UAE Golden Visa 2025 Guide: Eligibility, Costs and Benefits

The United Arab Emirates is one of the most attractive destinations for global investors, ambitious professionals, and entrepreneurs. With its thriving economy, favourable tax environment, and world-class lifestyle, the country continues to attract people who wish to build both their careers and futures in the Gulf region.

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At the centre of this appeal is the UAE Golden Visa, the nation’s flagship long-term residency programme. Designed to draw talent and investment, it provides foreign nationals with a secure, renewable residence permit that allows them to live, work, and study in the UAE without a local sponsor.

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Since its launch, the Golden Visa has become increasingly popular, often described as a reliable 10-year pathway to residency security. Whether through real estate, entrepreneurship, or professional expertise, the program offers multiple routes to securing long-term status in the UAE.

Key Takeaways

Updated 2025

AED 2M+Minimum investment

1–2 monthsTypical processing time

5 or 10 yearsVisa duration, renewable

No stay ruleUnlimited travel flexibility

Real estate route

Own property worth at least AED 2M (can be combined, mortgaged with bank approval, or off-plan from approved developers).

Public investment route

Invest AED 2M in funds or establish a company with AED 2M capital, or own a company paying AED 250K in annual taxes.

Entrepreneurs & startups

Founders of SMEs generating AED 1M+, sold ventures worth AED 7M+, or startups approved by incubators or government bodies.

Exceptional talents

Artists, innovators, athletes, and digital experts may qualify with official nominations regardless of salary or academic degree.

Students & graduates

Top high school students (95%+), UAE university graduates with high GPAs, or global top-100 graduates with GPA ≥3.5.

Scientists & professionals

PhD/Master’s holders in priority fields, skilled professionals earning AED 30K+, and executive directors earning AED 50K+.

Humanitarian pioneers

Individuals with 5+ years in humanitarian work, award recipients, or funders contributing AED 2M+ to recognised causes.

Frontline heroes

Healthcare professionals and crisis responders recognised by official authorities for extraordinary service during national emergencies.

Oct 2022 Cabinet Resolution No. 65/2022 introduced simplified rules and expanded categories.

2023–2025 Eligibility and fees clarified by ICP, GDRFA Dubai, and ADRO/TAMM updates.

July 2025 Authorities confirm no eligibility for digital currency investors.

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit that can be issued for either five or ten years depending on the applicant’s category. It is renewable, provided the eligibility requirements remain fulfilled.

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Unlike ordinary residence permits, which are tied to an employer or sponsor, the Golden Visa allows holders to reside in the Emirates without that dependency. This self-sponsorship element makes it particularly attractive for investors, skilled professionals, and entrepreneurs who want stability and flexibility.

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The current framework is set out under Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, which expanded the list of eligible categories and simplified the application process. The reform marked a shift from a purely investment-driven scheme to a broader strategy focused on attracting human capital, innovation, and expertise.

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At its core, the Golden Visa is not only a residence document but also a policy tool. It forms part of the UAE’s long-term plan to diversify its economy, support knowledge-based industries, and establish the country as a global hub for talent and business.

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Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

Holding a UAE Golden Visa comes with a range of advantages that go far beyond a regular residence permit. Here are the main benefits:

Long-term residency

The Golden Visa grants 5 or 10 years of residency that can be renewed, giving holders a stable, predictable future in the UAE without worrying about frequent renewals or short-term visas.

No sponsor needed

Unlike standard residence permits tied to employers, the Golden Visa is fully self-sponsored. This gives freedom to change jobs, start businesses, or invest without dependency on a local sponsor.

Extended travel flexibility

Golden Visa holders may remain outside the UAE for more than 180 days without losing residency, making it ideal for global professionals, investors, and frequent travellers balancing international commitments.

Family sponsorship

Visa holders can sponsor their spouse and children regardless of age, ensuring the entire family benefits from long-term stability and access to education, healthcare, and work opportunities in the UAE.

Parents included

The scheme allows sponsoring of parents under certain conditions, helping families stay together across generations and making the UAE a genuine option for long-term family settlement and care.

Domestic staff sponsorship

Golden Visa holders can legally sponsor an unlimited number of domestic workers, such as drivers, nannies, or housekeepers, provided they meet financial solvency rules set by immigration authorities.

Security for dependants

If the main visa holder passes away, dependants are entitled to remain in the UAE until the permit expires, protecting families from sudden relocations during difficult times.

Initial entry permit

Approved applicants receive a six-month multiple-entry visa, allowing them to enter the UAE, complete paperwork, arrange housing, and transition smoothly into permanent long-term residency status.

Access to key services

Golden Visa holders often enjoy smoother access to banking, mortgage products, healthcare, schooling, and government services, reflecting the programme’s recognition as a premium residency status.

Business opportunities

The visa provides flexibility to establish, own, or expand companies in the UAE, benefiting from the country’s business-friendly regulations, global connectivity, and access to regional markets.

Prestige and stability

Holding a Golden Visa is recognised as a mark of commitment to the UAE, signalling trust and stability while providing the peace of mind of long-term legal residence.

In short: the Golden Visa transforms the UAE from a short-term work destination into a place where you can plan for long-term living, investment, and family security.

Who is Eligible for the UAE Golden Visa?

Eligibility for the UAE Golden Visa is defined by Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022 and spans several categories. Each has specific criteria and documentation requirements.

Investors

Public investment: Deposit at least AED 2 million in an accredited investment fund, establish a company with AED 2 million in capital, or own a company paying AED 250,000 in annual taxes.
Real estate investment: Own property worth at least AED 2 million, which may be spread across multiple units. If you pay at least AED 2 million for mortgaged properties, we will accept off-plan projects from approved developers.

Entrepreneurs

SME founders: Own or be a partner in a UAE-registered SME generating annual revenues of AED 1 million or more.
Startup founders: Secure approval for a business idea from an accredited incubator or government body.
Exit founders: Previously founded and sold a project with a value of at least AED 7 million.

Exceptional Talents

The position is open to individuals with exceptional talents in the fields of culture, arts, invention, innovation, digital technologies, and sport.
Candidates must receive an official nomination or recommendation from relevant government entities, such as the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Economy, or sports councils.

Scientists & Specialised Professionals

Scientists and researchers: Hold a PhD or Master’s degree in priority fields and demonstrate significant research contributions, endorsed by the Emirates Scientists Council.
Skilled professionals are required to possess a bachelor's degree, secure employment in a MOHRE Level 1 or 2 role, and earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000.
Executive directors: Require a bachelor’s degree, five years of senior management experience, and a monthly salary of at least AED 50,000.

Outstanding Students & Graduates

High school students: UAE-based graduates who have achieved grades of 95% or higher and are recommended by the Ministry of Education.‍
University graduates: Recent graduates from UAE universities that are ranked A or B, or from universities in the world’s top 100, who have a GPA of 3.5 or above.

Humanitarian Pioneers

Humanitarian Pioneers are individuals who have made substantial contributions to humanitarian work, such as serving in recognised organisations for five years, receiving international awards, or funding initiatives with AED 2 million or more.

Frontline Heroes

Healthcare professionals and other crisis responders who showed extraordinary commitment during national emergencies (e.g., COVID-19). Eligibility depends on recommendations from recognised authorities, such as the Frontline Heroes Office.

If you are unsure which category you may qualify under, you can use the UAE government’s official tool to check eligibility directly: Golden Visa Eligibility Checker.

Who Can Apply for the UAE Golden Visa?

While eligibility defines the categories and requirements, the application itself is open to a wide group of people depending on their circumstances. Here is how it works in practice:

Primary applicants: The main investor, entrepreneur, professional, student, or talent must apply directly. In most cases, the application is submitted through the ICP portal (federal), GDRFA Dubai, or the Abu Dhabi Residents Office (ADRO).
Family members: Once the main applicant is approved, their spouse, children of any age, and in some cases parents can apply under the same file. Dependants do not submit independent applications unless they are qualifying in their own right.
Inside or outside the UAE: Applicants already in the UAE on a tourist visa, visit visa, or another residence permit can convert their status into a Golden Visa. Those abroad may apply using the entry permit issued after approval.
Representatives and service providers: Applications may also be lodged by authorised representatives such as PROs, law firms, or licensed service centres (e.g. Amer Centres in Dubai), provided the applicant’s documents and digital identity (UAE Pass) are verified.
Nominated talents: For categories such as exceptional talents, scientists, or humanitarian pioneers, the candidate must first be recommended by a competent authority. After nomination, the individual applies personally through the official portal.
Employers and institutions: In practice, some employers, incubators, or universities assist applicants by preparing or submitting documentation, but the residence permit is always issued in the individual’s name.

📌In short, any eligible foreign national can apply directly, whether inside or outside the country, and may include their dependants once approved.

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UAE Golden Visa Requirements by Category

To apply for the UAE Golden Visa, applicants must prepare specific documents according to their category.

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These serve as proof of eligibility and must meet validity rules set by the authorities. Below is a breakdown of the main requirements.

Category	Required Documents	Validity & Notes
Real Estate Investors	• Title deed or e-title certificate (property ≥ AED 2M) • Bank no-objection certificate if mortgaged (confirm ≥ AED 2M paid) • Off-plan purchase contract from approved developer • Health insurance	Title deed must be current. Mortgage NOC must state equity paid. Insurance must cover all dependants.
Public Investors (Funds & Companies)	• Letter from accredited UAE investment fund confirming ≥ AED 2M deposit • Company licence and Memorandum of Association proving ≥ AED 2M capital • Federal Tax Authority certificate showing ≥ AED 250k tax paid in last year • Health insurance	Capital cannot be financed by loan. Tax letter valid for last financial year. Insurance must be active.
Entrepreneurs	• Trade licence and SME certificate proving ≥ AED 1M revenue • Proof of previous project sold for ≥ AED 7M (if applicable) • Business incubator or authority approval letter for new ventures • Health insurance	SME certificate must be current. Incubator approvals must come from recognised bodies (e.g. Hub71, Dubai Future Foundation).
Exceptional Talents	• Nomination or recommendation letter from relevant body (e.g. Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Economy, General Sports Authority) • Evidence of talent (e.g. patents, awards, publications, achievements) • Health insurance	No salary or education requirement. Nomination letters are mandatory and must be original.
Scientists & Specialised Professionals	• Attested degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) • Employment contract in the UAE • Salary certificate and bank statement (≥ AED 30k per month for professionals; ≥ AED 50k for executives) • Experience letters (minimum 5 years for executives) • Emirates Scientists Council recommendation (for researchers) • Health insurance	Degrees must be attested by the UAE Ministry of Education. Salary evidence usually covers the past 6 months.
Outstanding Students & Graduates	• High school certificate (95%+ for UAE schools) and Ministry of Education recommendation • University degree certificate and transcript (GPA ≥ 3.5 for top UAE or global universities) • Attestation from Ministry of Education • Health insurance	University graduation must be within the last 2 years. GPA thresholds differ for A and B-class UAE universities.
Humanitarian Pioneers	• Proof of at least 5 years’ service with humanitarian organisations • Award certificates from recognised humanitarian bodies • Evidence of financial contribution ≥ AED 2M (if donor) • Recommendation from Ministry of Community Development • Health insurance	Service/award evidence must be certified. Contribution proof must be verifiable through official channels.
Frontline Heroes	• Nomination letter from the Frontline Heroes Office or relevant authority • Professional credentials (e.g. nursing, medical, technical licences) • Health insurance	Reserved for individuals recognised for service during crises. Nomination is essential.

Note: Most official documents, such as criminal record certificates, must be issued within 90 days of submission, and financial/tax records are usually valid for the latest fiscal year. Health insurance is mandatory for all main applicants and their dependants.

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This procedure ensures that every applicant meets the legal criteria and maintains up-to-date, verifiable documentation for a smooth application process.

Application Process

Federal ICP portal
Use the ICP Smart Services portal with UAE Pass to apply, track status, and complete the One Touch flow. The portal consolidates visa issuance, status changes, and Emirates ID processing into a single journey.
Dubai — GDRFA
Applicants in Dubai can file via GDRFA online or through Amer service Centres. Real estate investors often interact with channels linked to the DLD for title verification and to check for liens when necessary.
Abu Dhabi — ADRO (TAMM)
Abu Dhabi applicants typically start through ADRO guidance on TAMM. Certain categories of applicants, such as specialists and investors, may utilise nomination flows before proceeding to the ICP for issuance.

Step-by-step

Step 1 (1–3 days)

Confirm your category and basic eligibility. Check salary thresholds, property value, or required nominations. Identify any gaps early to avoid rework later in the process.

Step 2 (Same day)

Create or verify your UAE Pass account and choose the channel: ICP (federal), GDRFA Dubai, or ADRO via TAMM. Ensure your profile details match your passport exactly.

Step 3 (1–8 weeks)

Obtain required nominations or endorsements, if applicable. Examples include scientists, exceptional talents, or humanitarian pioneers who need approval from the competent authority.

Step 4 (1–3 weeks)

Prepare documents: contracts, title deeds or valuation letters, salary certificates, attested degrees, insurance, and clear criminal record. Align names, dates, and translations precisely.

Step 5 (Same day)

Submit your application through the chosen portal and pay the service fees. Upload scans that meet file-size and resolution rules. Monitor notifications for any clarification requests.

Step 6 (3–10 days)

If outside the UAE, receive a six-month multiple-entry permit to finalise procedures. If inside the UAE, complete an in-country status change instead of exiting and re-entering.

Step 7 (2–5 days)

Attend medical fitness screening at an approved centre and submit biometrics. Results and fingerprints link to your Emirates ID record for final issuance steps.

Step 8 (5–15 days)

Receive your Emirates ID and activate the residence. Digital visa and ID become available in your account. You can now sponsor family and proceed with banking or housing.

Fees and Costs

Applying for the UAE Golden Visa involves several mandatory fees.

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These differ slightly depending on the emirate, the application channel (ICP federal system vs GDRFA Dubai), and the chosen route (talent, real estate investor, etc.).

Key Components of the Cost

Application Fee (ICP / GDRFA) – the base charge for processing Golden Visa requests.
Medical Examination – required health check before issuance.
Emirates ID – a mandatory identification card linked to residency.
Real Estate Investor Fees – Dubai Land Department (DLD) charges, such as title deed registration and administrative costs.
Delivery & Smart Services – small extra charges applied for courier delivery, e-services, and ICP smart platform usage.

Official Fee Table (as of 2025)

Authority	Service	Fee (AED)	Notes
ICP	Golden Visa Application Fee	100	Standard federal application charge
ICP	Smart Services Fee	100	Technology fee per transaction
ICP	Electronic Services Fee	28	Minor processing charge
ICP	Contribution Fee	22	Standard federal contribution
ICP	Entry Permit (6 months, multiple entry)	1,000	For applicants outside UAE
GDRFA Dubai	Residence Permit Fee (10-year)	1,100	For talented individuals and students
GDRFA Dubai	Extra Fee (if applying inside UAE)	500	Local processing
GDRFA Dubai	Delivery Fee	20	Courier delivery of documents
GDRFA Dubai	Annual Fee Increase (multi-year permits)	100 / year	Increment per year
Dubai Land Dept. (DLD)	Real Estate Investor Fee	4,020	Title deed / investor service
Dubai Land Dept. (DLD)	Administrative Fees	1,155	Documentation charges
Federal / General	Medical Examination	~700	Varies by authorised centre
Federal / General	Emirates ID (10-year)	1,153	Linked to residence
Federal / General	Confirmation of Residency Permit	2,856.75	Final confirmation fee

Renewal, Grace Periods, and Cancellations

Renewal

‍Golden Visas can be renewed for an additional 5 or 10 years, provided that the holder continues to meet the same criteria as required in the original application.

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Talent-based categories usually require a fresh nomination letter from the relevant authority at renewal time.

Grace Period

‍After expiration or cancellation of their visa, Golden Visa holders benefit from a 180-day grace period to either regularise their status, apply for another permit, or leave the UAE.

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This grace period is significantly longer than the standard 30–90 days provided for ordinary residence visas.

Cancellation

‍A Golden Visa may be cancelled if the original qualifying conditions are no longer met. Common cases include:

Selling a property that was used to qualify, without reinvesting in another eligible property, may lead to cancellation of the Golden Visa.
Losing a qualifying job (such as a skilled professional) without finding a replacement that offers the same salary or occupational level is another common scenario.

Amendments

UAE Golden visa holders can update or amend their details without cancelling the visa. Examples include:

Changing employers while maintaining MOHRE levels and salary requirements.
Updating the profession on the residence file.
Replacing property with another eligible investment worth at least AED 2 million.

Timeline: How Long Does the UAE Golden Visa Application Take?

The UAE Golden Visa process has several stages, but the overall timeframe is usually 1 to 2 months from submission to receiving your residence permit and Emirates ID. Here’s what that looks like in practice:

Entry Permit (valid for 6 months)
If you are applying outside the UAE, you will first be granted a multiple-entry permit. This gives you time to travel into the country and complete the medical, biometric, and visa formalities.
Medical Examination and Biometrics
Once in the UAE, you must attend a government-approved medical fitness test and provide fingerprints and a facial scan. These steps link directly to your Emirates ID record.
Emirates ID and Residence Visa Stamping
After clearance, your Emirates ID is issued and your residence permit is activated. At this point, you officially hold the UAE Golden Visa and can begin sponsoring family members or arranging services like banking and housing.

👉 For a detailed step-by-step breakdown with estimated durations for each stage, see the application guide above.

How the UAE Golden Visa Compares to Other Residency Programs

The UAE Golden Visa is often compared with European schemes such as Portugal, Italy, Greece, Cyprus, and Malta. While the benefits are broadly similar, the UAE stands out with no minimum stay requirement and more inclusive family sponsorship.

Route	Minimum investment	Where / scope	Rules	Use limits	Notes
Portugal Golden Visa	€500,000 (funds) / €280–500k (real estate, depending on location)	Designated areas outside Lisbon, Porto, Algarve	Residency tied to investment	Must spend 7 days per year in Portugal	One of the most flexible EU paths to citizenship (5 years)
Italy Investor Visa	€250,000 (innovative startup) / €500,000 (company shares) / €2m (govt bonds)	Nationwide investments	Renewable 2-year visa, convert to long-term permit	No family inclusion beyond spouse/children	Residency tied to active investment; requires presence
Greece Golden Visa	€250k–800k (real estate, depending on zone)	Higher thresholds in Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini	Property ownership required	No minimum stay but rental restrictions	Residence card renewable every 5 years; EU mobility
Cyprus Permanent Residency	€300,000 (real estate)	Properties from approved developers	Residency, not citizenship track	Must visit Cyprus once every 2 years	Applies only in Republic of Cyprus, not the north
UAE Golden Visa	AED 2m (~€500k) property or equivalent investment	Nationwide (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, other emirates)	5- or 10-year renewable residence permit	No minimum stay requirement	Extensive family inclusion (spouse, children, parents); unlimited domestic staff
Malta Permanent Residency	€100k contribution + €40k fees + property commitment	Nationwide (buy or rent property)	Permanent residency, renew every 5 years	No minimum stay but ongoing property/fee obligations	Not a Golden Visa in name but functions similarly

In short, the UAE Golden Visa offers long-term stability without relocation obligations, making it distinct from the European residency-by-investment routes.

How Does Movingto Simplify the Golden Visa Process?

Securing the UAE Golden Visa can feel overwhelming with its different categories, documents, and emirate-specific procedures.

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At Movingto, we streamline the journey by guiding you through eligibility checks, preparing the right paperwork, and ensuring compliance with official regulations.

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Our support means you spend less time navigating government portals and more time planning your future in the Emirates.

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Whether you are applying as an investor, professional, or with your family, Movingto makes the Golden Visa process smoother, faster, and stress-free.

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