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United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known for its forward-thinking policies and rapid development. In line with its vision to attract global talent and foster long-term economic growth, the UAE introduced the Golden Visa program. This visa scheme is designed to offer long-term residency to investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, researchers, outstanding students, and humanitarian pioneers. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into every aspect of the UAE Golden Visa, covering who qualifies, the types of visas available, the application procedures, required documents, and more.
Types of Golden Visas
UAE offers different types of Golden Visas based on the applicant’s profile and contributions:
10-Year Golden Visa
5-Year Golden Visa
Eligibility Criteria
1. Investors:
To qualify for the 10-year visa, investors must:
- Invest at least AED 10 million in public investments (investment funds, companies, or a mix of both).
- Ensure the investment is not loaned and retained for at least three years.
- Have a financial solvency of up to AED 10 million.
For the 5-year visa:
- Invest at least AED 5 million in real estate.
- Ensure the property is retained for at least three years.
2. Entrepreneurs:
Required entrepreneurs must:
- Own a project with a minimum capital of AED 500,000.
- Obtain approval from an accredited business incubator in the UAE.
3. Specialized Talents and Researchers:
Eligible individuals include:
- Scientists and researchers accredited by Emirates Scientists Council or holders of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence.
- Medical doctors and specialists in priority fields (e.g., virology, epidemiology).
- Professionals in the creative and cultural industries.
4. Outstanding Students:
For high school students:
- Achieve at least 95% in public or private secondary schools.
For university students:
- Graduate with a GPA of at least 3.8 from a UAE university.
5. Humanitarian Pioneers:
This category includes:
- Distinguished members of international and regional organizations.
- Outstanding volunteers and humanitarian workers with awards in humanitarian fields.
Application Procedures for UAE Golden Visa
Applying for the UAE Golden Visa involves several steps, which can be summarized as follows:
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
First step is to determine if you qualify for the Golden Visa under any of the eligible categories mentioned above. Ensure that you meet the specific criteria and have the necessary documentation to support your application.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Required documents vary depending on the category, but generally include:
- A valid passport.
- A recent passport-sized photo.
- Proof of investment or business ownership.
- Academic records (for students and graduates).
- Professional certificates and accreditation (for specialized talents).
- Approval letters from relevant UAE authorities or organizations.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Applications can be submitted through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) website, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) portal, or through authorized typing centers in the UAE.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
Application process involves paying certain fees, which may vary depending on the type of visa and the processing time. Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the fee structure before submitting your application.
Step 5: Await Approval
Processing time for the Golden Visa can vary. Applicants will be notified of their approval status via email or through the online application portal. Once approved, the applicant will receive their Golden Visa and a residency permit.
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
Offers several significant benefits, making it an attractive option for expatriates and their families:
➱ Long-Term Residency
➱ Family Sponsorship
➱ Business Opportunities
➱ Access to UAE Services
➱ Ease of Travel
➱ Tax Benefits
Conclusion
Golden Visa program is a forward-thinking initiative that aims to attract and retain global talent and investors. By offering long-term residency and various incentives, the UAE has positioned itself as a hub for innovation, business, and cultural diversity. Whether you are an investor, entrepreneur, specialized talent, outstanding student, or humanitarian pioneer, the UAE Golden Visa provides a pathway to a stable and prosperous future in one of the world’s most dynamic regions
