Long-term residency without a local sponsor — who qualifies and what it allows.
What the Golden Visa offers
The Golden Visa is a long-term, renewable UAE residence permit — typically ten years — that does not depend on an employer or a company sponsor. Holders can sponsor family members and are not subject to the usual rule that residency lapses after six months outside the country.
Common qualifying routes
Categories are defined by the federal authorities and include:
- Real estate investors holding property worth AED 2 million or more
- Investors and entrepreneurs meeting capital or project-value thresholds
- Specialised professionals and executives meeting salary and qualification criteria
- Outstanding students, scientists and people of recognised talent
Before you apply
Eligibility turns on documents: title deeds, audited accounts, salary certificates and attested qualifications. Have them reviewed first. Criteria are updated from time to time, so confirm current requirements with your advisor before committing to an investment on the strength of a visa.
This article is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change; please confirm your position with an advisor before acting.
