Since its inception, the UAE Golden Visa system has garnered significant attention among expatriates seeking permanent residency in the United Arab Emirates.
With broader eligibility categories, the Golden Visa is poised to solidify the UAE’s status as a global hub for business and investment. Discover everything you need to know about the Golden Visa UAE, including current requirements, advantages, the application process, and more.
What is Golden Visa UAE?
The Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa program that grants foreign talents the opportunity to reside, work, or study in the UAE for a duration of up to 10 years.
This scheme, known as the golden residency program, is open for renewal and caters to specific categories of individuals, ranging from investors to those possessing exceptional talents.
The primary aim of the Golden Visa program is to entice foreign investments and expertise to the UAE. It presents several advantages to its holders, such as the freedom to live and work within the country, access to high-quality education and healthcare services.
The ability to sponsor family members for their own residence visas. The Golden Visa has a 10-year validity, and it can be extended upon expiration.
Latest Golden Visa
As officially stated by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, graduates from recognized universities outside of the UAE now have the opportunity to obtain a renewable Golden Visa that allows them to live in the UAE for a period of 10 years. This visa eliminates the requirement for a sponsor or host and is intended to facilitate activities such as working, investing, establishing a business, or settling in the country.
Nevertheless, there are specific terms and conditions established by the authorities, including a fee of AED 350, as per the guidelines of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). These conditions must be met to be eligible for the Golden Visa.
To be eligible for the Golden Visa, applicants are required to meet the following criteria:
- Possess a passport with a minimum validity of 6 months (without the need for it to be inside the UAE).
- Have graduated from a university ranked among the top 100 in the world, according to the international classification approved by the Ministry of Education.
- Maintain a cumulative grade average of at least 3.5 for bachelor’s degree graduates.
- Graduated no more than 2 years prior to the application, and the certificate must be approved by the Ministry of Education.
According to the ICP, there are four available channels for submitting applications 24/7. These channels include:
- The UAECIP website or the smart application, where applicants can access the smart services system using either their UAE digital identity or a username. They can then input their information, attach the required documents, make the necessary service fee payments, and have their application reviewed.
- Applicants will receive a confirmation email within 48 hours.
- Additionally, applicants can visit the ICP’s Customer Happiness Centers to submit their applications once they have fulfilled all the conditions and provided all the necessary documents.
- Another option is to apply at typing offices that have been accredited by the ICP.
These multiple channels provide flexibility and accessibility for individuals interested in the Golden Visa program.