What is UAE Golden Visa and Who is Eligible to Apply in 2025

The Dubai Golden Visa is a fantastic opportunity for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and exceptional talents to secure long-term residency in the UAE. This visa offers stability, flexibility, and a wealth of opportunities for those looking to build their future in Dubai. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know from Dubai Golden Visa requirements to the benefits and step by step application process.

What is the Dubai Golden Visa?

Introduced to attract top talent and investors, the Dubai Golden Visa provides 5- or 10-year residency options without the need for a national sponsor. Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional, or an outstanding student, this visa is designed to give you peace of mind and long-term security in the UAE.

Why Should You Get the Dubai Golden Visa?

Here are some of the biggest perks:

• Long-Term Residency: Live in the UAE for 5 or 10 years with easy renewal.
• No Local Sponsor Needed: You can stay independent without requiring a UAE national as your sponsor.
• Business and Investment Freedom: Establish and expand your business with fewer restrictions.
• Family Sponsorship: Bring your spouse, children, and dependents with you.
• Multiple Entry Benefit: Travel in and out of the UAE without any hassle.
• Access to Top Healthcare and Education: Enjoy premium medical services and world-class education for your children.

Who is Eligible? Dubai Golden Visa Requirements

To qualify for the Dubai Golden Visa, you need to meet specific Dubai Golden Visa requirements based on your category. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Investors in Public Investments

• Invest at least AED 2 million in UAE public investments.
• The investment must be retained for at least three years.
• The funds should not be sourced from a loan.

2. Real Estate Investors

• Purchase property worth at least AED 2 million.
• If mortgaged, you must have paid at least AED 2 million upfront.

3. Entrepreneurs

• Own or co-own a start up registered in the UAE.
• The start up should be classified as an SME with AED 1 million+ in annual revenue.

4. Skilled Professionals

• Work in medicine, IT, engineering, or finance.
• Hold a bachelor’s degree and earn a minimum salary of AED 30,000 per month.

5. Exceptional Talents

• This includes scientists, doctors, researchers, innovators, and artists.
• Must have official recognition from a UAE government body.

6. Outstanding Students

• University students with a GPA of 3.8 or above from a recognized institution.

How to Apply for the Dubai Golden Visa

Getting a Dubai Golden Visa is simpler than you think. Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

First, make sure you meet the Dubai Golden Visa requirements for your chosen category.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

The exact documents depend on your category, but generally, you’ll need:

• Passport copy
• UAE Visa copy (if applicable)
• Investment, employment, or qualification proof
• Bank statements
• NOC from employer (if required)

Step 3: Submit Your Application

• Apply online through GDRFA Dubai (https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae) or ICP UAE (https://icp.gov.ae).
• Alternatively, visit AMER service centers or typing centers in Dubai.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

The cost depends on your visa type:

• 5-year visa: AED 2,800 – AED 3,800
• 10-year visa: AED 3,800 – AED 4,800

Step 5: Medical Test and Biometrics

You’ll need to:

• Undergo a medical fitness test.
• Provide your biometric details.
• Apply for an Emirates ID.

Step 6: Visa Approval and Issuance

Once approved, you’ll receive your Dubai Golden Visa electronically or stamped on your passport.

How to Track a Visa Application?

Tracking a visa application depends on the country and the type of visa applied for. Here are the general steps:

1. Visit the Official Website – Go to the visa application center’s website (e.g., VFS Global, embassy website, or the immigration portal of the respective country).
2. Use the Tracking Portal – Most countries provide an online tracking tool where you can enter your application reference number and passport number.
3. Email or Call Support – If online tracking is not available, contact the visa processing center through customer support.
4. Check with the Visa Agent – If applied through an agent, they can provide updates.
5. Visit the Visa Center – Some visa processing centers allow in-person inquiries with proper documentation.

For UAE visa tracking, visit the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) website or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) website for Dubai applications.

Processing Time for UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa processing time varies based on the applicant’s profile and document verification.

• Initial Approval: 2 to 4 weeks
• Final Visa Issuance: 1 to 3 weeks after approval

The total processing time usually ranges from 3 to 7 weeks. However, fast-track options may be available for specific categories like investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals.

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa (5 or 10 years) that offers multiple benefits:

1. Long-Term Stay – Unlike regular visas, it allows holders to stay in the UAE for 5 or 10 years without needing frequent renewals.
2. No Local Sponsor Required – Applicants can live, work, or study in the UAE independently.
3. 100% Business Ownership – Entrepreneurs can own companies in the UAE without a local sponsor.
4. Family Sponsorship – Holders can sponsor spouses, children, and domestic staff (housemaids, drivers, etc.).
5. Ease of Travel – The visa facilitates travel in and out of the UAE without frequent renewals.
6. Property Investment – Golden Visa holders can buy and own property in the UAE.
7. Access to Premium Services – Some banks and financial institutions offer special privileges like priority banking services and exclusive mortgage options.
8. Job Security – Unlike standard employment visas, the Golden Visa allows professionals to stay in the UAE even without a current employer.
9. Healthcare & Education Benefits – Some categories of Golden Visa holders receive discounts or exclusive access to healthcare and educational facilities.

FAQ About Golden Visa