Key Highlights

• Secure a renewable 10-year UAE residence visa with “the privilege of not needing a sponsor.” Change jobs freely or start your own business without visa cancellation.
• Keep 100% of your salary with no personal income tax, and sponsor your spouse, children, and parents. Golden Visa holders can sponsor family members, “including spouses and children regardless of their ages.
• Golden Residence Permit holders are “exempt from the 180-day residency law, as the residency is considered void only if it expires outside the country”—plus receive 24/7 emergency consular assistance.

The UAE Golden Visa offers what the H-1B simply cannot, including 10 years of guaranteed residency, complete professional freedom, zero personal income tax, and the ability to sponsor your entire family with no age restrictions. And for Indians in 2026, the doors have never been wider open.​

If you’ve been exploring options beyond the H-1B, or if you’re already in the UAE and ready to secure your family’s future, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing your UAE Golden Visa as an Indian national in 2026.

Keep reading the article to learn more. 

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about the UAE Golden Visa. UAE immigration regulations, fees, and requirements are subject to change by government authorities. All information should be verified through official UAE government sources or authorized government service centers before making decisions. The salary thresholds, investment amounts, visa durations, and fees mentioned are just estimates. Final approval decisions rest solely with UAE federal and emirate authorities.

Understanding the UAE Golden Visa: What Makes It a Game-Changer for Indians

1. Why Indians Are Choosing the UAE Golden Visa Over Other Options

The numbers tell the story. In 2023 alone, Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs issued 158,000 Golden Visas, nearly double the 79,617 issued in 2022. Indians represent a significant share of these applicants, driven by several compelling advantages:​

• No personal income tax, capital gains tax, or estate duties. If you’re earning AED 30,000 monthly (around ₹7.2 lakh annually), you keep every dirham, something unimaginable in India’s tax structure.​
• Growing trend among Indian investors. Reports indicate Indians account for a significant share of Golden Visa holders, with thousands issued to Indian nationals annually.​
• Family-friendly sponsorship with no age restrictions. Unlike regular UAE visas that cap sons at age 25, the Golden Visa allows you to sponsor unmarried sons of any age, unmarried daughters indefinitely, and even your parents. Some restrictions may apply to married sons over 25; verify current family sponsorship policies with ICP or GDRFA.
• Economic stability in a developed nation. The UAE offers a predictable business environment, world-class infrastructure, and access to global markets.

2. Latest 2025-2026 Updates You Need to Know

The Golden Visa program has evolved significantly, with several updates making it more accessible for Indians in 2026:

• Consular support services launched at GITEX 2025. Golden Visa holders now receive 24/7 emergency assistance abroad, including a 30-minute online return document process for lost passports.​
• The Blue Residency Visa launched in February 2025. This 10-year visa targets environmental and sustainability professionals. The UAE granted the first 20 Blue Visas during the World Government Summit in February 2025, and applications are now open to qualifying individuals.​
• The GCC Unified Visa launches in 2026. Originally scheduled for late 2025, the unified visa allowing travel across all six Gulf Cooperation Council nations has been confirmed for a 2026 launch after a pilot phase.​
• Addition of new categories. Teachers, nurses with qualifying experience, content creators, e-sports professionals, and luxury yacht owners are now eligible.​
• Salary threshold for specialized professionals. The minimum monthly salary is AED 30,000 for specialized scientists and professionals, while executive directors require AED 50,000.​

Golden Visa Categories Available for Indians in 2026

1. Real Estate Investors: The Most Popular Route for Indians

If you’re considering property investment in Dubai or other emirates, this route offers straightforward eligibility criteria.

• Investment requirement: Minimum AED 2 million property value (approximately ₹4.8 crore as of November 2025).​
• Visa duration: 10 years, renewable.​
• Key flexibility: Mortgaged property is acceptable. You must demonstrate that at least AED 2 million has been paid. The property can be financed through specific local banks approved by the government.​
• Property eligibility: Residential, commercial, or off-plan properties qualify. Only the total property value of AED 2 million matters. However, Abu Dhabi may have emirate-specific requirements regarding completion percentage for off-plan units. Always verify current requirements with the relevant emirate land department.
• Retention period: Requirements vary by emirate. Abu Dhabi requires property ownership for a minimum of 2 years after Golden Visa issuance. Dubai does not mandate a specific minimum holding period but requires maintaining qualifying property ownership throughout your visa validity. Selling your property without acquiring a replacement qualifying property within 30 days may result in visa cancellation.
• Usage flexibility: You can rent out the property, leave it vacant, or use it as a secondary residence—ownership is what matters.​

Important clarification: According to the Dubai Land Department, the property investor Golden Visa provides a 10-year renewable residence permit for properties valued at AED 2 million or more.​

Disclaimer: Property valuations and mortgage terms can vary. Always verify current requirements with the Dubai Land Department (dubailand.gov.ae) or relevant emirate authorities before making investment decisions.​

2. Investment in Business or Public Funds

For those who prefer financial investments over physical property, this category offers alternatives.

• Investment option 1: AED 2 million deposit in an accredited UAE investment fund.​
• Investment option 2: AED 2 million in company shares, with the investor’s capital not less than AED 2 million. Must be proven through a certified financial report from an accredited audit firm.​
• Investment option 3: AED 2 million bank deposit at an accredited UAE bank, frozen for the entire Golden Visa validity period (initially 2 years, but must remain frozen throughout the 10-year visa duration to maintain eligibility). Early withdrawal may result in visa cancellation. The deposit requirement also applies at visa renewal.
• Alternative pathway for existing business owners: Proof of paying a minimum of AED 250,000 annually to the Federal Tax Authority for at least 2 consecutive years prior to application. This is a separate qualifying pathway; property investors and those investing AED 2 million in funds/companies are NOT required to meet this tax payment threshold.
• Visa duration: 10 years.​

3. Entrepreneurs and Business Owners

Indian entrepreneurs with established businesses or innovative startups can leverage this pathway.

• Option 1: Own a company registered in the SME category with annual revenue of at least AED 1 million.​
• Option 2: Approval from an accredited business incubator, the Ministry of Economy, or competent local authorities to establish a project in the country.​
• Option 3: Previous founder who sold pioneering projects for a total value of not less than AED 7 million, subject to approval by the Ministry of Economy.​
• Project value requirement: For innovative/technical projects approved by business incubators: minimum AED 500,000 project value.​
• Visa duration: 5-10 years depending on criteria.​
• Documentation needed: Business incubator nomination, audited financial statements, valid trade license, and comprehensive health insurance.​

4. Professionals and Skilled Workers: The Salary-Based Route

This is an accessible route for employed Indians already working in the UAE or planning to relocate.

• Salary threshold for specialized scientists and professionals: Minimum AED 30,000 monthly (approximately ₹7.2 lakh annually).​
• Salary threshold for executive directors: Minimum AED 50,000 monthly with 5+ years of experience in the same position.​
• Requirements for specialized professionals: Bachelor’s degree (properly attested), valid work contract, and minimum 2 years in specialized fields, including medicine, engineering, science, technology, education, and law.​
• Eligible categories: Scientists, doctors, engineers, teachers, nurses, researchers, and specialists in priority fields including epidemiology, artificial intelligence, big data, computer engineering, electronics, software, electrical engineering, genetics, and biotechnology.​
• Visa duration: 10 years for specialized talents.​

Important note: The salary requirement refers to your actual salary as stated in your employment contract and salary certificate.​

5. Exceptional Talents and Outstanding Professionals

For Indians with unique skills or recognition in their fields, this category offers significant opportunities.

• Categories: Scientists, content creators, e-sports professionals, humanitarian workers, artists, athletes, engineers, doctors, and specialists in culture and art.​
• Key requirement: Nomination letter or approval from the relevant UAE ministry or authority (Ministry of Health and Prevention, Emirates Council of Scientists, General Sports Authority, or Ministry of Culture).​
• PhD holders: Certified PhD degree from the Ministry of Education in priority disciplines.​
• Visa duration: 10 years.​

6. Outstanding Students and Graduates

High-achieving Indian students have a direct pathway to long-term residency.

• High school students: Minimum 95% grade in public or private secondary school, with recommendation from the Ministry of Education.​
• University graduates from UAE universities: Cumulative GPA not less than 3.8 for A-class universities or 3.8 for B-class universities rated by the Ministry of Education. Must not be more than 2 years since graduation.​
• University graduates from top 100 global universities: Cumulative GPA not less than 3.5, graduation certificate accredited by the Ministry of Education, and not more than 2 years since graduation.​
• Visa duration: 5 years for high school students, 10 years for university graduates.​

7. Humanitarian Pioneers

Launched as an official category, this recognizes contributions to humanitarian work.

• Option 1: Member of public benefit associations or institutions, or specialized employee, for at least 5 years.​
• Option 2: Recipients of appreciation awards from local, regional, or international institutions specialized in humanitarian work.​
• Option 3: Financial supporter of humanitarian work with a support value of at least AED 2 million.​
• Requirements: University degree minimum and nomination from the Ministry of Community Empowerment or authorized humanitarian institution.​
• Visa duration: 10 years.​

Eligibility Criteria and General Requirements Every Indian Must Meet

Regardless of which Golden Visa category you pursue, you’ll need to meet certain universal requirements based on official UAE government guidelines.

1. Universal Requirements You Cannot Skip

Age: 18 years or older.​

Valid passport: Minimum 6 months validity remaining.​

No criminal record: A Police clearance certificate is required from India.​

Clean immigration history: No overstayed visas or pending fines in the UAE or other GCC countries.​

Medical fitness: You must pass mandatory health screening.​

UAE-based health insurance: Valid for at least 1 year and extendable, mandatory coverage throughout your visa validity.​

Proof of housing: Home ownership or rental contract in the UAE.​

2. Financial Documentation Requirements

Your financial paperwork needs to be thorough and accurate.

Bank statements: Last 6 months showing consistent income (for professionals).​

Proof of investment amount: Property deeds, bank letters, or company documents depending on your category.​

Tax certificates: From the Federal Tax Authority if applicable for investor categories.​

No outstanding debts or legal disputes: These can disqualify your application.​

3. Background Checks: What UAE Authorities Will Verify

The UAE takes security seriously, and your background will undergo thorough scrutiny.

Clean criminal record from India: State and national police clearance.​

Good conduct certificate: From your home country or country of residence for the past 5 years.​

Immigration history verification: Through UAE systems to check for past violations.​

4. Health Requirements and Medical Tests: What to Expect

Medical screening is mandatory for all Golden Visa applicants aged 18 and above and must be completed at a government-approved medical center in the UAE.

Mandatory screening for: Tuberculosis (TB), HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Syphilis.​

Additional tests: Physical examination, chest X-ray, and blood tests.​

Health worker screening: Additional requirements apply if you work in the healthcare, food handling, childcare, beauty, or fitness sectors.​

Medical certificate validity: Valid for 6 months from issuance.​

If you fail the test: You can undergo treatment and retest.​

Medical test costs typically range from AED 400 to AED 750 (approximately ₹9,600 to ₹18,000).​

Step-by-Step Application Process for Indians: From Documentation to Approval

Applying for your UAE Golden Visa involves multiple stages, each with specific requirements based on official government procedures.

Pre-Application Phase: 4-8 Weeks Before Applying

Step 1: Document Preparation and Attestation

This is the most time-consuming part for Indian applicants. Document attestation must follow the official chain.

Passport: Ensure validity for at least 6 months.​

Educational certificate attestation chain:

1. State HRD (Human Resource Development) or GAD (General Administrative Department)
2. MEA India (Ministry of External Affairs)
3. UAE Embassy in India
4. Ministry of Foreign Affairs UAE (MOFA)​

Employment documents: Salary certificate, employment contract, and business certificates.​

Personal documents: Birth certificate, marriage certificate, and police clearance certificate.​

Translation requirement: All non-English/Arabic documents must be translated by an approved legal translator.​

The complete attestation process typically takes 15 to 20 working days.​

Step 2: Determine Your Category and Check Eligibility

• Assess which category fits your profile: Investor, professional, entrepreneur, student, or talent-based.​
• Verify minimum requirements: Financial thresholds, salary levels, or qualifications against official sources.​
• Gather category-specific documentation: Each pathway has unique paperwork needs.​

Step 3: Property Valuation (If Pursuing Real Estate Route)

• Obtain a property status statement: Certificate issued by the Dubai Land Department certifying the property value.​
• If mortgaged: Get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your bank clearly indicating the paid amount.​
• Ensure property value meets threshold: Must be at least AED 2 million.​

Step 4: Obtain Nomination (If Applicable)

• For talent-based categories: Get a nomination or approval letter from the relevant UAE ministry.​
• For entrepreneurs: Secure business incubator nomination or Ministry of Economy approval.​
• For humanitarian supporters: Obtain nomination from the Ministry of Community Empowerment.​

Application Submission Phase

Step 5: Online Application Submission

You’ll submit your application through official government portals only.

Visit official portals:

• GDRFA Dubai Smart Services (gdrfad.gov.ae) for Dubai residents​
• ICP Smart Services (icp.gov.ae) nationwide​
• Abu Dhabi Residents Office (adro.gov.ae) for Abu Dhabi applicants​

Create a login via UAE Pass: Your official digital identity for all UAE government services.​

• Fill out the application form: Enter all personal details accurately.​
• Upload required documents: As clear PDF scans.​
• Pay application fee: Varies by category and emirate.​

Step 6: Due Diligence Process

• Typical duration: Varies depending on complexity and category.​
• Authority reviews: Documents are checked for completeness and authenticity.​
• May request additional information: Be prepared to provide clarifications if needed.​

Step 7: Preliminary Approval and Entry Permit

• Receive a 6-month multiple-entry visa: This allows you to travel to the UAE and complete in-person procedures.​
• Valid for 6 months: You have this timeframe to complete the remaining steps.​

In-UAE Completion Phase

Step 8: Medical Examination and Biometrics

• Schedule appointment: At a government-approved medical center.​
• Complete health screening: TB, HIV, Hepatitis, blood tests, and chest X-ray.​
• Submit biometric data: Fingerprints and photographs at the GDRFA or ICP office.​
• Processing time: 2 to 5 days for medical results.​
• Medical test cost: AED 400 to AED 750.​

Step 9: Final Approval

Decision made: By GDRFA or ICP after medical clearance.​

Receive approval notification: Typically within days to weeks after medical completion.​

Step 10: Residence Visa Issuance

• Visa stamped in passport: Physical stamp in your passport.​
• Digital version available: On GDRFA/ICP apps immediately.​
• Valid for: 5 or 10 years, depending on your category.​

Step 11: Emirates ID Application

Apply at a designated center or online: Through approved channels.​

Cost: AED 1,153 to AED 1,200 for a 10-year Emirates ID.​

Processing time: Same day to 10 business days depending on service type.​

Step 12: Biometric Pickup and Account Activation

• Collect Emirates ID: From the designated center or via post.​
• Activate online account: Set up your digital profile.​
• Full residency established: You’re now an official UAE resident.​

How Long Does the Entire Process Take?

• Total processing time: Varies by category and completeness of documentation.​
• For property-based applications through approved centers: 7 to 10 working days, according to the Dubai Land Department.​
• Pre-approval stage: Can be as quick as days for straightforward cases with complete documentation.​

Note: Processing times vary based on your category, emirate, and document completeness. Always allow adequate time for each stage.​

Also Read: Why UAE Golden Visa Beats H-1B for Top Professionals in 2025

Essential Documentation Checklist for Indian Applicants

Having all required documents ready before you start the application process will prevent delays. Here’s your comprehensive checklist based on official requirements.

Personal Documents (Required for All Categories)

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)​
• Recent passport-sized photograph (white background)​
• Current UAE visa/residence permit (if already in UAE)​
• Birth certificate (attested)​
• Marriage certificate (attested, if applicable)​
• Police clearance certificate from India (attested)​

Financial Documentation

• Bank statements (last 6 months for professionals)​
• Salary certificate from current employer (for professionals)​
• Employment contract (attested, for professionals)​
• Proof of funds/investment (property deeds, bank deposit letters)​

Professional Documentation

• Bachelor’s degree (attested through the full MEA and UAE Embassy process)​
• Equivalency certificate from UAE Ministry of Education (for certain categories)​
• Professional licenses/certifications (attested)​
• Work experience certificates (for professionals)​

For Real Estate Investors

• Property title deed or e-Certificate of Title​
• Property status statement certificate from Dubai Land Department certifying value​
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from bank (if mortgaged) indicating paid amount​

For Entrepreneurs

• Trade license (attested and valid)​
• Certified financial report from accredited audit firm (for business investors)​
• Company registration documents​
• Business incubator nomination letter or Ministry of Economy approval​

Health and Other Requirements

• Medical fitness certificate (obtained in UAE during application)​
• Health insurance policy (valid for a minimum of 1 year)​
• Proof of housing in UAE (rental contract or ownership)​

For Family Sponsorship

• Attested marriage certificate (for spouse)​
• Attested birth certificates (for children)​
• Medical fitness certificates for each family member​

Pro tip: Create both physical and digital copies of all documents. Keep them organized in labeled folders—you’ll reference them multiple times throughout the process.

Financial Breakdown: What Indians Must Budget for in 2026

Understanding the complete cost structure helps you plan your finances accurately. Here’s what you need to budget based on official government fees.

1. Government Fees for 10-Year Golden Visa (Dubai Land Department Example)

Based on the INR to AED exchange rate of approximately ₹24.14 per AED as of November 2025.

2. Additional Costs (Not Government Fees)

Document translation and attestation: ₹15,000 to ₹30,000.​

Property valuation certificate: Varies by service provider.​

Bank NOC processing: As per bank charges.​

Visa processing through authorized service centers: Optional service fees vary.​

3. Real Estate Investment Costs (If Property Route)

Minimum property investment: AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.8+ crore).​

Dubai Land Department registration fee: Approximately 4% of property value for registration and transfer fees.​

Additional transaction costs: Agent fees and administrative charges typically 2-4% of property value.

4. Annual Considerations

Health insurance: Mandatory throughout visa validity period. Cost varies by coverage level.​

Property maintenance: If pursuing the property investment route (ongoing).

Visa renewal fees: Apply before expiry; they are typically similar to initial issuance costs.​

Family Sponsorship Rules and Benefits

1. Who Can You Sponsor Under the Golden Visa?

Spouse: No age restrictions. Valid attested marriage certificate is required.​

Children: Sons and daughters of any age (unlike regular visas, which are capped at age 25 for sons). Unmarried sons and daughters can be sponsored at any age. Unmarried daughters have no age limit. Some sources indicate potential restrictions for married sons over 25—verify current eligibility with the relevant authority.

Unmarried daughters: Can be sponsored, providing long-term security.​

Parents: Can be sponsored with proof of relationship and valid health insurance.​

Domestic helpers: Unlimited number allowed, including housemaids, drivers, gardeners, and nannies.​

This is a significant advantage compared to regular UAE work visas, where family sponsorship has age restrictions and limitations.​

2. Sponsorship Requirements for Each Family Member

Each family member must have valid health insurance: Coverage throughout the visa period.​

Medical fitness test required: All individuals over 18 years must pass the mandatory health screening.​

Attested marriage/birth certificates: Proving relationship to the primary visa holder.​

Proof of housing: Accommodation proof for all sponsored individuals.​

3. Family Benefits That Set the Golden Visa Apart

Long-term visa duration: Family members receive the same visa duration as the primary applicant.​

No usual six-month absence rule: Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for more than the usual six months without losing residence validity.​

Family security: In the event of the primary holder’s death, family members may stay in the UAE until the end of their permit duration.​

No employer dependency for sponsored family members: They can pursue their own opportunities.​

Common Rejection Reasons and How Indians Can Avoid Them

Understanding why Golden Visa applications get rejected—and how to prevent these issues—can save you time and money.

1. Documentation-Related Rejections

Incomplete applications: Missing documents or unfilled fields result in rejection.​

How to avoid: Use the official checklist from the relevant authority (ICP, GDRFA, or emirate-specific). Double-check every requirement.

Spelling errors or mismatched details: Name differences between documents trigger red flags.​

How to avoid: Verify consistency across all documents. If variations exist, provide official documentation explaining them.

Invalid or expired documents: Passports and certificates that are expired or nearing expiry.​

How to avoid: Check validity at least 6 months before applying. Renew any expiring documents proactively.

Unattested documents: Educational certificates without completing the full attestation chain.​

How to avoid: Complete the entire attestation process: State HRD → MEA India → UAE Embassy in India → MOFA UAE.​

2. Financial Qualification Issues

Insufficient financial proof: Bank statements not showing the required consistent income.​

How to avoid: Maintain consistent salary history. Ensure your bank statements clearly reflect the minimum threshold for your category.​

Investment proof issues: Property not officially valued at the required amount by authorities.​

How to avoid: Obtain an official property status statement from the Dubai Land Department, not just the purchase contract.​

Mortgage equity issues: Mortgaged property where documentation doesn’t clearly show the paid amount.​

How to avoid: Get a clear NOC from your bank stating the exact amount paid.​

3. Background and Legal Issues

Criminal record: Previous convictions discovered during background checks.​

How to avoid: Obtain a police clearance certificate. Be transparent about any past issues that have been resolved.​

Immigration violations: Overstayed visa or unresolved fines in the UAE.​

How to avoid: Clear all outstanding fines before applying. Check your status through official GDRFA services.​

4. Health-Related Rejections

Failed medical test: Conditions detected during mandatory screening.​

How to avoid: Medical failures aren’t permanent. You can undergo treatment and retest.​

No health insurance: Missing required insurance coverage.​

How to avoid: Obtain UAE-based health insurance valid for at least 1 year before applying.​

5. Professional Category Mistakes

Salary documentation issues: Salary certificate not matching the required threshold.​

How to avoid: Ensure your official salary certificate from your employer clearly states your salary meets the minimum requirement (AED 30,000 for specialized professionals or AED 50,000 for executive directors).​

Degree equivalency issues: Foreign degree without proper attestation or equivalency.​

How to avoid: Complete full attestation and obtain MOE equivalency if required for your category.​

How to Prevent Rejections: Best Practices

• Use official portals only: Apply through icp.gov.ae, gdrfad.gov.ae, or dubailand.gov.ae.​
• Double-check all documents before upload: One mistake can delay your application significantly.​
• Ensure clear, high-quality document scans: Blurry scans will be rejected.​
• Verify translations are by approved translators: Unofficial translations won’t be accepted.​
• Maintain an organized file: Keep copies of all documents, receipts, and reference numbers.​

Processing Timeline and Status Tracking: What to Expect

Understanding realistic timelines helps you plan your move and manage expectations throughout the application process.

1. Realistic Processing Timeline by Stage

Source: Based on official timelines from Dubai Land Department, GDRFA Dubai, and ICP.​

2. Monitoring Your Application Status

Log into official apps: the GDRFA Dubai app or   smart app shows real-time updates.​

Check status via UAE Pass: Your unified digital identity for all government services.​

Save your reference number: Essential for all status checks and follow-up queries.​

3. What Causes Processing Delays

Missing or incomplete documents: The most common cause.​

Additional verification needed: Background checks may extend processing time.​

Requests for clarification from authorities: Respond immediately to avoid delays.​

Peak application periods: Processing may slow during high-volume seasons.​

Also Read: UAE Golden Visa Questions Answered: JSB Founder on Talk 100.3 FM

Critical Points Indians Must Verify Before Applying

These are the details that many applicants misunderstand based on official UAE government sources.

1. Self-Sponsorship Confirmation: Understanding Your Freedom

Golden Visa does NOT require employer sponsorship: This is fundamentally different from regular work permits.​

You are independent: The privilege of not needing a sponsor is explicitly stated in official guidelines.​

Can work for any employer or be self-employed: Golden Visa holders have complete professional flexibility.​

Job loss does not impact visa validity: Unlike regular work permits that are employer-dependent.​

This freedom is one of the Golden Visa’s biggest advantages—once approved, your residency is independent of your employment status.​

2. Mortgage Property Eligibility: Understanding the Rules

Mortgaged property IS allowed: Official sources confirm this.​

Documentation requirement: You must provide proof that at least AED 2 million has been paid. This is confirmed by a bank letter or NOC.​

Approved banks: The property may be a loan from specific local banks approved by the competent local entity.​

Example from official sources: “In the event of a mortgaged property, a bank letter indicating 2 million AED paid as proof is to be provided.”​

3. Renewal and Maintenance Rules: Protecting Your Status

Renewal required: Golden Visas are renewable but you must apply before expiry.​

Property investor requirement: Must maintain ownership of property to keep visa valid.​

No six-month absence rule: Golden Visa holders have “the ability to stay outside the UAE for more than the usual period of six months in order to keep their residence visa valid.”​

Family protection: “The permit for family members to stay in the UAE until the end of their permit duration, if the primary holder of the Golden visa passes away.”

New Golden Visa Features and Expanded Services for 2025-2026

The UAE continues to enhance the Golden Visa program, adding services and categories that make long-term residency more valuable.

1. Consular Support Services (Launched October 2025)

Golden Visa holders now receive enhanced overseas protection, announced at GITEX 2025.​

24/7 emergency assistance: Available for Golden Visa holders traveling abroad.​

Passport loss support: New 30-minute online return document process for lost passports while traveling.​

Family coverage: Services extend to your dependents.​

2. Blue Residency Visa (Launched February 2025)

Official launch: Announced at the World Government Summit in February 2025, with the first 20 visas granted to sustainability pioneers.​

Target audience: Individuals with exceptional contributions to environmental protection, sustainability, and renewable energy.​

Eligibility categories: Climate influencers, scientists and researchers (approved by the UAE Scientists Council), green sector investors and entrepreneurs, and environmental specialists in UAE organizations.​

Application process: Through ICP (icp.gov.ae) with nomination request (AED 350).​

Visa duration: 10 years.​

Current status: Applications are now open to qualifying individuals.​

3. GCC Unified Visa (Launching 2026)

Updated timeline: Originally scheduled for late 2025, now confirmed for 2026 launch after completion of pilot phase.​

Official confirmation: Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khateeb confirmed the updated timeline at the Gulf Gateway Investment Forum in Bahrain in November 2025.​

Function: Single visa for travel across all six GCC nations (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar).​

Current status: Pilot phase underway, with full implementation expected in 2026.​

FAQs

Q1: Can I apply for a UAE Golden Visa while on a tourist visa?

Yes, you can apply while on any valid UAE visa, including a tourist visa. Once approved, you’ll proceed with the residence visa issuance process.​

Q2: Do I lose my Golden Visa if I lose my job?

No. The Golden Visa provides “the privilege of not needing a sponsor,” according to official UAE government sources. Your visa is not tied to employment.​

Q3: Can I sponsor my parents along with my spouse and children?

Yes. Official sources confirm Golden Visa holders have “the ability to sponsor their family members, including spouses and children regardless of their ages,” and can sponsor parents.​

Q4: What happens if I sell my property?

Requirements vary by emirate. Abu Dhabi requires maintaining property ownership for at least 2 years after visa issuance. In Dubai, selling your property triggers a 30-day grace period to transfer your visa sponsorship to another qualifying property worth AED 2 million or more. Failure to acquire replacement property within 30 days results in visa cancellation. 

Q5: Is document attestation from India mandatory?

Yes, absolutely. Educational and legal documents must be attested through the proper channels: State Ministry → MEA India → UAE Embassy in India → MOFA UAE.​

Q6: How long is the medical test valid for?

The medical fitness certificate validity period is typically 6 months.​

Q7: Can I use a mortgaged property for a Golden Visa?

Yes. Official Dubai Land Department guidelines state: “The property may be mortgaged, and a no-objection bank letter is to be submitted indicating that the bank does not object to issuing a residence permit on the property, indicating the paid amount.”​

Q8: What is the property investor Golden Visa duration?

The Dubai Land Department confirms it’s a “10-year renewable residence permit” for properties valued at AED 2 million or more.​

Q9: What’s the salary requirement for professionals?

It depends on your category. Specialized scientists and professionals require a minimum salary of AED 30,000 monthly. Executive directors require AED 50,000 monthly with 5+ years of experience.​

Q10: Can I work in any job with a Golden Visa?

Yes. The Golden Visa provides self-sponsorship, meaning you can work for any employer, be self-employed, or work for multiple employers.​

Q11: Are there scams I should be aware of?

Yes. In July 2025, false claims about “lifetime residency for AED 100,000” circulated. UAE authorities officially denied these claims. Always use official government portals: u.ae, icp.gov.ae, gdrfad.gov.ae, or dubailand.gov.ae.​

Q12: How long can I stay outside the UAE with a Golden Visa?

Golden Visa holders have “the ability to stay outside the UAE for more than the usual period of six months in order to keep their residence visa valid,” according to official sources.​

Planning Your Application: Timeline and Preparation Checklist

Proper planning makes the difference between a smooth application and delays.

3 Months Before Application

• Identify your qualifying category: Based on official eligibility criteria​
• Gather all personal documents: Passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate​
• Start attestation process: This takes 4-6 weeks, so begin early​
• Ensure passport validity: Must have 6+ months remaining​
• Obtain police clearance certificate: From India​

1 Month Before Application

• Complete document attestation chain: Verify all certificates have proper stamps​
• Get property valuation if pursuing investor route: Official certificate from Dubai Land Department​
• Compile all financial documents: Bank statements and proof of income/investment​
• Arrange health insurance: UAE-based policy valid for at least 1 year​

2 Weeks Before Application

• Get passport photographs: White background, meeting UAE specifications​
• Have documents translated: By approved translators for non-English/Arabic materials​
• Create digital copies: Scan all documents at high resolution​
• Register on official portal: ICP, GDRFA, or Dubai Land Department depending on your category​

Application Week

• Submit a complete application: With all documents uploaded through official portal​
• Pay application fee: Through official channels only​
• Keep confirmation reference number: Essential for tracking​
• Track status: Monitor progress through official app or portal​

Post-Approval Phase

• Book medical appointment: At government-approved center in UAE​
• Complete biometric submission: Bring all original documents​
• Apply for Emirates ID: After visa stamping​
• Plan family sponsorship if applicable: Gather their documents​

Your Path Forward: Securing Your UAE Golden Visa with Confidence

The UAE Golden Visa represents more than just a residency permit. It’s your gateway to a stable, tax-free future where you control your career, protect your family, and build lasting wealth without visa uncertainties.

For Indian professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs in 2026, the opportunities are clearer than ever, with official pathways well-defined by UAE government sources.

At JSB Incorporation, we understand that navigating the UAE Golden Visa process requires thorough knowledge of official requirements and procedures. That’s why we offer comprehensive support for Golden Visa applications, combining our expertise in UAE regulations with a commitment to accuracy and transparency.

Ready to start your Golden Visa journey?

Contact us for a complimentary eligibility consultation or visit the official website for more information