The UAE golden visa: a straightforward guide

The UAE golden visa is a residency program designed to attract foreign talents and investors by offering them the chance to live, work and study in the UAE under more flexible conditions than traditional visas.

This initiative targets a wide array of individuals, including investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, students and professionals, by providing them access to a range of benefits tailored to their contributions and achievements.

Key benefits and eligibility

The program allows for five or ten-year residency periods, removing the need for a local sponsor which is a significant difference from the usual residency requirements. This autonomy is particularly appealing to professionals and business people looking to explore opportunities in the UAE’s dynamic market without the usual bureaucratic hurdles.

For investors, the golden visa presents an opportunity to tap into the UAE’s real estate or business sectors with certain financial thresholds that need to be met, such as investing in properties worth at least(AED 2 million or having a deposit in an investment fund accredited in the UAE.

Entrepreneurs with innovative projects, and professionals in fields like medicine, science, engineering, and education, can apply for the golden visa if they meet specific criteria, such as holding particular qualifications, achieving professional excellence or contributing significantly to their field.

The UAE golden visa offers long-term residence for foreign talents, including investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students and humanitarian pioneers. Key benefits include a renewable five to ten-year visa without needing a sponsor, permission to stay outside the UAE for over six months, family sponsorship regardless of age and unlimited domestic helper sponsorship. Family members can remain in the UAE if the primary visa holder passes away. Holders also receive an initial six-month multiple-entry visa to proceed with residence issuance.

Application process

Applying for the golden visa involves checking eligibility, which can be done through the official ICP website. The process requires submitting personal information, relevant documents and application fees. Applicants can track their application status online, ensuring transparency and convenience.

Conclusion

The UAE golden visa is a strategic move by the UAE to enhance its position as a welcoming hub for global talent and investment. By simplifying the residency requirements and offering substantial benefits, the program is poised to attract a diverse group of individuals looking to make the UAE their home, whether for work, investment or study. It symbolises the UAE’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment for growth and innovation.

Whether you are moving for your career, or with your family, Ogier in Dubai can assist with employment, dependent and golden visas to ensure compliance with residency laws and provide a streamlined approval processes.

For an overview of golden visas, read our at a glance guide to UAE golden visas.

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Disclaimer

This client briefing has been prepared for clients and professional associates of Ogier. The information and expressions of opinion which it contains are not intended to be a comprehensive study or to provide legal advice and should not be treated as a substitute for specific advice concerning individual situations.

Regulatory information can be found under Legal Notice