Golden Visa (10-Year Residency) in UAE
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The UAE Golden Visa grants 10-year renewable residency without the need for a traditional employer sponsor — a landmark change in a country that historically required foreign residents to be tied to a sponsor:
- Investors: Property investors (AED 2 million+ in UAE real estate) or business investors with qualifying investments.
- Skilled professionals: Employees earning AED 30,000+/month in specialised fields, or holding a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in priority sectors.
- Scientists and researchers: Recognised by the Emirates Scientists Council or UAE research institutions.
- Outstanding students: High school graduates with 95%+ averages or university students with high GPAs from ranked institutions.
- Entrepreneurs, doctors, engineers, and creative talent who meet specific criteria in their fields.
- Self-sponsorship: Golden Visa holders can sponsor themselves — no employer or family sponsor is needed.
- Family inclusion: You can sponsor your spouse, children (regardless of age), and parents.
- Unlimited stay abroad: Unlike regular residency visas (which expire if you stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months), the Golden Visa remains valid regardless of time spent abroad.
When does it apply?
- You meet one of the eligible categories for the Golden Visa.
- You want long-term residency in the UAE without being tied to an employer sponsor.
- Applications are open to all nationalities.
What to Do If You Want to Apply for a UAE Golden Visa
- Check your eligibility on the ICP website (icp.gov.ae) or through the GDRFA portal in your emirate (GDRFA Dubai at gdrfa.gov.ae is the most commonly used).
- Apply online through the ICP smart app, the ICP website, or the GDRFA app for Dubai residents.
- Prepare supporting documents: passport, current visa, Emirates ID, salary certificate or investment proof, educational certificates (attested), and professional licences.
- Nominate your dependents during the application to include your spouse, children, and parents on your visa.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not use fraudulent documents — applications are thoroughly verified through ICP and GDRFA systems, and fraud can result in a permanent entry ban.
- Do not forget to renew — the Golden Visa is valid for 10 years but must be renewed before it expires.
- Do not assume all property investments qualify — the property must be valued at AED 2 million or above and must not be under a mortgage that brings the equity below the threshold (rules vary — confirm with ICP or GDRFA).
Common Questions
When does it apply — golden visa (10-year residency)?
You meet one of the eligible categories for the Golden Visa.You want long-term residency in the UAE without being tied to an employer sponsor.Applications are open to all nationalities.
What should I do if I think I qualify for the UAE Golden Visa and want to apply?
Check your eligibility on the ICP website (icp.gov.ae) or through the GDRFA portal in your emirate (GDRFA Dubai at gdrfa.gov.ae is the most commonly used).Apply online through the ICP smart app, the ICP website, or the GDRFA app for Dubai residents.Prepare supporting documents: passport, current visa, Emirates ID, salary certificate or investment proof, educational certificates (attested), and professional licences.Nominate your dependents during the application to include your spouse, children, and parents on your visa.
What should you NOT do — golden visa (10-year residency)?
Do not use fraudulent documents — applications are thoroughly verified through ICP and GDRFA systems, and fraud can result in a permanent entry ban.Do not forget to renew — the Golden Visa is valid for 10 years but must be renewed before it expires.Do not assume all property investments qualify — the property must be valued at AED 2 million or above and must not be under a mortgage that brings the equity below the threshold (rules vary — confirm with ICP or GDRFA).