TL;DR: The UAE Golden Visa grants 5- or 10-year residency to investors, skilled professionals, and entrepreneurs. Apply through official UAE portals, meet eligibility (AED 2 million property / AED 30 000 salary / approved profession), clear a medical test, and renew every 5 – 10 years.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
It’s a long-term residence program allowing eligible expatriates to live, work, and study in the UAE without a local sponsor. You retain 100 % business ownership and enjoy multi-entry privileges. Learn more on the Golden Visa Overview page.
Who qualifies for a 10-year Golden Visa?
Granted to investors with AED 2 million + equity, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding specialists, and exceptional talents endorsed by UAE authorities. See Eligibility Criteria.
Who can apply for a 5-year Golden Visa?
High-achieving students, skilled professionals earning AED 30 000 + monthly, and entrepreneurs can receive a 5-year residency.
How do property owners apply?
Submit a title-deed showing AED 2 million + property value. If mortgaged, attach a bank NOC and equity proof. Full process in Real Estate Route.
Can freelancers or remote workers apply?
Is a medical test mandatory?
Yes. All applicants must pass a UAE medical fitness exam including TB screening on renewal. See Medical Test Guide.
Can family members be included?
Golden Visa holders may sponsor their spouse and children of any age. Parents can also be sponsored under conditions. See Family Sponsorship.
How long does approval take?
Typically 2 – 4 weeks after document submission and medical clearance.
What are the main benefits?
Long-term stability, no sponsor needed, 100 % ownership, family and domestic staff sponsorship, and mobility across all emirates.
Can I work in any emirate?
What documents are required?
Passport, Emirates ID, photo, property or employment proof, attested degrees, salary certificate, and medical report.
Can employees upgrade to a Golden Visa?
Yes. Employees earning AED 30 000 + with recognized qualifications can upgrade via official portals. See Application Steps.
How do I renew the Golden Visa?
Renew online before expiry, repeat medical, and resubmit updated proofs. See Renewal Guide.
Does having a mortgage affect eligibility?
You remain eligible if paid-up equity ≥ AED 2 million and a bank NOC confirms it.
Where can I apply?
Through UAE ICP or Dubai GDRFA portals or authorized service centers. Full process at Steps & Process.
Can Indian citizens apply for the UAE Golden Visa?
Yes. Indian investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals earning AED 30 000 + qualify. Indians commonly apply via the Property Investment route or through employment as senior engineers, doctors, or finance professionals.
Is the process different for Pakistani nationals?
No — requirements are the same for all nationalities. Pakistani citizens most often qualify through the Skilled Professional path or as investors in companies registered in UAE Free Zones.
Are Egyptian residents eligible for the Golden Visa?
Yes. Egyptians qualify through the property, entrepreneur, and employment categories. Medical specialists and teachers with excellent records often receive Golden Visas under the Professional License type.
What about Filipino professionals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Filipino engineers, nurses, and IT professionals earning AED 30 000 + can apply via the employment route. Those owning UAE property worth AED 2 million + also qualify under the Investor Visa category.
Can Russian investors obtain the Golden Visa?
Yes. Russian nationals qualify via the property route or as entrepreneurs establishing companies in DMCC and other zones. Their family members can be sponsored as dependents under the Family Sponsorship program.