UAE Golden Visa: Eligibility criteria, application process

The UAE’s Golden Visa program offers long-term residency to professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent. Designed to attract top-tier individuals across various sectors, the visa allows holders to live, work, and invest in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. Benefits include tax-free income, multi-entry access, extended stay durations, and the ability to sponsor family members.

Who Can Apply?

Professionals can qualify if they meet the following conditions:

• Hold a valid employment contract in a Level 1 or Level 2 job as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
  • Level 1 includes managers and executives
  • Level 2 covers skilled roles in IT, healthcare, education, engineering, law, and science
• Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher
• Earn a monthly salary of AED 30,000 or more

Latest Additions to Eligibility

As of May 2025, the UAE has expanded its Golden Visa categories to include:

• Long-serving nurses with over 15 years at Dubai Health
• Outstanding educators across private schools, early learning centres, and universities in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah (with support from KHDA and RAK DOK)
• Digital content creators, influencers, and filmmakers through the Creative Residency track launched at the 1 Billion Followers Summit
• Gaming and e-sports professionals aged 25+, accredited under the Dubai Programme for Gaming 2033 (DPG33)
• Luxury yacht owners (40m+ yachts) and key executives from the yachting industry, via Abu Dhabi’s Golden Quay initiative

These updates further reflect the UAE’s dedication to innovation, digital growth, education, and industry leadership.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following:

• Proof of Employment: MOHRE contract or free zone salary certificate showing a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000
• Bank Statements: Last six months showing consistent salary deposits
• Degree Certificate: Bachelor’s degree or higher, attested by the UAE embassy in the applicant’s home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• No Objection Certificate (NOC): Letter from the employer on official letterhead, signed by an authorized representative
• Nomination Letter: Required for fields such as arts, sports, innovation, digital media, or yachting
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for the applicant and dependents
• Passport and Photo: Valid passport with visa page and a recent passport-sized photo

Nomination Process

Applicants in certain categories must obtain a nomination from the relevant authority. Examples include:

• Dubai Culture Authority or Ministry of Culture – for arts and culture professionals
• Ministry of Economy – for inventors and innovators
• General Sports Authority or Dubai Sports Council – for athletes
• Emirates Council for AI and Digital Transactions – for tech/digital professionals
• Creators HQ – for influencers and content creators
• Dubai Culture – for gaming professionals
• Abu Dhabi Maritime or Golden Quay – for luxury yacht owners and industry leaders

Once a nomination is approved, applicants can proceed with submitting their full visa application.

How to Apply

You can apply through either:

GDRFA (Dubai)

Online:

• Visit the GDRFA website or use the smart app
• Log in via UAE Pass or registered account
• Search for “Golden Visa” and complete the form
• Upload required documents
• Pay the applicable fees:
  • Residence permit: AED 1,100
  • Knowledge fee: AED 10
  • Innovation fee: AED 10
  • In-country application fee: AED 500
  • Delivery: AED 20
    Note: AED 100 is added annually for visas valid beyond 2 years

In-person:

• Visit a Customer Happiness Centre or Amer Service Centre
• Take a queue ticket and submit documents at the counter
• Pay the fees and receive confirmation

ICP (Federal Authority)

• Visit the official ICA website
• Scroll to “Golden Visa” under services
• Choose your category and follow the instructions
• Register or log in to the Smart Services portal
• Apply for nomination, submit documents, and pay the fees
• Applications can be submitted online or at authorized service centres

What Happens Next?

Once the application is submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation via SMS and email. Processing updates will follow, and if approved, your visa will be issued—valid for 5 or 10 years depending on your category.

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