Are you dreaming of a long-term stay in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)? The UAE Golden Visa might be your ticket to an extended residency in this dynamic country. In this article, we’ll explore who can apply for the UAE Golden Visa and help you check your eligibility. We’ve already discussed UAE Golden Visa Application Process in detail in another blog post, but we’ll also touch on the Golden Visa application process here too to give you a head start on your journey.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program introduced in 2019. It allows foreigners to live, work, and study in the UAE for an extended period. The visa can be valid for either 5 or 10 years, depending on the category you qualify for. The best part? It’s renewable, giving you the chance to make the UAE your home for many years to come.
Why Did the UAE Introduce the Golden Visa?
The UAE government created this program for several reasons. They want to:
- Keep talented people in the country
- Attract new skilled workers and professionals
- Encourage business growth and investment
- Thank long-term residents for their contributions to the UAE’s development
Now, let’s look at who can apply for this exciting opportunity.
Who Can Apply for the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE has opened the Golden Visa program to several groups of people. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories:
- Investors
If you have money to invest in the UAE, you might qualify for a Golden Visa. There are two main types of investment visas:
- 10-year visa: You need to invest at least 10 million dirhams (about $2.7 million) in a UAE investment fund or company.
- 5-year visa: The investment requirement is 5 million dirhams (about $1.36 million).
Remember, you need to keep your investment for at least three years. Also, the money must be your own, not borrowed. If you’re investing in real estate, the property must be held for at least three years, and it should not be mortgaged.
- Entrepreneurs
Do you have a great business idea? The UAE wants to support you! To qualify as an entrepreneur, you need:
- A project in the UAE worth at least 500,000 dirhams (about $136,000)
- Approval from a certified business incubator in the UAE
Additionally, entrepreneurs who have had a successful exit from a startup might also be eligible, especially if the company was sold for a significant amount.
- Special Talents and Professionals
The UAE is looking for bright minds in various fields. You might qualify if you’re:
- A doctor with at least 20 years of experience
- A scientist with significant contributions to your field
- A cultural or art specialist approved by the UAE Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development
- A teacher at one of the top 500 universities in the world
- An engineer, doctor, or scientist with a Ph.D. from a UAE university and a GPA of 3.8 or higher
Additionally, specialists in areas deemed crucial for the UAE’s development, such as artificial intelligence, big data, or epidemiology.
- Outstanding Students
Are you a top student? The UAE wants you too! The UAE recognizes that today’s top students are tomorrow’s leaders and innovators. You can apply if:
- You’re a high school student with a grade of 95% or higher
- You’re a university student with a GPA of at least 3.75
Exceptional students might also be eligible if they’ve received prestigious scholarships or won recognized international competitions in fields like science, innovation, or arts.
- Executives
If you’re in a leadership role, you might qualify. Requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree
- At least five years of work experience
- A salary of 30,000 dirhams (about $8,170) or more per month
- A valid job contract in the UAE
Executives who have led companies to significant growth or played key roles in major projects might have an advantage in the application process.
- Scientists and Researchers
The UAE values knowledge and innovation. You might be eligible if:
- You have a Ph.D. or master’s degree in engineering, technology, or life sciences from a top university
- You’ve made important research achievements
Scientists working on projects aligned with the UAE’s strategic priorities, such as renewable energy or water conservation, might be particularly favored.
- Doctors and Specialists
Healthcare professionals are in high demand. You could qualify if:
- You’re licensed to practice in the UAE
- You have a Ph.D. degree
- You’ve made important achievements in your field
Doctors specializing in fields where the UAE aims to become a regional or global hub, such as oncology or cardiology, might have a stronger application.
The Golden Visa Application Process: What You Need to Know
Now that you know who can apply, let’s briefly touch on the Golden Visa application process. Here are the main steps:
- Check your eligibility based on the categories we’ve discussed.
- Gather all necessary documents to prove your qualifications.
- Submit your application through the official UAE government portal or a certified typing center.
- Pay the required fees.
- Wait for the authorities to review your application.
- If approved, you’ll receive your Golden Visa.
Remember, the Golden Visa application process may vary slightly depending on your category and location within the UAE. It’s always a good idea to check the latest information on the official UAE government websites or consult with a licensed immigration specialist.
Necessary Documents for UAE Golden Visa Application Process
- Passport and current residency visa (if applicable)
- Educational certificates and transcripts
- Professional licenses and certifications
- Proof of work experience (such as employment letters)
- Financial statements or investment proofs for investors
- Business plans or company documents for entrepreneurs
- Published research or patents for scientists
- Awards or recognition certificates
Ensure all documents are translated into Arabic if they’re in another language.
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
Getting a Golden Visa comes with several perks:
- Long-term residency: You can stay in the UAE for 5 or 10 years, depending on your visa type.
- Family inclusion: Your spouse and children can join you under your visa.
- No sponsor needed: Unlike other UAE visas, you don’t need a local sponsor.
- Work and study freedom: You can work, study, or run a business in the UAE.
- Easy renewal: When your visa expires, you can renew it if you still meet the requirements.
Is the UAE Golden Visa Right for You?
The UAE Golden Visa offers an exciting opportunity for many people. But is it the right choice for you? Here are some things to consider:
- Your long-term plans: Do you see yourself living in the UAE for many years?
- Your career or business goals: Does the UAE offer good opportunities in your field?
- Your family situation: Are you planning to bring your family with you?
- Your financial situation: Can you meet the investment requirements if you’re applying as an investor?
Take your time to think about these factors before deciding to apply.
Conclusion
The UAE Golden Visa program opens doors for talented individuals, investors, and families to build a long-term future in this dynamic country. By understanding who can apply and what the Golden Visa application process involves, you’re taking the first step towards an exciting new chapter in your life.
Remember, while this article provides an overview, immigration rules can change. Always check the latest information from official UAE government sources or consult with a licensed immigration expert before making any decisions.
Whether you’re a skilled professional, a talented student, or an ambitious entrepreneur, the UAE Golden Visa could be your pathway to new opportunities. Why not explore your eligibility today? Contact Abatera Pro Today!
Catherin Alexander
I have not checked in here for a while because I thought it was getting boring, but the last several posts are good quality so I guess I¦ll add you back to my daily bloglist You deserve it my friend 🙂