UAE Golden Visa 2026: Secure 10-Year Residency, Tax-Free Living, and Full Family Sponsorship

Convert driving licenses from 52 countries without additional tests

Receive discounts through the Esaad card at 7200+ businesses. Esaad card eligibility requires separate application and verification.

Stay outside the UAE for over 6 months without cancellation. Note that this is a Golden Visa-specific benefit that differs from regular residence visas.

Access tax-free living with zero personal income tax

Enjoy 10 years of renewable residency without employer sponsorship

Sponsor family members, including children of any age

Get reduced health insurance premiums and mortgage rates

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is not just a visa; it’s a golden ticket to a life of unparalleled opportunities in one of the world’s most dynamic and prosperous nations. 

This long-term residency program, offering up to 10 years of renewable residency, is designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talents from around the globe. 

With no need for a local sponsor, the Golden Visa provides the freedom to live, work, and invest in the UAE on your terms, ensuring stability and growth for you and your family.

Types of Golden Visa

Investors

For individuals investing AED 2 million in real estate (5-year residency) or AED 2 million+ in public investments/funds (10-year residency), with full family sponsorship.

Entrepreneurs

Available for those running innovative projects, with eligibility to nominate up to three partners or employees for Golden Visas.

Skilled Professionals

Requires employment in the UAE, a bachelor’s degree, and a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000.

Scientists and Researchers

For PhD or Master’s holders with achievements in research and development, endorsed by UAE authorities.

Outstanding Students

University degree (GPA ≥3.8 from accredited institutions); application must be within 2 years of graduation.

Specialized Talents

Includes doctors, engineers, and professionals in AI, big data, and biotechnology fields.

Real Estate Investors

Owners of properties worth AED 2 million or more are eligible for a renewable 5-year visa.

Executive Directors

Senior employees earning AED 50,000+ monthly with valid contracts qualify for 10-year residency.

Elite Specialists in Health Fields

Healthcare professionals with valid licenses and five years of experience can apply for a 10-year visa.

Elite Specialists in Industry & Technology

For professionals in manufacturing or industrial engineering roles with seven years of experience.

Five Additional Golden Visa Categories

The UAE announced five groundbreaking new categories for the Golden Visa program, expanding opportunities for diverse global talent:

Nurses with 15+ Years of Experience

Following a directive from Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan on International Nurses Day, nurses employed by the Dubai Health Authority with over 15 years of service are now eligible for the 10-year Golden Visa. This recognizes their crucial role in the UAE’s healthcare system, especially as Dubai receives 3.7 million medical tourists annually.

Teachers and Educators

Private school principals, teachers, and higher education faculty in Dubai (managed by KHDA) and Ras Al Khaimah (managed by RAK DOK) can now apply for Golden Visas. Eligibility expanded to include educators who integrate AI, virtual learning, or STEM curricula, supporting Dubai’s Education 33 Strategy to attract 50,000+ international educators by 2030.

Digital Content Creators

Launched at the 1 Billion Followers Summit, content creators, including filmmakers, social media influencers, podcasters, and digital storytellers, can obtain Golden Visas through Creators HQ at Emirates Towers. The initiative aims to support 10,000 creators with a $40.8 billion Content Creator Support Fund.

E-sports Professionals

Gaming professionals aged 25 and above, including pro gamers, streamers, game developers, and esports coaches, are eligible under Dubai’s Gaming 2033 initiative. Applicants must demonstrate professional achievement through tournaments, content creation metrics, or game development portfolios.

Luxury Yacht Industry Professionals

Owners of yachts measuring 40 meters or longer, plus key maritime industry executives including CEOs, yacht brokers, and insurance providers, can access Golden Visas through Abu Dhabi’s “Golden Quay” program and Dubai’s Superyacht Golden Visa.

Officially Recognized UAE Golden Visa Benefits

  • Full business ownership in UAE mainland/free zones without local partnership mandates.
  • Automatic renewal applies only if eligibility criteria continue to be met.
  • Priority residency for PhD holders in STEM fields (AI, biotech, engineering).
  • Customs privileges: Free importer number and pre-clearance for shipments.
  • 10-year visas for elite specialists in Abu Dhabi’s 4th Industrial Revolution sectors.
  • Sponsorship of unlimited domestic staff (maids, drivers).
  • Access to the UAE’s world-class healthcare and education systems with residency.
  • Streamlined digital applications via the ICP Smart Services platform.
  • Exemption from service fees for people of determination and senior citizens.

Enhanced Family Sponsorship Benefits

Golden Visa holders enjoy unprecedented family sponsorship privileges that significantly exceed regular residence visa benefits:

  • Sons up to Age 25: Unlike regular visas that limit sons to 18 years, Golden Visa holders can sponsor sons until age 25. Sons with special needs (persons of determination) can be sponsored with no age restrictions whatsoever.
  • Daughters with No Age Limit: Unmarried daughters can be sponsored indefinitely regardless of age, providing long-term family stability. This removes the uncertainty faced by families under traditional visa schemes.
  • Children with Special Needs: Any child with disabilities can be sponsored without age restrictions, ensuring comprehensive family support.
  • Parents Sponsorship: Golden Visa holders can sponsor their parents with proof of financial support and valid health insurance, allowing multi-generational families to live together.

UAE Corporate Tax

While personal income tax remains 0% for individuals, the UAE introduced a corporate tax in 2023 that affects business-owning Golden Visa applicants:

  • Personal Income Tax: Remains 0% for all individuals, including Golden Visa holders, with no personal income tax on salaries, wages, or investment income.
  • Corporate Tax Structure: Businesses pay 0% tax on profits up to AED 375,000 and 9% on profits exceeding AED 375,000 annually. This applies to mainland companies and some free zone entities.
  • Free Zone Considerations: Qualifying Free Zone Persons may maintain 0% tax rates if they meet substance requirements and earn qualifying income from approved activities.
  • Large Multinational Enterprises: A 15% Domestic Minimum Top-up Tax for large multinational enterprises (global revenues exceeding EUR 750 million) took effect in January 2025 and remains in effect for 2026.

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Who Qualifies?

Government-Approved Eligibility Criteria:

Category Eligibility Criteria Visa Duration
Investors (Real Estate)
Minimum AED 2M investment in UAE property (individual or joint ownership)
5 years
Investors (Public Funds)
AED 2M+ investment in UAE-approved funds, or AED 250K+ annual tax contribution with federal approval
10 years
Entrepreneurs
Innovative project approved by UAE authorities (e.g., MoE, ADGM) with annual revenue ≥AED 500K
5 years
Skilled Professionals
Monthly salary ≥AED 30K + bachelor’s degree in priority fields (engineering, IT, healthcare, business)
10 years
Outstanding Students
High school GPA ≥95% (UAE schools) or university GPA ≥3.8 from accredited institutions
5–10 years
PhD Holders (STEM)
Doctoral degree in STEM fields (AI, biotech, engineering) from top 500 global universities
10 years
Doctors/Scientists
Valid UAE medical license and 5+ years’ experience in priority specialties (epidemiology, AI, genetics)
10 years
Creative Artists
UNESCO recognition or national/international awards in culture, arts, or media
10 years
Frontline Heroes
Recognition by UAE authorities for exceptional service during crises (e.g., healthcare workers)
10 years
Elite Specialists
Employment in Abu Dhabi’s 4th Industrial Revolution sectors (AI, robotics, blockchain) with 7+ years’ experience
10 years
Humanitarian Pioneers
Engagement in humanitarian organizations ≥5 years OR ≥500 volunteer hours OR AED 2M+ financial support for humanitarian initiatives
10 years
Athletes
Recommendation letter from General Sports Authority or sports councils
10 years

Important for Joint Ownership: If you purchase property jointly (e.g., with a spouse), each person’s share must equal AED 2 million to qualify individually. For a 50/50 joint ownership, the property must be worth at least AED 4 million. Dubai typically accepts equity value, while other emirates may require the full amount to be paid (not mortgaged). Verify requirements with your emirate’s land department.

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UAE Golden Visa Document Requirements

General Documents (All Applicants)

  • Valid passport copy (minimum 6 months validity)
  • Colored passport-sized photo with white background
  • Valid health insurance (12+ months coverage)
  • Proof of UAE address (rental contract/title deed)

Category-Specific Documents

1. Investors (Real Estate)

  • Title deed(s) for property valued ≥AED 2M (individual/joint ownership)
  • Bank NOC for mortgaged properties (if applicable)
  • Proof of residence inside the UAE (property ownership or tenancy contract)

2. Investors (Public Funds)

  • AED 2M+ investment in UAE-approved funds, or AED 250K+ annual tax contribution with federal approval

3. Entrepreneurs

  • MoE/ADGM approval letter for innovative projects
  • Proof of ≥AED 500K annual business revenue
  • Proof of residence inside the UAE (property ownership or tenancy contract)

4. Skilled Professionals

  • Employment contract approved by MOHRE
  • Attested bachelor’s degree + salary certificate (≥AED 30K/month)
  • Bank statements (last 3 months)

5. Scientists/Researchers

  • PhD/Master’s degree in STEM fields (attested by UAE Ministry of Education)
  • Scopus H-index ≥20 or Field Weighted Citation Index ≥1.0

6. Outstanding Students

  • University degree (GPA ≥3.8 from accredited institutions); application must be within 2 years of graduation.

7. Creative Professionals

  • UNESCO/regional awards or cultural achievement proofs
  • CV detailing works, exhibitions, or media recognition

8. Frontline Heroes

  • UAE government recognition certificate for crisis service

9. Elite Specialists

  • Employment proof in Abu Dhabi’s 4IR sectors (AI, robotics)
  • Practicing license (if applicable, e.g., doctors, engineers)

10. Family Sponsorship

  • Marriage certificate (attested) for spouse
  • Birth certificates (attested) for children
  • Dependency proof for parents (consulate-certified)

UAE Golden Visa Application Process

1. Prepare Required Documents

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • Colored passport-sized photo (white background, 35–40 mm width)
  • Category-specific proofs (e.g., property deeds, employment contracts, academic certificates)

2. Access ICP Smart Services Portal

  • Visit the ICP Smart Services portal.
  • Note: Dubai applicants may complete biometrics through GDRFA Dubai (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai) centers. 
  • Select “Public Services” → “Visa—Golden Visa—Nomination Request for Golden Residence—New Request”

3. Create/Log In to Account

  • New users: Register via Emirates Pass or UAE Pass.
  • Existing users: Log in with credentials

4. Initiate Nomination Request

  • Click “Start Service” under Golden Visa section

5. Enter Personal & Contact Information

  • Fill in your full name, nationality, passport details, and UAE address.
  • Provide contact details (email/phone) for updates

6. Select Golden Visa Category

  • Choose from 10 government-approved categories (e.g., investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals).
  • Select sub-category (e.g., real estate investor, STEM PhD holder)

7. Upload Supporting Documents

  • Attach scanned copies of passport, photos, proof of eligibility, and health insurance.
  • Ensure files meet ICP’s “ICAO-compliant” standards (e.g., PDF/JPG under 2 MB)

8. Review Application Details

  • Verify all entered data and documents.
  • Agree to terms and condition

9. Submit Nomination Request

  • Click “Submit” → Receive a confirmation message with a request number
  • Note: This service is free.

10. Await ICP Approval

  • Track application status via the ICP portal using the request number.
  • Approval timelines: 5–15 working days

11. Apply for Entry Permit

  • After nomination approval, select “Issue Multiple Entry Permit to Finalize Golden Residency.”
  • Pay AED 100 issuance fee online

12. Complete Biometrics & Finalize Visa

  • Visit an ICP Customer Happiness Center for biometrics (if required).
  • Receive Emirates ID and Golden Visa via email/ICP portal

Note: While the initial nomination request is free, the complete Golden Visa process involves substantial government fees.

Mandatory Health Insurance Requirements

The UAE has made health insurance absolutely mandatory for all Golden Visa applicants and their dependents, with no exceptions:

Minimum Coverage Requirements: Valid health insurance for at least one year is required before application submission. Travel insurance is not acceptable—only long-term UAE residency health insurance qualifies.

Family Coverage Mandatory: Insurance must cover all sponsored dependents, including spouse, children, and parents. The main applicant cannot proceed without comprehensive family coverage.

Basic Health Insurance Scheme: The government introduced an affordable Basic Health Insurance Scheme at AED 320 per year (excluding VAT), providing minimum legal coverage with access to seven hospitals, 46 clinics, and 45 pharmacies.

Emirate-Specific Standards: Dubai requires DHA-compliant coverage, Abu Dhabi requires DoH-approved plans, and the northern emirates now align with unified standards.

Cost Breakdown for UAE Golden Visa

Federal Government Fees

  1. Nomination Request: Free (no charge for submitting via ICP Smart Services)
  2. Entry Permit Fee: AED 100 (mandatory for processing the visa)
  3. Emirates ID: AED 1,153 (10-year validity)

Dubai-Specific Fees (Example)

  • Medical Exam: AED 700
  • Residency Permit Confirmation: AED 2,656.75
  • Dubai Land Department Fee: AED 4,020 (property investors)
  • Administrative Fees: AED 1,155
    Total: ~AED 9,684.75 (for a 10-year investor visa in Dubai)

Additional Costs

  • Health Insurance: Mandatory (varies by provider)
  • Document Attestation: Required for non-Arabic certificates (cost varies)

Notes

  • No federal visa issuance fee after nomination approval
  • Costs vary by emirate and category (e.g., Abu Dhabi applicants may have different fees).
  • Overstaying fines: AED 50/day for residency visa holders

Note: Fees vary by emirate and are subject to change. The costs listed are estimates. Verify current fees with the Dubai Land Department and ICP before application.

Official Application Process Warnings

UAE authorities issued specific warnings about fraudulent Golden Visa schemes:

No External Authorization: No external consultancy firms are officially authorized to process Golden Visa applications. All legitimate applications must go through official government channels only.

Beware of “Lifetime Visa” Scams: The UAE explicitly denied claims about lifetime visas or simplified fee-based schemes. No such programs exist, and authorities warn against companies making these false claims.

Official Channels Only: Applications must be submitted through the ICP Smart Services portal or official emirate authorities. Any other channels are unauthorized and potentially fraudulent.

Fee Structure Transparency: While nomination requests through ICP are free, the complete Golden Visa process involves substantial government fees, including entry permits (AED 100), Emirates ID (AED 1,153), and emirate-specific processing costs.

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JSB Incorporation: Your Trusted Partner for UAE Golden Visa Success

JSB Incorporation simplifies your Golden Visa journey with government-aligned expertise, handling eligibility checks, document attestation, and application preparation support. All applications must be submitted by you through official ICP Smart Services as required by UAE regulations.

Our dedicated team ensures compliance with the UAE’s evolving criteria, offers post-visa banking and housing support, and has achieved a 97% success rate across 1,200+ processed visas. 

From investors to entrepreneurs, we turn complex paperwork into a seamless, stress-free experience—so you can focus on building your future in the UAE.

Book your free consultation call today with the experts of JSB Incorporation to get started.

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