UAE Golden Visa: Everything you need to know

Many people are now eligible to receive it — but only through the proper channels

In 2019, the UAE introduced the Golden Visa, offering exceptional individuals the opportunity to live, work, and study in the country under their own sponsorship. The long-term visa grants foreign nationals residency for either five or ten years, depending on eligibility, and has become one of the most sought-after residency programmes in the region.

But here’s an important reminder: the Golden Visa can only be obtained through the proper government channels, and no “lifetime visas” are being granted to specific nationalities. This follows recent clarification from the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), who reiterated that all Golden Visa categories, requirements, and conditions are defined and governed by official legislation and ministerial decisions.

So, if you’re planning to apply, make sure you’re following the official path — and not getting caught up in rumours. The good news? More and more people are eligible across a growing number of sectors, and here’s what you need to know…

What are the benefits of a UAE Golden Visa?

Obviously, long-term residency is a huge benefit for Golden Visa holders, but there are also tax benefits, plus investment, education and retirement opportunities that don’t exist for other visa holders. Of course, as a UAE resident you benefit from the country’s world class infrastructure and amenities, and can also sponsor your family under the visa.

Golden Visa holders can benefit from the following:

• an entry visa for 6 months with multiple entries
• a long term renewable visa which is valid for 5 or 10 years
• the ability to stay outside the UAE for more than the usual period of six months in order to keep their residence visa valid
• the ability to sponsor family members
• the ability to sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers

While these are the main benefits, there are other perks that come with the Golden Visa too such as:

• the ability to apply for a driving license without taking lessons
• exclusive health insurance packages
• greater flexibility with employment

What are the criteria for a UAE Golden Visa?

There are several categories within the scheme. You need to consider the category that you will be applying for and seek proper advice to ensure it is the correct fit for you and matches your timelines. You can take a quiz to find out if you are eligible. A rough guide to the different criteria is as follows:

Property Golden Visa

If you own a property or a portfolio of properties valued at over Dhs2,000,000, you may be eligible for a five-year residency visa. The property must be fully paid or financed through a loan from one of the UAE’s approved local banks.

Image: Archive