The UAE has become one of the world’s most desirable destinations for expats seeking long-term stability, exceptional lifestyle, and lucrative economic opportunities. To support global talent and strengthen its economy, the UAE introduced the prestigious Golden Visa a long-term residency program that allows foreigners to live, work, and study in the country without the need for a local sponsor.
For many expats, understanding the Golden Visa procedure in UAE can feel overwhelming due to multiple categories, eligibility rules, documentation requirements, and application channels. This comprehensive guide breaks down the golden visa process in Dubai and across the UAE, step-by-step, so you can navigate it confidently and secure your long-term residency with ease.
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency scheme offering 5-year or 10-year renewable visas for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, scientists, outstanding students, humanitarian workers, and highly talented individuals in cultural, artistic, or creative fields.
Key benefits include:
- Long-term residency without a sponsor
- 100% business ownership in mainland companies
- Extended stay outside UAE (up to 6 months or more)
- Sponsorship of spouse, children, and in some cases, parents
- Ability to hire domestic helpers
- Security and stability for investors and professionals
The golden visa has become one of the most powerful residence programs globally, making the UAE a preferred destination for expats planning a secure future.
Who Is Eligible for the UAE Golden Visa?
Before starting the golden visa procedure UAE, you must confirm your eligibility category. The most common categories include:
1. Real Estate Investors
- Minimum property investment: AED 2 million (varies by emirate).
- Can be off-plan or ready property depending on rules.
- Joint ownership allowed if personal share meets requirement.
2. Entrepreneurs
- Startup or SME generating AED 1 million+ in annual revenue.
- Founders of globally scalable or innovative businesses.
- Approval from certified UAE incubators or authorities.
3. Investors in Business
- Investment in a UAE company with capital of AED 2 million+.
- Or holding shares worth AED 2 million in an existing company.
4. Highly Skilled Professionals
- Category includes doctors, engineers, IT professionals, executives, and more.
- Monthly salary requirement: AED 30,000 or AED 50,000 (category-dependent).
- Valid employment contract in a profession classified at skill level 1 or 2.
5. Scientists & Researchers
- Accredited by Emirates Scientists Council.
- Holders of PhD or specialized research achievements.
6. Outstanding Students
- High achievers from UAE schools and recognized international universities.
- GPA requirements apply.
7. Creative Individuals & Cultural Talent
- Artists, designers, athletes, media professionals.
- Endorsement required from relevant local cultural authorities.
The UAE continues to expand eligible categories, making the golden visa more accessible than ever.
Complete Step-by-Step Golden Visa Procedure in UAE
Below is the full golden visa process in Dubai and UAE, explained in simple steps. The process is similar across all emirates but may vary slightly depending on your category (investor, professional, entrepreneur, etc.).
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility Category
Before you begin, review the updated eligibility criteria on the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) or GDRFA (Dubai) portal. This ensures you select the correct category and prepare suitable documentation.
Pro Tip:
If unsure, apply for a Pre-Eligibility Assessment through:
- GDRFA Dubai
- ICP Smart Services
- Accredited real estate developers (for property investors)
This avoids application rejection due to category mismatch.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Documentation varies by category, but common documents include:
For All Applicants:
- Passport copy (valid 6+ months)
- Emirates ID (if available)
- Passport-size photograph with white background
- Current UAE visa copy (if applicable)
Specific Category Documents:
Investors:
- Title deed showing AED 2 million+ value
- Property valuation report
- NOC from developer (if needed)
Professionals:
- Employment contract
- Salary certificate
- Attested educational degree
- Professional license (if applicable)
Entrepreneurs:
- Business license
- Audited financial statements
- Company profile
- Startup approval letter
Students:
- School or university recommendation
- Academic transcripts
Organizing documents clearly helps speed up the approval process.
Step 3: Apply for Nomination (If Required)
Some categories require initial approval or nomination from a competent authority. This includes:
- Scientists: Emirates Scientists Council
- Creative talents: Ministry of Culture
- Doctors or specialists: UAE health authorities
- Entrepreneurs: Government-accredited incubator
Once you submit documents online, the authority reviews and approves your eligibility.
After nomination approval, you can proceed to apply for the visa.
Step 4: Submit the Golden Visa Application Online
You can submit your application through:
Dubai Residents:
- GDRFA Dubai website or mobile app
- Amer Centre (physical service centers)
Other Emirates (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.):
- ICP Smart Services portal
Upload all required documents, choose the correct golden visa category, and pay the application fee.
Fees typically range from AED 2,800 to AED 4,000 depending on category and emirate.
Step 5: Receive Approval and Apply for Entry Permit (If Outside UAE)
If you are:
Inside UAE:
You receive approval and proceed directly to the visa issuance stage.
Outside UAE:
You will receive a 6-month multiple-entry entry permit, allowing you to enter the UAE and complete your medical check and Emirates ID process.
This step is essential for smooth processing.
Step 6: Medical Test
Every golden visa applicant must pass a standard UAE medical fitness test. This includes:
- Chest X-ray
- Blood test
Results generally come within 24–48 hours.
A “fit” result is required to proceed.
Step 7: Emirates ID Biometrics
For first-time applicants:
- Visit an approved ICP biometric center
- Provide fingerprints and facial biometrics
- Submit ID application
Existing Emirates ID holders may skip biometrics if data is already updated.
Your Emirates ID will state “Golden Residency” once issued.
Step 8: Visa Stamping (Residency Issuance)
After completing medicals and Emirates ID procedures, your residency visa will be issued and stamped digitally on the UAE immigration system.
Physical visa stickers are no longer mandatory in many emirates.
You will receive:
- Visa approval PDF
- Emirates ID card (valid 5 or 10 years)
Congratulations you are now an official UAE Golden Visa holder!
Golden Visa Process in Dubai: Special Features
Dubai has a highly streamlined process due to its dedicated systems and efficient government portals. Here’s what makes the golden visa process in Dubai smoother:
Dubai Highlights:
- Fast-track nomination system
- GDRFA Dubai’s 24/7 smart platform
- Priority processing for high-profile applicants
- Partnerships with major developers (Emaar, DAMAC, Nakheel)
- VIP centers for premium service
Expats in Dubai typically experience the fastest processing times.
Common Reasons for Golden Visa Rejection
While the process is straightforward, applications may be rejected due to:
- Incomplete or unclear documents
- Salary or investment not meeting minimum criteria
- Mismatched category selection
- Inaccurate information or expired documents
- Failure in medical test
Ensuring accuracy in each step is crucial.
How Long Does the Golden Visa Procedure Take?
On average:
- Nomination approval: 1–7 days
- Application processing: 2–10 days
- Medical + biometrics: 1–2 days
- Visa issuance: 2–5 days
Total estimated time: 7 to 20 working days
However, high-volume categories like real estate investors may receive approvals faster.
Cost of the UAE Golden Visa
Costs vary slightly by emirate and category but typically include:
- Application fees
- Emirates ID fees
- Medical test fees
- Service charges
Estimated total cost: AED 3,000–6,000 per applicant.
Property investors may have additional developer charges depending on project and documentation.
Benefits of Getting the UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa is more than just a residency permit it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Key Benefits:
- Long-term residency (5 or 10 years)
- No local sponsor required
- 100% business ownership
- Unlimited time outside UAE
- Sponsor spouse and children easily
- Sponsorship of domestic workers
- Stability and security for families
- Access to top-tier healthcare, education, and investment opportunities
It provides peace of mind for expats looking for long-term settlement.
Your Complete Guide to the Golden Visa Procedure UAE
The golden visa procedure UAE is structured, transparent, and designed to welcome global talent and investors. Whether you are applying through investment, skills, entrepreneurship, or academic excellence, the UAE offers one of the most efficient long-term residency programs in the world.
By following the step-by-step golden visa process Dubai, preparing your documents carefully, and selecting the correct eligibility category, you can secure your golden residency without complications.
