The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that offers the opportunity to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor. It is aimed at attracting and retaining talent from various sectors, including investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, researchers, and outstanding students. Here is a detailed guide on how to obtain a Golden Visa in the UAE.
Eligibility Criteria for Golden Visa
The Golden Visa is available to various categories of individuals, each with specific requirements:
- Investors
- Real Estate Investors: Must invest in a property worth at least AED 2 million.
- Public Investments: Must have a deposit or a company in the UAE with a capital investment of at least AED 10 million.
- Entrepreneurs
- Must own or be a partner in an existing or new startup registered in the UAE under the SME category.
- The company must generate an annual revenue of AED 1 million or above.
- Specialized Talents
- Doctors, Engineers, Scientists: Must be recognized by a reputable authority in their field, such as the UAE’s Ministry of Health or Ministry of Education.
- Researchers and Inventors: Must provide evidence of their significant contributions or patents.
- Outstanding Students and Graduates
- Must have achieved high scores in UAE secondary schools or universities.
- Graduates from top 100 universities worldwide are also eligible.
- Humanitarian Pioneers
- Distinguished members of international and regional organizations.
- Recipients of awards in humanitarian fields.
- Frontline Heroes
- Professionals like nurses, medical staff, and other frontline workers who have shown extraordinary effort in crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Steps to Apply for a Golden Visa
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the specific criteria for your category. Gather all necessary documents, such as investment records, academic certificates, employment contracts, and proof of achievements.
- Application Submission:
- Visit the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website.
- Register or log in to your account.
- Complete the Application Form:
- Fill out the application form with accurate personal information and details relevant to your eligibility category.
- Upload Required Documents:
- Attach all required documents, ensuring they are clear and legible. This may include investment proofs, academic qualifications, employment letters, or other relevant documents.
- Pay the Fees:
- Pay the applicable fees for the application process. The cost may vary depending on the visa type and processing time.
- Submit the Application:
- Review the application thoroughly before submitting it. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email or SMS.
- Await Approval:
- The relevant authorities will review your application. This process may take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the category and completeness of the application.
- Receive Notification:
- If approved, you will receive an email or SMS notification. You may be asked to visit the nearest ICP or GDRFA office to complete additional formalities.
- Obtain the Golden Visa:
- Upon approval, you will receive your Golden Visa, allowing you to reside in the UAE for 5 or 10 years, with the possibility of renewal.
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
- Long-Term Residency: Live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor.
- Security and Stability: Provides peace of mind with long-term residency, fostering a sense of stability and security.
- Business Continuity: Facilitates uninterrupted business operations and investment activities.
- Family Sponsorship: Holders can sponsor their family members, including spouse and children.
- Extended Stay Outside UAE: Allows the holder to stay outside the UAE for more than six months without invalidating their residency visa.
Conclusion
The UAE Golden Visa is a prestigious residency program designed to attract and retain exceptional talent and investors. By following the outlined steps and ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria, you can successfully apply for and obtain a Golden Visa, unlocking numerous benefits and opportunities in the UAE. For more information, visit the ICP or GDRFA official websites or contact their customer service for assistance.
You Can Also Check This: Types of Visas Available in the UAE
