UAE Golden Visa 2025 Guide: Eligibility, Costs and Benefits
Published date:
September 23, 2025
Written by:
Dean Fankhauser
Reviewed by:
Radica Maneva
Our Editorial Standards:
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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 their careers and futures in the Gulf region.
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.
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 2022Cabinet Resolution No. 65/2022 introduced simplified rules and expanded categories.
2023–2025Eligibility and fees clarified by ICP, GDRFA Dubai, and ADRO/TAMM updates.
July 2025Authorities 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.
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.
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.
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: The Ministry of Education recommends UAE-based graduates with grades of 95% or higher.
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 AED2 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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
Talent-based categories usually require a fresh nomination letter from the relevant authority at renewal time.
Grace Period
After expiration or cancellation of their visas, Golden Visa holders benefit from a 180-day grace period to either regularise their status, apply for another permit, or leave the UAE.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
The UAE Golden Visa cost varies by emirate and applicant category. In most cases, government fees, medical tests, and Emirates ID issuance total around AED 5,000–6,000. Real estate investors also pay Dubai Land Department fees, while professionals and students face lower admin costs. Legal or service fees are extra.
Yes. Applicants can combine multiple properties in the UAE to reach the required AED 2 million minimum investment. All properties must be freehold, registered, and mortgage-free (or the equity must meet the threshold). The Dubai Land Department and other emirate registries will verify ownership.
No. One of the biggest advantages is that the UAE Golden Visa has no minimum stay requirement. Holders can reside abroad for extended periods without losing their residency, unlike many European investor visas.
If you sell your property and no longer meet the Golden Visa requirements, your visa may be cancelled at renewal. To remain eligible, you must either reinvest in another qualifying property or meet another category’s criteria.
The Golden Visa grants long-term residency, not citizenship. UAE citizenship remains highly selective and is usually granted by presidential decree. The Golden Visa offers stability but does not provide an automatic route to a passport.
Yes. Applicants must provide a criminal record certificate (issued within the past 90 days) showing no serious offences. This is a core part of the eligibility requirements for the UAE Golden Visa.
Yes. Applications can be made from inside or outside the UAE. If you apply abroad, you will first receive a six-month entry permit to complete your application process once you arrive in the Emirates.
No. Crypto investments do not qualify for Golden Visa eligibility. Only real estate, business investments, government bonds, or recognition in professional/talent categories are accepted.
Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children of any age, parents, and unlimited domestic staff. This broad coverage is one of the programme’s strongest benefits.
The UAE provides a 180-day grace period after expiry or cancellation of the Golden Visa. During this time, you can either renew, switch categories, or leave the country without penalties.
The UAE has no personal income tax, but whether you must pay taxes abroad depends on your home country’s tax rules and double tax treaties. Always consult a qualified professional during tax season.
Unlike European residency schemes, the UAE Golden Visa has no minimum stay requirement and broader family sponsorship. EU programmes (like Portugal or Greece) often lead to citizenship, while the UAE focuses on long-term renewable residency.
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.
At Movingto, we streamline the journey by guiding you through eligibility checks, preparing the right paperwork, and ensuring compliance with official regulations.
Our support means you spend less time navigating government portals and more time planning your future in the Emirates.
Whether you are applying as an investor, professional, or with your family, Movingto makes the Golden Visa process smoother, faster, and stress-free.
Join 2,468 other people who chose Movingto to help with their migration needs.
How we reviewed this article
All Movingto articles go through a rigorous review process before publication. Learn more about the Movingto Editorial Process.
Written by:
Dean Fankhauser
Immigration Expert
Dean is an immigration expert at Movingto. He helps with all migration needs for people looking to move to Spain and Portugal, with a particular focus on Golden Visas
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Radica is a Senior Editor at Movingto. She has worked for more than a decade at leading publications as an Editor across immigration and travel industries.
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