Golden Visa Dubai UAE : Long-Term Residency Guide

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has established itself as a global hub for business, tourism, and innovation. As part of its ongoing efforts to attract and retain exceptional talent and investment, the UAE introduced the Golden Visa Dubai. This long-term residency visa offers a plethora of benefits to investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students, and other exceptional talents. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about the Golden Visa Dubai, including its benefits, requirements, and the application process.

What is the UAE’s Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa in the UAE offers foreign talents the opportunity for long-term residency, enabling them to live, work, or study in the country while enjoying unique privileges. This initiative is part of the UAE's broader strategy to attract and retain talent, foster economic growth, and enhance its position as a global leader in various sectors. The Dubai Golden Visa stands out for its flexibility and myriad benefits, making it immensely desirable for individuals seeking residency opportunities.

Benefits of the Golden Visa Dubai

The Golden Visa Dubai offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive residency option. Here are a few of the main advantages:

1. Multiple Entry Visa: The Golden Visa allows for an entry visa for six months with multiple entries to proceed with residence issuance. This adaptability proves especially advantageous for individuals requiring frequent travel.

2. Long-Term Residency: The visa provides a renewable residence permit valid for either 5 or 10 years, ensuring prolonged stability for visa holders.

3. No Sponsor Needed: One of the most significant advantages is the privilege of not needing a sponsor, which offers greater independence and security.

4. Extended Stay: Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for more than six months without losing their residency status. This is a significant benefit for those with global commitments.

5. Family Sponsorship: The ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children of any age, is a considerable advantage, allowing families to stay together.

6. Domestic Helpers: Golden Visa holders can sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers, which can significantly ease the burden of household management.

7. Security for Family Members: In case the primary Golden Visa holder passes away, family members can stay in the UAE until the end of their permit duration, providing a sense of security and stability.

Requirements for the Golden Visa Dubai

The requirements for the Golden Visa Dubai vary depending on the category under which you are applying. Here are the main categories and their specific requirements:

Investors in Public Investments

Investors play a crucial role in the UAE’s economy, and the Golden Visa is designed to attract more foreign investment. Here are the requirements for investors:

• Investment Fund: You must have a deposit of AED 2 million in an accredited UAE investment fund.
• Commercial License: Alternatively, you can hold a valid commercial or industrial license with a memorandum of association stating a capital of at least AED 2 million.
• Tax Payment: You must pay AED 250,000 annually to the government.

Real Estate Investors

The real estate sector is a significant part of the UAE's economy. Here are the requirements for real estate investors:

• Property Ownership: You must own one or more properties worth at least AED 2 million.
• Loan Purchase: The property can be purchased with a loan from specified local banks.

Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs are vital for innovation and economic growth. Here are the requirements for entrepreneurs:

• Economic Project: You must own an economic project of a technical or future nature valued at least AED 500,000.
• Approval Letters: You need approval letters from an auditor, local authorities, and an accredited business incubator.

Outstanding Specialized Talents

The UAE seeks to attract top talents in various fields. This category includes doctors, scientists, creative individuals in culture and art, inventors, executives, specialists in scientific fields, athletes, and doctoral degree holders. Here are some specific requirements:

• Doctors and Scientists: An approval letter from the UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention or a letter of recommendation from the Emirates Council of Scientists.
• Inventors: A recommendation letter from the Ministry of Economy stating that your patent adds value to the country's economy.
• Creative People: An approval letter from the relevant department of culture and arts in the respective emirate.

Outstanding Students

Education is a priority in the UAE, and outstanding students can also benefit from the Golden Visa. Here are the requirements:

• High School Students: National-level toppers with a minimum grade of 95% can be granted a Golden Visa for 5 years.
• University Students: Outstanding students from A or B class universities with a high cumulative GPA and recent graduation can be granted a Golden Visa for up to 10 years.

 Humanitarian Pioneer 

Volunteering in the UAE can also make you eligible for the prestigious Golden Visa, provided you meet certain criteria outlined by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). Here are the specific eligibility requirements:

• Members of International and Regional Organizations: You must have been a member or a distinguished worker in these organizations for at least five years.
• Members of Public Benefit Associations and Institutions: Similarly, being a member or a distinguished worker in these organizations for a minimum of five years is required.
• Recipients of Appreciation Awards: If you have received awards from local, regional, or international institutions specializing in humanitarian work, you qualify.
• Distinguished Volunteers: You need to have volunteered in humanitarian work for at least five years or completed a minimum of 500 volunteer hours.
• Financial Supporters: Those who have financially supported humanitarian work with a contribution of no less than AED 2,000,000 or its equivalent are also eligible. rReference taken from khaleejtimes.

How to Apply for Golden Visa UAE?

Applying for the Golden Visa Dubai is streamlined through the 'One touch' Golden Visa service, which simplifies the application and renewal processes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

1. Check Eligibility: Visit the ICP website to check your eligibility for the Golden Visa Dubai.

2. Submit Application: Apply through the ICP website or the ICP App available on Google Play and App Store. Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready, such as investment fund letters, property ownership documents, and recommendation letters.

3. Provide Documentation: Depending on your category, submit the required documents. This may include financial statements, property documents, letters of recommendation, and other relevant certifications.

4. Await Approval: Once your application is processed, you will receive approval and further instructions to complete the residency procedures. The 'One touch' Golden Visa service will assist you with the issuance of other visas, regularization of status, and the issuance and renewal of residency and identity documents.

How Our Firm Can Help with Golden Visa Services

Our firm specializes in providing comprehensive support throughout the Golden Visa application process. We offer personalized guidance to ensure you meet all requirements, assist with the preparation and submission of necessary documents, and streamline the entire process to secure your Golden Visa Dubai. With our expertise and dedicated service, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the application and enjoy the numerous benefits of long-term residency in the UAE. Let Plan My Firm  help you take the next step towards a prosperous future in Dubai.