Main Zone guide

UAE Golden Visa: who qualifies and how to apply

Visas2 min readLast updated 5 Oct 2026

The UAE Golden Visa gives long term residency without a local sponsor. It lets you live, work and invest in the UAE, sponsor your family and spend long periods abroad without losing your residency.

Main Golden Visa categories

The thresholds below are those commonly applied at the time of writing. Rules are set by ICP and GDRFA Dubai and can change, so always confirm current criteria before applying.

CategoryTypical requirementValidity
Property investorProperty worth AED 2 million or more10 years
InvestorAED 2 million invested in an approved fund or UAE business10 years
Skilled professionalMonthly basic salary of AED 30,000 or more, a bachelor's degree and an eligible occupation level10 years
EntrepreneurAn approved project or a qualifying UAE business5 to 10 years
Exceptional talentRecognised achievement in science, arts, sport, technology and other fields10 years

Key benefits

  • Long term renewable residency with no sponsor
  • No minimum stay requirement to keep the visa valid
  • Sponsorship of spouse and children, including children regardless of age under current rules
  • Sponsorship of domestic staff
  • Greater stability for banking, property and long term planning

How to apply

  1. Eligibility assessment and document checklist
  2. Nomination or approval from the relevant authority, where required
  3. Entry permit or change of status
  4. Medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics
  5. Visa issuance

Can a business owner get a Golden Visa?

Yes, if the business or investment meets the current thresholds. Many founders start with a standard 2 year investor visa and move to the Golden Visa once they qualify.

UAE visa and Golden Visa services

FAQ

Property under a mortgage can qualify in many cases if its value meets the threshold. Your advisor will confirm the current rules for your property.

Yes. Spouses and children can be sponsored, subject to current rules.

Get a free consultation

Talk to the advisors who handle this every day

One call gets you a clear recommendation, a fixed quotation and a realistic timeline.

Chat with an advisor