UAE Golden Visa Renewal & Switching Guide
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Renew your Golden Visa by keeping your original route eligible (e.g., Title Deed ≥ AED 2M or Salary/Professionals). If eligibility changes, switch routes before expiry.
- Start renewal 3–6 months before expiry.
- Family visas renew after sponsor keeps eligibility.
- If criteria no longer met, switch to a valid route (steps below).
Renewal Requirements by Route
| Route | Keep Eligible | Docs at Renewal |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate (AED 2M) | Title Deed(s) must still total ≥ AED 2,000,000. Off-plan/mortgage rules may apply. | Updated Deed(s), NOC/mortgage letter if relevant, EID, insurance. |
| Salary / Professionals | Skilled role + monthly salary threshold (commonly AED 30k) still met. | Contract, salary certificate, 6m bank statements, degree (MOFA) if requested. |
| Investors / Talent | Maintain the qualifying investment or talent credentials as per approval letter. | Updated proofs per authority (licenses, letters, portfolio, etc.). |
Grace Periods & Timing
- Start the process 3–6 months before expiry to avoid last-minute issues.
- If you cannot renew under the same route, start the switch (below) before expiry.
How to Switch Routes (Step-by-Step)
- Confirm the new route (e.g., Real Estate 2M or Salary/Professionals).
- Gather its required documents (see each route guide).
- If a renewal is already submitted, cancel/withdraw as instructed by the authority.
- Apply under the new route and complete medical/EID if required.
- Update dependent sponsorship once your new status is issued.
Family Sponsorship at Renewal
Dependents renew after the sponsor keeps eligibility. Age limits and relationship proofs still apply. See Family Sponsorship Guide.
Common Pitfalls
- Selling property below AED 2M without switching routes.
- Salary/role changes that drop below threshold and not switching in time.
- Missing attestations/translations on relationship documents for dependents.