Five pathways to residency
Software engineers & tech talent
Senior developers, AI/ML specialists, cybersecurity experts and tech leaders with demonstrated industry impact.Requires: Minimum 5 years experience, or recognized contribution to the field
Medical professionals
Licensed physicians, surgeons, specialists and healthcare researchers contributing to public health advancement.Requires: Active medical license and specialist qualification
Scientists & researchers
Published researchers, university faculty and scientists with peer-reviewed work in recognized journals.Requires: PhD or equivalent, with published research output
Athletes & sports achievers
National and international competitors, Olympic participants and sports professionals with documented achievements.Requires: National team representation or international ranking
Creative & cultural talent
Artists, filmmakers, authors and cultural figures whose work has received international recognition or awards.Requires: Portfolio of internationally recognized work or awards
More than a visa — a foundation
No employer sponsor
Your visa is independent — work, freelance or start a business without tying your residency to an employer.
Full business ownership
Establish and own 100% of a business on the UAE mainland, with no local partner requirement.
Family sponsorship
Sponsor your spouse, children and domestic staff. Their residency is linked to yours, not to a separate employer.
Banking & investment
Open personal and business accounts, access investment platforms and build credit history in a leading financial hub.
Re-entry flexibility
The visa stays valid through extended time outside the country. The six-month re-entry rule does not apply.
The ground beneath it
Top-tier healthcare, international schooling, zero personal income tax, and a location bridging East and West.
From application to residency
The typical timeline from document preparation to receiving your Golden Visa is four to eight weeks.
Document preparation
Gather your passport, professional credentials, CV and supporting evidence. Requirements vary by category.
Eligibility assessment
Your profile is reviewed against the criteria for your category, to identify the strongest pathway.
Application submission
Submitted through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
Approval & Emirates ID
On approval you receive your entry permit. Biometrics in the UAE complete your Emirates ID.
Choose your pathway
From a free eligibility assessment to a complete application dossier with expert consultation.
Assessment
A read on whether you qualify, and under which category.
- Eligibility check
- Category identification
Dossier
The complete application pack, assembled and ready to submit.
- Eligibility check
- Category analysis
- Document checklist
- Cover letter drafts
- Free zone referrals
Dossier + counsel
The dossier, plus time with someone who has filed these before.
- Eligibility check
- Category analysis
- Document checklist
- Cover letter drafts
- Free zone referrals
- Two consultation calls
Before you apply
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is a long-term residency program introduced by the UAE government in 2019. It grants 5 or 10-year renewable visas to investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talent, researchers, outstanding students, and other exceptional individuals — allowing them to live, work, and study in the UAE without a national sponsor.
How long does the application process take?
The typical timeline is 4 to 8 weeks from document submission to visa issuance. Processing times vary by emirate and category. Applications submitted through Abu Dhabi (ICP) or Dubai (GDRFA) may have different turnaround times. Having a complete document set at the time of submission significantly reduces delays.
Can my family join me on the Golden Visa?
Yes. Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children (regardless of age), and domestic staff. Family members receive residency permits valid for the same duration as the primary visa holder. Children can remain sponsored beyond 18 years of age, unlike standard UAE visas.
What documents are typically required?
Core documents include a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), professional qualification certificates, CV/resume, and evidence supporting your category — such as publications, patents, awards, employment contracts, or salary certificates. All documents must be attested by the relevant authorities. Specific requirements vary by visa category.
Is the Golden Visa renewable?
Yes. Both 5-year and 10-year Golden Visas are renewable, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria at the time of renewal. There is no limit on the number of renewals. The renewal process is typically straightforward for visa holders who have maintained their professional activity.
Do I need to be currently employed in the UAE to apply?
No. You do not need a current UAE employer or job offer to apply for a Golden Visa. Applicants can apply from outside the UAE based on their qualifications and achievements. However, some categories (such as skilled employees) may require an active employment contract with a UAE entity meeting certain salary thresholds.
What happens if I spend long periods outside the UAE?
Unlike standard UAE residency visas — which are cancelled if the holder stays abroad for more than 6 months — the Golden Visa remains valid regardless of how long you spend outside the country. This provides significant flexibility for professionals who travel frequently or maintain commitments abroad.
Is there a minimum salary requirement?
For the skilled employee category, a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000 (approximately USD 8,200) is generally required, along with a bachelor's degree or equivalent. However, other categories — such as scientists, athletes, and investors — have different criteria that may not include a salary threshold.