In recent years, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a sought-after destination for investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals looking for new opportunities and a high standard of living. One of the UAE’s key attractions is the Golden Visa program, which allows eligible applicants to live, work, and invest in the country for an extended period.
The Visa program allows foreign individuals and their families to obtain long-term residency in the United Arab Emirates. A Golden Visa provides a range of benefits to those who qualify, such as a renewable residency permit, access to employment, and an extended visa duration. This article will delve into how to apply for a Golden Visa in the UAE.
What is the Golden Visa UAE?
The Golden Visa UAE program allows foreign individuals and their families to obtain long-term residency in the United Arab Emirates. It is designed to attract foreign investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals to contribute to the country’s economic growth.
This visa offers a range of benefits, including the ability to live and work in the UAE, access to healthcare and education services, and the option to apply for citizenship in the future. It is an excellent opportunity for those looking to establish a long-term presence in the UAE.
Who is Eligible for the Golden Visa?
1. Investors:
Individuals who invest significantly in UAE-based businesses can qualify for the visa. Investments can be real estate, business ownership, or capital investments.
2. Entrepreneurs:
Business owners with a track record of success and innovative business plans can also apply for the visa. This is designed to encourage the growth of new enterprises and stimulate economic activity.
3. Specialized Talents and Professionals:
Individuals with exceptional skills, talents, and achievements in science, arts, culture, sports, and academia can also be eligible for the visa.
4. Researchers and Scientists:
Those who have contributed significantly to scientific advancements and research can apply for a visa to continue their work in the UAE.
5. Outstanding Students:
Exceptional students with a proven track record of academic excellence can be nominated by their educational institutions for the visa.
Individuals with valid long-term visas, such as a 10-year residence visa. The eligibility requirements may vary depending on the specific category, so you must consult official guidelines and seek professional advice to determine your eligibility.
How to Apply for the Golden Visa UAE
Non-residents eligible to apply for the golden card fall into five categories. They consist of:
- Chief Executives
- Financiers
- Scientists
- Deserving Students
- Entrepreneurs
The government of the United Arab Emirates has additional criteria. All candidates who wish to apply for this Golden Visa from the UAE must meet these prerequisites.
Investors:
10 years as a commercial investor in an investment fund
- (Previous year’s financial report) Company auditor
- The partner’s list (commercial-industrial) and a copy of the license
- Picture of a home
- Account statement for the past three months of the company. The VAT Return
Note:
- Other license applications are not accepted; only licenses issued by the Emirate of Dubai (exclusively for commercial or industrial purposes) are accepted.
- A (To Whom It May Concern Certificate from the applicable free zone authorities is necessary if the license is in a free zone or special development zone.) 10 years as an investor (deposit) in an investment fund.
10 years as an investor (deposit) in an investment fund
- A letter from the bank containing the deposit in Arabic must state that it will be withdrawn in two years have passed. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai will be notified if it is.
- Picture of a home
- Rent Agreement
- Occupation at the time of application: not stated
Investor in a tax-returning investment fund for ten years
- The Federal Tax Authority’s letter
- A duplicate of the partner’s list and the license
- Picture of a home
- Occupation at the time of application: not state
- The given field is an investor
Those with specialized skills and researchers in several branches of knowledge
Doctors:
- Arabic professional license issued by the (Health Authority)
- Health Ministry; Dubai Healthcare City)
- A duplicate of the Ministry of Human Resources Labor card, and
- Emiratization or contract work that has been authorized by one of the organizations under The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs and free zones.
- A picture of the house
- Occupation at the time of application, as shown on the license certificate
- The licensed profession that was awarded
Scientist:
- A letter from the Emirates Scientists Council or the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Academic Excellence proposing the winner of the Medal of Scientific Excellence.
- A passport photocopy
- Occupation at the time of application: not stated
Individuals that are artistically and culturally inclined:
- A letter of recommendation from the Authority on Culture and the Arts
- A passport photocopy
- Occupation at the time of application: not stated
- The occupation is granted following the recommendation letter.
Executive Directors (Chairman of the Board of Directors, General Manager, and Executive Director)
- The company’s NOC letter for the Golden Visa states that the length of service for the general manager, executive director, and president of the Board of Directors is 5 years.
- Possesses a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (as shown by a certificate from the Ministry of Education).
- A certificate stating that you make at least $50,000 per month.
- Contract for employment with the same occupation and pay.
- Personal 6-month account statement.
- Upon application, I will be a general manager and executive director.
- The board of directors chairman.
- Awarded title: executive director.
Scientists and Engineers with Specialized knowledge:
- A letter from the Ministry of Education stating that the certificate is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree or higher (if the credential is from outside the country)
- A duplicate of the house
- Employment agreement for one of the following professions
((Epidemiology Viruses, Big Data, Engineering, Artificial Intelligence Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electronics Engineering, and Software Engineering in biotechnology, genetic engineering, and electrical engineering.))
- When applying, the profession should be higher than the authorized major
- Awarded Profession: Specialisation determines the profession
Outstanding Students with Promise in the Sciences (Graduates in 2019 or Later)
- Ensure that a recommendation from the Ministry of Education is followed.
I get a text message
- A duplicate of the residency permit for the Emirate of Dubai
- A passport photocopy
- Occupation not stated on the application
- Awarded for a profession: Outstanding Student
Apply through the ICP app or website, accessible through Google Play and the App Store.
Processing Time for the UAE Golden Visa Application
1. Choose the Category:
Determine the category you qualify for based on the abovementioned eligibility criteria.
2. Gather Required Documents:
Prepare all necessary documents, including proof of investment, business plans, academic qualifications, and relevant certificates.
3. Submit Application:
Apply through the official website or authorized government agencies. The application will require personal information, background details, and the submission of supporting documents.
4. Application Review:
The UAE authorities will review your application, conduct background checks, and assess your eligibility.
5. Biometrics and Medical Examination:
Upon passing the initial review, applicants may need to undergo biometric data collection and a medical examination.
6. Approval and Payment:
You will receive an approval notification if your application is approved. At this stage, you must pay the necessary fees for the visa.
7. Issuance of Visa:
Once the fees are paid, you will receive your visa, allowing you and your family to live and work in the UAE for the specified duration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bring my family with me if I get the UAE Golden Visa?
A: Yes, the visa allows you to bring your spouse, children, and even parents to live with you in the UAE.
Q: How long is the Golden Visa UAE valid for?
A: The validity of the visa can vary depending on the category you qualify for. It can range from 5 to 10 years, offering you long-term residency in the country.
Q: Can I work in the UAE with a Golden Visa?
A: Absolutely! One of the advantages of a visa is that it grants you the right to work in the country. This opens up a world of career opportunities for you.
Q: Can I apply for citizenship with the Golden Visa UAE?
A: While the visa UAE does not automatically grant citizenship, it does offer the option to apply for citizenship in the future, providing a pathway to becoming a UAE citizen.
Q: Can I travel freely with the Golden Visa?
A: Yes, the visa allows for multiple entries and exits from the UAE, giving you the freedom to travel without restrictions.
Read Also: What is a UAE Golden Visa. We have a complete blog on it.
