Key Highlights:

• You must cancel your existing UAE residence visa before applying for the Golden Visa through ICP online portal or Amer Service Centers
• Golden Visa provides 5-10 year renewable residency without local sponsor, allowing family sponsorship and business flexibility
• Mandatory health insurance coverage and medical examination (including HIV test and chest X-ray) are required for all Golden Visa applicants

Moving to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has several benefits, and for many expatriates and foreign nationals, ensuring long-term stability is of greatest significance. The UAE Golden Visa program offers a path to five or ten years of renewable residency without the need for a local sponsor. 

It was created to attract investors, professionals, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent. This thorough guide describes the procedures, eligibility, required paperwork, and important factors for a simple change if you’re currently living in the United Arab Emirates and wish to switch to a Golden Visa.

Eligibility Criteria for UAE Golden Visa

To switch to a Golden Visa, you must first determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for your chosen category. Common pathways include:

Investment in Real Estate: Minimum AED 2 million property investment. According to official requirements, the property must not be subject to a loan.

Business or Investment Fund: Deposit or invest at least AED 2 million in a UAE-based fund or business.

Investment Fund Option: Alternatively, provide a letter from an investment fund approved in the UAE stating there is a deposit of 2 million dirhams. 

Entrepreneurship: Own a UAE-based project with a minimum project value of AED 500,000, with approval from an auditor in the UAE or approval from emirate authorities for technical/future projects, or approval from an accredited business incubator.

Professional Talent: Hold specialized qualifications in science, engineering, medicine, or creative fields, often with supporting recommendation letters or proof of achievement.

Outstanding Students: High school students require a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education and receive a 5-year Golden Visa. University students need a recommendation letter from their university confirming a GPA of not less than 3.8 to receive a 10-year Golden Visa. 

Each category has specific documentation and financial requirements, so review the latest government guidelines in your case.

Also Read: How to Get a UAE Golden Visa with No Investment

Step-by-Step Process to Switch to a Golden Visa

1. Check Your Eligibility

• Review the official UAE government criteria for your category.
• Gather evidence such as investment documents, academic records, or professional certifications.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Common documents include:

• Valid passport copy
• Current UAE residence visa copy
• Passport-size photographs
• Proof of qualifying investment or business ownership
• Educational certificates certified by the Ministry of Education in the UAE. For foreign degrees, bring a certified copy from the Ministry of Education in one of the priority disciplines. 
• Valid Health Insurance Card for not less than one year and can be extended, as required by official UAE government regulations
• Recommendation letters or proof of achievements (for professionals and students)

3. Cancel Your Existing Residence Visa

Consult with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) regarding proper timing for visa transition. The cancellation process has specific fees (AED 50 for cancellation plus AED 100 for electronic services) and requires careful timing to avoid legal gaps. 

4. Submit Your Golden Visa Application

You can apply through several channels:

• Online: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security through their official website, http://www.icp.gov.ae, or the ICP UAE Smart mobile application. For entrepreneurs, applications in Abu Dhabi and Dubai must be submitted through approved business incubators (AREA 2071 in Dubai and HUB71 in Abu Dhabi).
• Amer Service Centers: Visit the nearest Amer or Customer Happiness Center to submit your application in person.
• Through Approved Partners: Some travel agencies and legal consultancies are authorized to assist with applications.

Application Steps:

• Fill in your personal and professional details.
• Upload all required documents.
• Pay the application fee (typically AED 1,100 for the residence permit, with additional processing and delivery charges; extra fees apply if applying from within the UAE).

Note: Processing fees vary by category and emirate. For visa cancellation services, fees include AED 50 for cancellation plus AED 100 for electronic services as per official ICP rates. 

5. Medical Examination and Biometrics

As part of the residency process, applicants must undergo a medical fitness test, including an HIV blood test and chest X-ray, and provide fingerprint scans.

6. Await Approval and Receive Your Golden Visa

Processing times vary from 72 hours to 30 days, depending on the category and completeness of your application.

Once approved, you will receive an electronic Golden Visa. The traditional visa stamp is no longer issued; your residency status is recorded digitally.

Benefits of Switching to a Golden Visa

1. Long-Term Stability

Secure your future with a 5- or 10-year renewable residency visa; no local sponsor is required. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your stay in the UAE is guaranteed for the long haul.

2. Family Sponsorship

Bring your loved ones along. The Golden Visa allows you to sponsor your spouse, children, and, in certain cases, even your parents and siblings. There are no limits on the number of domestic helpers you can sponsor.

3. Business Flexibility

Whether you’re changing jobs or launching your own venture, the Golden Visa gives you the freedom to do so without affecting your residency status.

4. Tax Advantages

Benefit from a tax-friendly environment with no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, keeping more of your wealth where it belongs.

While the UAE generally does not impose personal income tax, applicants should verify current tax regulations and compliance requirements with relevant UAE authorities, as policies may be subject to change.

5. Banking and Property Access

Open local bank accounts, invest in UAE real estate, and tap into a full range of financial services available to residents.

6. Healthcare and Education

Enjoy access to the UAE’s world-class healthcare system and educational institutions for both you and your family.

Also Read: Can You Rent Out Your Property While Holding a Golden Visa in the UAE

Key Considerations and Tips

1. Health Insurance

Comprehensive health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all Golden Visa holders. To avoid delays or penalties, ensure your policy meets the UAE’s regulatory standards.

2. Residency Requirements

While the Golden Visa allows extended stays outside the UAE without losing residency, it’s recommended to return at least 90 days before your visa expires to ensure a smooth renewal process.

3. Legal Compliance

Accuracy is critical. Double-check all submitted documents for consistency and validity. Errors or outdated paperwork can lead to delays or even rejection of your application.

4. Professional Help

If your case involves complex legalities or if you’re uncertain about your eligibility, it’s wise to consult a legal or immigration expert. Professional guidance can streamline the process and increase your chances of getting approval.

Final Word 

With careful planning, switching to a UAE Golden Visa while living there is an organized process that can provide long-term security as well as a number of personal and professional advantages.

You can switch to this, which differentiates resident status, and take advantage of everything the UAE has to offer by being aware of your eligibility, getting the necessary paperwork ready, and following the formal application procedures.

Book your free consultation call today with the experts of JSB Incorporation to learn more about securing your golden visa in the UAE.