The UAE Golden Visa has attracted considerable attention from expatriates residing in the country. This unique visa offers an extended period of residency, allowing foreign nationals to work, study, or live in the UAE for up to 10 years.

The Golden Visa is offered in various categories, contingent on the applicant’s field of expertise. The availability of the visa is determined by the specific category that aligns with the applicant’s skills and qualifications. These categories include investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and more. If you are considering applying for a Golden Visa in Dubai,

Here are the Requirements for Each Category:

● Golden Visa for Investors in Real Estate:

To qualify, investors need to invest AED 2 million in the UAE’s property market.

● Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs:

Eligibility for the Golden Visa extends to entrepreneurs who are owners of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are duly registered in the UAE. The SME should have annual revenues of AED 1 million or more. This category also includes startup investors.

● Golden Visa for Exceptional Talents:

Individuals with exceptional talents in various fields such as art, culture, sports, digital technology, medicine, law, and other areas of expertise can apply for the Golden Visa.

● Golden Visa for Scientists:

For scientists and researchers to be eligible for the Golden Visa, they must hold a Master’s or Ph.D. degree from a recognized global university in fields such as engineering, technology, life sciences, or natural sciences. Additionally, a recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council is a requisite for the application process.

● Golden Visa for Professionals:

To qualify for the Golden Visa as skilled professionals, applicants must possess a valid employment contract in the UAE. Their occupation should be categorized as level one or two by the Ministry of Human Resources Emiratisation. Additionally, the minimum monthly income requirement for this category is AED 30,000.

● Golden Visa for Students:

Students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements in UAE secondary schools or universities are eligible to apply for the 10-year Visa or Golden Visa scheme. This opportunity allows them an extended period of residency in the UAE.

● 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 apply for the Golden UAE visa online.

● Golden Visa for Doctors and Nurses:

Doctors and nurses who have shown exceptional dedication and served as the first line of defense, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, are eligible for long-term residency under Golden Visa.

How To Apply for a Golden Visa in Dubai?

Golden Visa UAE Application through ICP Smart Services:

1. Access the ICP Smart Services portal through the official website.
2. Locate the Golden Visa application section or category.
3. Fill out the application form with accurate and complete information.
4. Prepare and gather all the necessary documents required for the application.
5. Ensure you have the required documents, such as passport copies, passport-sized photos, proof of eligibility, and any other supporting documents.
6. Scan or digitize the required documents as per the specified format and size limitations.
7. Upload the scanned documents to the ICP Smart Services portal as part of your application.
8. Express your willingness and intention to relocate to the UAE in the application form.
9. Review the completed application and attached documents for accuracy and completeness.
10. Submit the application through the ICP Smart Services portal.

Golden Visa UAE Application through GDRFA:

1. Visit the official website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
2. Locate and select the “Golden Visa” option from the available visa categories.
3. Fill out the comprehensive visa application form with accurate and complete information.
4. Ensure that you have all the necessary documents required for the application process.
5. Attach the required documents as specified in the guidelines.
6. Make the payment for the applicable visa fees as per the provided instructions.
7. Review your completed application form and attached documents to ensure accuracy.
8. Apply electronically through the designated submission process.

Difference Between a Golden Visa and a Tourist Visa

● Dubai Tourist Visa

This visa is designed for individuals visiting the UAE for a limited period for tourism, business visits, or short-term work assignments. Online visa portals such as Dubai visa services offer various visit visa options, including 30-day, and 60-day visas.

UAE Golden Visa

The Golden Visa functions as an extended residency permit, providing individuals with the opportunity to live in the UAE for a duration of up to 10 years. This exclusive visa is predominantly awarded to individuals who fall under categories such as investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, and individuals with exceptional talent in diverse fields. If you wish to apply for a Golden Dubai Visa, you can visit the official website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).