UAE Golden Visa Guide (2025): Long-Term Residency
- Radu Lupescu
- May 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 7
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program that has positioned the Emirates as a global magnet for top talent, investors, and innovators. Whether you’re a skilled professional, entrepreneur, property investor, or academic, this visa offers the freedom to live, work, and thrive in one of the world’s most forward-thinking countries—without the need for a local sponsor.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the UAE Golden Visa in 2025: eligibility, categories, benefits, costs, and how to apply.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
Introduced in 2019, the Golden Visa is a 5- or 10-year renewable residence visa granted to foreign nationals who contribute significantly to the UAE economy or society. Unlike standard work or investor visas, the Golden Visa is self-sponsored, providing a stable and long-term residency pathway for professionals, investors, creatives, and students.
Who is Eligible for the Golden Visa?
As of 2025, the Golden Visa covers a broad set of categories:
1. Investors
Public investments: AED 2 million minimum in UAE-approved investment funds.
Property investors: Own real estate worth AED 2 million+, fully paid or mortgaged through approved UAE banks.
2. Entrepreneurs
Own a startup based on tech, innovation, or future industries.
Project must be accredited by a recognized UAE incubator or the Ministry of Economy.
Option for past startup founders who exited a business valued at AED 7 million+.
3. Skilled Professionals
Specialization in medicine, science, IT, engineering, law, education, or business.
Must earn a monthly salary of AED 30,000+ (~USD 8,200).
Requires:
Bachelor’s degree or higher
Valid employment contract in the UAE
Job classified under MOHRE skill level 1 or 2
4. Exceptional Talents
Granted via recommendation or approval by UAE government entities
Categories: culture, art, sports, technology, innovation
No education, salary, or employment requirements
5. Scientists and Researchers
Endorsement from the Emirates Scientists Council
Must hold a PhD or Master’s in science or technology fields
Proven contribution through published research or patents
6. Outstanding Students
High school students with a UAE grade average above 95%
University students in top 100 global institutions with GPA 3.8+
Includes coverage for family members
7. Humanitarian Workers
Employees or volunteers of international or regional organizations
Recognized for significant humanitarian efforts or long-term service
8. Doctors and Medical Specialists
Licensed by UAE health authorities
Specializations in high-demand fields (e.g., epidemiology, oncology, cardiology)
What Are the Benefits of the Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa comes with a wide range of benefits designed to offer stability and lifestyle advantages:
Benefit | Details |
Long-Term Residency | 5 or 10 years, automatically renewable if criteria are still met |
No Sponsor Required | Self-sponsored visa; freedom from company or family sponsorship |
Family Sponsorship | Sponsor spouse, children, and domestic helpers with no additional salary requirements |
Extended Grace Period After Cancellation | Up to 6 months to stay in the UAE after visa expiry or cancellation |
Business Freedom | Run a business, invest, or freelance without needing a local sponsor |
Fast-Track Airport Services | Many visa holders receive e-gate access and priority processing |
Eligibility for Multiple Properties | Easier access to real estate opportunities and home loans |
Recognition & Prestige | Seen as a mark of trust and contribution to UAE’s vision |
How to Apply for the Golden Visa (2025)
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Review your category and ensure you meet all criteria.
Gather required documentation (degrees, licenses, proof of income, etc.)
Step 2: Apply Online
Applications can be made through:
UAE ICP Smart Services: https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae
GDRFA Dubai Portal: https://gdrfad.gov.ae
Typing centers or Amer centers (Dubai only)
Step 3: Approval & Visa Issuance
If your application is approved, you’ll receive an entry permit (if outside UAE) or visa conversion instructions (if inside UAE).
You’ll undergo:
Medical fitness test
Emirates ID biometrics
Visa stamping or digital residency issuance
Step 4: Sponsor Family Members (Optional)
Once your Golden Visa is issued, apply to sponsor your spouse, children, and support staff.
Cost Breakdown (Approximate)
Item | AED | USD Approx. |
Application Fees | 250–350 | $68–$95 |
Golden Visa Issuance (10-year) | 2,800–4,000 | $760–$1,090 |
Medical Test | 300–500 | $80–$135 |
Emirates ID (10 years) | 1,000–1,200 | $270–$325 |
Family Sponsorship (optional) | Varies per case | — |
Fees may vary depending on category, emirate, and whether you are applying inside or outside the UAE.
Processing Time
Typically 4 to 6 weeks, depending on application complexity and documentation.
For high-demand categories (investors, skilled professionals), expect faster turnaround via express channels.
Can You Work or Run a Business?
Yes! Golden Visa holders can:
Work for a company
Freelance or consult
Open a mainland or free zone business
Buy and lease property
Hire domestic workers
You are not tied to any single employer or sponsor.
Real Estate and the Golden Visa
The Golden Visa has become popular with property investors, especially in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah.
To qualify:
Invest in one or more properties worth AED 2 million+
Mortgaged properties qualify if down payment meets AED 2M and bank is UAE-based
Off-plan properties are accepted from select developers
2025 Updates & Key Trends
Streamlined digital application process via ICP and GDRFA platforms
Wider access to artists, coders, and green tech professionals
Expansion of property investor eligibility to include jointly owned or off-plan real estate
More applicants now qualify via salary + education without needing employer sponsorship
Final Thoughts: Is the Golden Visa Right for You?
If you’re looking to settle in the UAE long-term while maintaining professional flexibility and family stability, the Golden Visa is a powerful tool. It supports your career, investment, and lifestyle ambitions without the usual visa restrictions.
Whether you’re a tech executive, a skilled engineer, a medical professional, or an entrepreneur chasing a vision, this visa puts you in control of your residency and future in the UAE.
More resources:
Check out more articles on uaelifeguide.com to explore visas, employment, housing, and living tips in the UAE.
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