The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor. It also grants them 100% ownership of their businesses on the UAE mainland. This initiative was launched in 2019 by the UAE government to foster economic growth and retain exceptional talent.
Golden visas are typically issued for 5 or 10 years and are automatically renewable upon expiry if eligibility criteria continue to be met.
Key Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
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Long-Term Residency: 5 or 10 years of renewable residency.
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No Local Sponsor Required: Full independence to live and work in the UAE.
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100% Business Ownership: Ability to own businesses in the UAE mainland without a local partner.
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Family Sponsorship: Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children (regardless of age), and even domestic staff.
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Stay Outside UAE Without Visa Cancellation: Holders can stay outside the UAE for extended periods without their visa becoming void.
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Pathway to Stability: Offers security and stability for expatriates planning long-term stays.
Who Can Apply for the Golden Visa?
The UAE government has outlined several categories of individuals who can qualify for the Golden Visa. These include:
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Investors – Real estate investors and business investors who meet certain financial thresholds.
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Entrepreneurs – Individuals who own or co-found successful startups or have entrepreneurial experience.
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Specialized Professionals – Doctors, scientists, engineers, and IT specialists in high-demand fields.
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Outstanding Students and Graduates – High-performing students from UAE schools or top global universities.
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Skilled Workers – Individuals with specialized skills earning a high monthly salary.
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Humanitarian Pioneers and Creatives – Artists, authors, and those who have contributed significantly to culture or humanitarian work.