Since its announcement, the UAE golden visa has created buzz among the country's expats. The Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa issued to foreign nationals to work, study, or live in the country for up to 10 years. There are various categories under which the Golden visa is issued depending on the applicant's field of expertise. This includes investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, etc. If you plan to apply for a golden visa in Dubai, here are a few things to note.
Dubai Golden Visa Advantages and Benefits
Holders of a golden visa in Dubai enjoy some exclusive benefits, some of which are listed below.
- A long-term residence visa is valid for ten years, which is also renewable.
- You can stay outside the UAE anytime without having your Visa canceled.
- Does not require a sponsor for the Visa.
- Can sponsor family members.
- Can sponsor domestic helpers.
- Family members can stay until the visa validity period ends, even if the visa holder passes away.
Golden Visa UAE Eligibility and Requirements
- Dubai Golden visa requirements may vary according to the category you are applying for. The detailed list is given below.
- Dubai Golden Visa for Investors in Real Estate: Investing AED 2 million in the UAE's property market can qualify real estate investors for the Golden Visa
- Dubai Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs who own small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) registered in the UAE with annual revenues of AED 1 million or more are eligible for the Golden Visa. This also includes startup investors.
- Dubai Golden Visa for Exceptional Talents: The Dubai Golden Visa application is open to individuals with exceptional talents in diverse fields such as art, culture, sports, digital technology, medicine, law, and other areas of expertise.
- Dubai Golden Visa for Scientists: Scientists and researchers who meet specific criteria to apply for the Dubai Golden Visa.
The Golden Visa Dubai requirements for scientists are mentioned below:
- ✦ Master's or PhD degree from a top global university in engineering, technology, life sciences, or natural sciences
- ✦ Recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council.
- Dubai Golden Visa for Professionals: The UAE golden visa requirements for skilled professionals are as follows.
- ✦ They should hold a valid employment contract within the UAE.
- ✦ Their occupation must be ranked as level one or two by the Ministry of Human Resources Emiratisation.
- ✦ The monthly earnings should not be less than AED 30,000.
- Dubai Golden Visa for Students: Students with exceptional academic achievements in UAE secondary schools or universities can also qualify for the 10-year Visa or the Golden Visa scheme.
- Dubai Golden Visa for Humanitarian Pioneers: Humanitarian pioneers, including distinguished members of renowned international and regional organizations, notable figures from public benefit organizations who have received humanitarian recognition awards, and well-known humanitarian volunteers and supporters, can now apply for a golden UAE visa online.
- Dubai Golden Visa for Doctors and Nurses: Recognizing their efforts and sacrifices, the UAE has provided long-term residency to doctors and nurses who serve as the first line of defense. Frontline heroes who have shown exceptional dedication during crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, are also considered for the Golden Visa.
Where To Apply for a Golden Visa in Dubai
You can apply for a golden visa in UAE through two channels. They are mentioned below:
- Golden Visa UAE Application through ICP Smart Services: Those interested in applying for a golden visa in Dubai can do so online through the ICP Smart Services portal. Applicants must submit the required documents and be willing to relocate to the UAE.
- Golden Visa UAE Application through GDRFA: You can also apply for a Golden Visa through the GDRFA website. Follow these steps to apply for an online Golden Dubai visa.
- ✦ Go to the GDRFA Dubai website.
- ✦ Select the Golden Visa
- ✦ Fill out the visa application form.
- ✦ Attach the necessary documents and pay the fees.
- ✦ Apply.
How Much Does a Dubai Golden Visa Cost?
For individuals applying within the UAE, the golden visa price is between Dh2800 and Dh3800; for individuals applying outside the country, the Dubai golden visa price is Dh1000. They should also pay an additional Dh1000 for medical examination and Emirates ID processing. Valid health insurance is also required, and the price may vary.
What Is The Difference Between A Dubai Golden Visa And a Dubai Tourist Visa?
The Dubai tourist visa is a short-term visa that allows individuals to enter the UAE for a limited period. The primary purpose of the visit is tourism, business visits, or short-term work assignments. You can apply for a Dubai tourist visa through an online visa portal like "OnlyTourism" services. Some of the available visit visa options are as follows.
- The UAE offers a 14-day Dubai visa for a short trip to the country. This visa is ideal for tourists who want to stay briefly.
- You can apply for a 30-day Dubai visa to stay longer. This single-entry Visa might be suitable for attending meetings, conferences, or visiting family members.
- The 60-day Dubai visa offers a longer stay of up to two months in the country, making it an excellent option for work or leisure.
The UAE golden visa is a long-term visa that serves as a long-term residency permit in the country. It grants residency in the UAE for up to 10 years. This Visa is mainly granted to investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, and talented individuals in various fields. You can apply for a golden Dubai visa online through the GDRFA website.
Conclusion
The Dubai golden visa process is straightforward and can be completed online through the relevant channels. As long as you meet the necessary Dubai Golden Visa eligibility criteria and provide the required information and documentation, you can obtain a Golden Visa and take advantage of the many benefits of long-term residency in the UAE.
The UAE Golden Visa will undoubtedly provide a sense of belonging to the vast expat community in the country, many of whom have lived and worked in the UAE for a significant portion of their lives.