Exhaustive guide to who qualifies: investor categories, professional categories, special talents, and more.
The UAE Golden Visa is among the country’s most ambitious initiatives in attracting global talent, entrepreneurs, and investors. The 10-year long-term stay without a need for a local sponsor is the only factor that makes it a golden opportunity for people who dream to build their careers and lives in the Emirates.
Is there any moment in time that you have been curious to know whether you meet the requirements for the UAE Golden Visa? This complete guide goes over every possible category, including investors, professionals, scientists, creatives, and outstanding students.
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term visa that allows foreign individuals to reside, work, and study in the UAE while enjoying benefits like self-sponsorship, family residency, and simplified business operations.
The project is a part of the UAE’s vision to transform into a global center for innovation, investment, and excellence in the human resource domain.
General Eligibility Requirements
Before diving into specific categories, every applicant must meet a few general conditions:
- Clean background: Applicants must not have a criminal record.
- Valid passport: Usually with at least six months’ validity.
- Health insurance: Required for the main applicant and dependents.
- Medical fitness: Must pass the UAE’s medical examination.
- Proof of financial stability: Salary, business ownership, or investment documents are mandatory depending on the visa type.
- Authentic documentation: Degrees, business licenses, and certificates must be attested and translated where applicable.
Investor Categories Eligibility
1. Real Estate Investment
Property investors can qualify if they own real estate worth at least AED 2 million.
- Properties can be mortgaged or off-plan if part of an approved project.
- The property must be retained for the visa’s duration.
- Applicants must present the title deed and proof of ownership.
2. Investment Funds or Bank Deposits
Investors who deposit AED 2 million or more in a UAE-approved fund or bank may qualify.
- The investment must remain for a minimum term (often several years).
- Proof of deposit and bank confirmation is required.
3. Business or Company Ownership
Shareholders and business owners can apply if they:
- Own shares in a UAE-registered business worth AED 2 million or more, or
- Pay AED 250,000 or more annually in corporate tax.
They must provide valid business licenses, audited financials, and proof of ongoing operations.
Entrepreneur or Startup Category
Entrepreneurs and startup founders are eligible if they meet one of the following:
- Own or partner in a UAE-registered SME generating at least AED 1 million in annual revenue.
- Previously founded and successfully exited a project worth AED 7 million or more.
- Hold endorsement from an approved UAE business incubator or local authority.
Applicants must also show a business plan, valid trade license, and financial records.
Professional and Skilled Worker Eligibility
Professionals form one of the most sought-after categories under the Golden Visa. To qualify:
- Minimum monthly salary: AED 30,000.
- Valid employment contract in the UAE under an eligible occupation (doctors, engineers, IT experts, legal advisors, educators, etc.).
- Academic qualification: Bachelor’s degree or higher in a specialized field.
- Professional licensing: Required for regulated sectors like healthcare or law.
In Abu Dhabi, professionals with high academic and research performance (e.g., high H-index or global rankings) may receive special consideration under the “Specialists” track.
Special Talents, Scientists, and Innovators
The UAE extends the Golden Visa to individuals who have made notable contributions in science, culture, and humanitarian work.
Scientists & Researchers
- Must hold a PhD or Master’s degree in disciplines such as life sciences, engineering, or technology.
- Require endorsement from the Emirates Scientists Council or Abu Dhabi Office for Research & Development.
- Consideration given to H-index, citations, and published work.
Creatives, Artists, and Athletes
- Recognized artists, cultural contributors, and athletes endorsed by relevant UAE cultural or sports authorities can qualify.
- Applicants must show a portfolio, awards, or global recognition.
Humanitarian and Frontline Workers
Professionals with 15+ years of service in healthcare, humanitarian missions, or public service may also apply under the expanded 2025 eligibility framework.
Outstanding Students and Academic Graduates
The Golden Visa is open to exceptional academic achievers, encouraging them to build their careers in the UAE.
High School Students
- UAE-based students who achieve 95% or higher in final exams are eligible for a 5-year Golden Visa.
University Graduates
- Graduates from UAE universities with a GPA of 3.5 or above qualify for a 10-year visa.
- Graduates from top 100 global universities (as per recognized international rankings) are also eligible if they finished within the past two years.
Other Expanding Categories
Recent updates have broadened eligibility to include:
- Healthcare professionals and nurses with over 15 years of service.
- National-level achievers, award winners, and distinguished personalities.
- Nomination-based applications via authorized UAE agencies in certain cases.
These expansions reflect the UAE’s evolving vision to retain long-term talent and leadership across multiple sectors.
Duration, Renewal, and Benefits
- Duration: Typically 5 or 10 years depending on category.
- Renewal: Requires continued compliance with eligibility conditions.
- Residency flexibility: Holders can stay outside the UAE for extended periods without losing residency.
- Family sponsorship: Includes spouse, children, and in some cases, parents.
- Business ownership: Full business operation rights without the need for a local sponsor.
Application Process (Brief)
- Determine your eligibility category.
- Get an endorsement (if applicable).
- Prepare and attest all documents.
- Apply online via ICP or GDRFA portals.
- Pay the required fees.
- Complete medical and biometric steps.
- Receive your residency visa and Emirates ID.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the UAE Golden Visa?
Investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, researchers, creatives, and top students can qualify based on income, achievements, or investment value.
What is the minimum investment required?
AED 2 million in property or investment funds, depending on the route.
Do professionals need a minimum salary?
Yes. Professionals must earn at least AED 30,000 per month and hold a recognized degree.
Can I sponsor my family?
Yes. Holders can sponsor their spouse, children, and domestic staff.
Do I need to stay in the UAE to maintain my visa?
No. You can live abroad without losing your Golden Visa status.
How long does the visa last?
Typically 5 or 10 years, depending on your category, with renewals available.
Conclusion
The UAE Golden Visa provides a chance for a long-term residency at the beautiful Emirates for people who invest, work and for the people who are the biggest part of the society and their contribution to the economic growth of the country. It is possible to meet the eligibility criteria and thus open the doors to a secure life in one of the world-class economies by making an investment on real estate or setting up a business in the UAE or showing the skills that are not normal do.
For more accurate details about these requirements and the latest updates, you should always check your eligibility on official UAE government portals before making the application.