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Golden Visa New Requirements: Everything You Need to Know

  • Mar 11, 2025

Introduction

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that allows foreign professionals, investors, and skilled individuals to live, work, or study in the UAE for an extended period. This visa was introduced to attract talented individuals and investors who can contribute to the country's economic growth. Over the years, the UAE government has updated the requirements to make it more accessible to a wider range of applicants. 

In this article, we will discuss the latest Golden Visa new requirements, who can apply, benefits, application process, and other essential details.

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

The Golden Visa is a special type of long-term residency visa introduced in 2019 by the UAE government. It offers a 5-year or 10-year renewable residency to eligible individuals, including investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, outstanding students, and exceptional talents in various fields. Unlike regular residence visas, the Golden Visa does not require a UAE national sponsor, making it an attractive option for expatriates.

Who Can Apply for the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE has expanded the eligibility criteria for applying for a Golden Visa. The following categories of individuals can apply:

  1. Investors in Public Investments
  • Individuals who invest at least AED 2 million in the UAE can apply.
  • The investment must be in a UAE-approved investment fund.
  • If the investment is in real estate, it must be free of loans, or the applicant should pay at least 50% of the property value.
  1. Entrepreneurs
  • Owners of startups or business projects with a minimum capital of AED 500,000.
  • Must have approval from a UAE-accredited business incubator or relevant government authority.
  1. Skilled Professionals
  • Individuals working in sectors like healthcare, science, engineering, IT, education, and business.
  • Must hold a valid UAE employment contract.
  • Should hold at least a bachelor's degree.
  • Equivalcency certificate 
  • University Transcript 
  • 2 year experience in the same company 
  • Monthly Basic salary must be at least AED 30,000.
  1. Exceptional Talents
  • Individuals with outstanding abilities in culture, arts, sports, digital technology, innovation, and research.
  • Requires approval from relevant UAE government authorities.
  1. Outstanding Students and Graduates
  • High school students with top scores (95% or above in public or private secondary schools).
  • University graduates from top-ranked universities with a GPA of 3.8 or higher.
  • Must receive a recommendation from the Ministry of Education.
  1. Doctors and Scientists
  • Must hold a PhD or Master's degree in a relevant field.
  • Need approval from the Emirates Scientists Council or UAE health authorities.
  1. Humanitarian Pioneers
  • Individuals involved in charitable, humanitarian, and voluntary work.
  • Must have received awards or recognition for their contributions.
  1. Frontline Heroes
  • Doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals who played a key role during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Must be nominated by the relevant UAE health authorities.

New Requirements for the UAE Golden Visa

The UAE government has made several updates to the Golden Visa requirements to attract a larger pool of talented individuals. Below are the latest updates:

1. Lower Investment Requirement

  • Previously, property investors needed to purchase a AED 2 million property. Now, they can apply with an investment of AED 2 million.
  • Investors can now qualify if their property is under a mortgage, as long as at least 50% of the property value is paid.

2. More Flexibility for Skilled Professionals

  • The monthly salary requirement was previously AED 50,000, but it has now been reduced to AED 30,000.
  • More professionals from different sectors can now apply.

3. Inclusion of More Categories

  • The Golden Visa now includes humanitarian pioneers, frontline heroes, and individuals with exceptional talent.
  • This update allows more people to qualify, making it easier for professionals and volunteers who contribute to society to get long-term residency.

4. No Maximum Stay Outside UAE

  • Previously, Golden Visa holders had to stay in the UAE for at least six months continuously to maintain their visa.
  • Now, holders can stay outside the UAE for any duration without affecting their residency status.

5. Extended Family Sponsorship

  • Golden Visa holders can now sponsor spouses, children (regardless of age), and domestic workers.
  • Parents can also be sponsored for a 10-year visa, provided certain conditions are met.

6. Automatic Renewal

  • The Golden Visa is now automatically renewed, making it easier for residents to continue their stay in the UAE.

How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa

Applying for the UAE Golden Visa involves a few steps:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

  • Determine if you meet the updated requirements under one of the eligible categories.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

  • Passport copy
  • UAE residence visa (if applicable)
  • Emirates ID
  • Proof of investment, employment, or academic excellence
  • Salary certificate (for skilled professionals)
  • Property ownership documents (for investors)

Step 3: Submit Application

  • Apply through the UAE Government’s online portal, ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship), or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs).
  • Business owners and entrepreneurs can apply through the Dubai Future Foundation or relevant free zone authorities.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

  • The approval process takes 30 to 60 days.
  • Once approved, you will receive an entry permit (if outside UAE) or your residency status will be updated (if already in UAE).

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

The Golden Visa offers numerous benefits, making it a highly attractive option for expatriates:

  1. Long-Term Residency – A 10-year visa with automatic renewal.
  2. No Need for a Local Sponsor – You do not need a UAE national sponsor.
  3. 100% Business Ownership – Investors can fully own their businesses.
  4. Family Sponsorship – Sponsor your family, including your spouse and children.
  5. No Maximum Stay Limit Outside UAE – Stay outside the UAE for extended periods.
  6. Access to UAE Banking and Services – Open bank accounts, get a driver’s license, and access healthcare.
  7. Priority in Government and Healthcare Services – Enjoy fast-track services.

Conclusion

The Golden Visa new requirements have made it easier for investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and talented individuals to apply for long-term residency in the UAE. With lower financial requirements, increased flexibility, and added benefits, the UAE Golden Visa is now more accessible than ever before. If you meet the criteria, applying for this visa could be a great step towards securing a stable future in the UAE.

If you are interested in applying for the Golden Visa, ensure you check the latest requirements and submit a complete application to avoid delays. The UAE continues to welcome skilled professionals and investors, making it one of the best destinations for long-term residency.

For expert assistance with your Golden Visa application, contact Embiz today and get professional guidance on every step of the process.