eligibility Proof: Complete investment or gather documents.
- Submit Application: Apply online or in Dubai/Abu Dhabi.
- Approval & Notification: Receive updates via email and SMS.
Applications typically take around three months. Missing documents must be submitted within 30 days.
Fees and Renewal
- Application fees range from AED 2,800 to 4,800 depending on residency category.
- Renewal occurs before visa expiry, typically for 10 years, with a fee of AED 5,000–10,000.
- Required documents include passport, Emirates ID, health certificate, investment proofs, and employment verification.
Tax Advantages
UAE residents enjoy no income tax and exemptions on capital gains. Double taxation agreements with over 130 countries ensure income is not taxed twice.
UAE Golden Visa vs Citizenship
The Golden Visa grants long-term residency but not automatic citizenship. Exceptional contributions may lead to citizenship in some cases. Dual citizenship is allowed under UAE law.
Final Thoughts
The UAE Golden Visa opens doors to long-term residency, investment opportunities, and family inclusion. It is ideal for those seeking stability, education, and business opportunities in the UAE.
Need Assistance?
For guidance on obtaining the UAE Golden Visa, including investment planning and document preparation, contact AR Associates. Our experts can simplify the process and ensure a smooth application.
