How to Obtain the UAE Golden Visa in 2024?

The UAE Golden Visa has become a sought-after option for expatriates aiming for long-term residency since its introduction in 2019. With its broadened categories and eligibility criteria, the Golden Visa enhances the UAE’s appeal as a leading global business hub. Here’s a detailed guide on how to obtain a UAE Golden Visa, allowing you to live, work, or study in the Emirates for an extended period.

What is a UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa valid for up to ten years. This initiative aims to attract significant investments and highly skilled professionals to the UAE. The visa offers numerous benefits, including access to world-class healthcare and education, and the ability to sponsor family members.

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

Holders of the UAE Golden Visa enjoy several exclusive benefits:

• Multiple-entry visa: Valid for six months, leading to the issuance of a residence permit.
• Long-term validity: Five or ten-year visa that can be renewed.
• Self-sponsorship: No need for a local sponsor.
• Extended stay outside the UAE: The visa remains valid even if you stay outside the UAE for over six months.
• Family sponsorship: Sponsor parents for a 10-year residency without additional deposits.
• Unlimited domestic helpers: Sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers.
• Family protection: Family members can stay in the UAE until the end of the permit duration if the visa holder passes away.

UAE Golden Visa Requirements

The Golden Visa program has various categories, each with specific requirements:

For Religious Figures

• Eligibility: Mosque imams, preachers, muezzins, muftis, and religious researchers with at least 20 years of service in the UAE.
• Recognition: Significant contributions to religious education and guidance.

For Real Estate Investors

• Property investment: Purchase property worth at least AED 2 million.
• Documentation: Real estate registration documents from the relevant Emirate authorities.

For Public Investors

• Investment: Deposit a minimum of AED 2 million in a UAE-accredited investment fund.
• Licensing: Hold a valid commercial or industrial license with investor capital of at least AED 2 million.
• Annual payments: Minimum of AED 250,000 to the government.
• Other requirements: Proof of medical insurance and evidence that the capital is not loan-financed.

For Entrepreneurs and Start-Up Owners

• Revenue criteria: SMEs with annual revenues of AED 1 million or founders of projects sold for at least AED 7 million.
• Approvals: Necessary approvals from the Ministry of Economy or local authorities.

For Executives

• Qualifications: Accredited university degree, minimum five years of experience in the same position.
• Salary: Monthly income of at least AED 50,000.
• Employment: Valid employment contract.

For Exceptional Talents

• Fields: Art, culture, sports, medicine, law, etc.
• Recognition: Federal or local government endorsement of exceptional talent.

For Specialists in Science and Engineering

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in fields like epidemiology, AI, big data, and various engineering disciplines.
• Employment: Valid employment contract in the UAE.

For Scientists

• Qualifications: Ph.D. or Master’s degree from top universities in engineering, technology, life sciences, or natural sciences.
• Recommendation: Endorsement from the Emirates Scientists Council or similar body.

For Doctors and Nurses

• Recognition: Contributions in crisis management, like the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Approval: Letter from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention.

For Skilled Professionals

• Employment: Valid UAE employment contract.
• Classification: Job classified under level one or two by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
• Salary: Minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree.

For Exceptional Coders

• Expertise: Top talent in coding and programming.
• Employers: Leading tech companies or graduates in software engineering, IT, AI, and data science.

For Students

• Performance: Top-performing students in UAE schools and universities.
• Recommendations: High grades and endorsements from educational institutions.

For Humanitarian Pioneers

• Contributions: Significant contributions to humanitarian work.
• Recognition: Employees of international/regional organizations and public interest associations, or those with appreciation awards.

Expanded Categories for Abu Dhabi

• Eligibility: Senior scholars, clerics, and specialists in various fields.
• Requirements: Employment in the UAE, classified positions by MoHRE, minimum salary of AED 30,000, and a valid practicing license if needed.

How to Apply for a Golden Visa

Eligible applicants can apply through the General Directorate of Residence and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) website or the ICP Smart Services platform. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Open the GDRFA or ICP Smart Services Platform

• Application: Apply online via GDRFA or ICP Smart Services.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

• Information: Provide accurate and comprehensive personal information.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

• Documentation: Submit documents based on your application category.

Step 4: Pay the Required Fees

• Cost: The six-month entry permit costs AED 1,250, including various fees.

Step 5: Submit the Application

• Review: Ensure all information is accurate before submission.

Obtaining a UAE Golden Visa offers an array of benefits and opportunities. By following the outlined steps and meeting the specific requirements, you can secure a long-term residence visa and enjoy all the advantages that come with living and working in the UAE.