In May 2019, the Emirati government implemented the UAE Golden Visa, a new system for people seeking long-term residency in the nation. Shortly after the scheme’s launch by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, more than 400 entrepreneurs and investors were issued with a UAE Golden Visa. So what is Gold Visa in Dubai? How can you acquire yours? We’re taking a closer look.
But first, what is a Gold Visa in Dubai?
The Gold Visa in Dubai is a renewable permanent residency scheme that grants holders a visa that is valid for 5 or 10 years. Beyond not needing a sponsor, UAE gold card visa holders enjoy additional advantages including an entry visa for six months with multiple entries, the possibility to exit the UAE for longer than 6 months (the usual visa validation period), the opportunity to sponsor spouses, children and domestic helpers, and permission for family members to remain in the UAE until the end of the permit duration should the primary visa holder pass away.
In sum, the UAE Golden Visa is your ticket to making Dubai your permanent residence, benefitting from the world-class entrepreneurial opportunities the nation has to offer in addition to the luxurious Dubai lifestyle.
Dubai Golden Visa Requirements
There are three main categories for acquiring a Golden Visa in the UAE – investors, entrepreneurs and talents – each of which come with their own set of eligibility requirements.
Investors in public investments may be granted a 10-year UAE Golden Visa subject to an investment of AED two million in an investment fund or company capital. Alternatively, investors can be the government no less than AED 250,000 on a yearly basis. The applicant must own that capital (it cannot be a loan) and they must provide proof of medical insurance for themselves and their family.
Entrepreneurs, meanwhile, are eligible for a Golden Visa UAE for a period of 5 years. The economic project must be of technical or future nature and based on risk and innovation. The company must be worth a minimum of 500,000 AED and accredited by a local business incubator.
Outstanding talents are understood to be doctors, scientists, creative people of culture and art, inventors, executives, PhD holders and specialists in the fields of engineering and science. Talents are eligible for 10-year Gold Visas in Dubai. The list of requirements for this category depends on the talent in question.
Alternatives to the UAE Gold Visa
If you don’t meet the requirements for Gold Card residency, there are other options available to you. Standard residence visas are valid for 1, 2 or 3 years with a sponsor and can be renewed an unlimited number of times. Some of the main criteria for standard residence visa include purchasing real estate, entering into an employment contract, incorporating a company in the UAE and studying in the UAE.
Dubai Gold Visa benefits
The most immediate benefit to being a UAE Gold Visa holder is long-term residency in one of the most appealing places to live on the planet. The UAE boasts an unbeatable business climate. Investors and entrepreneurs can quickly and easily open mainland, offshore and free zone companies with the benefit of 0% tax. The nation has world-class infrastructure and facilities and its location at the nexus of the East and West give it exceptional positioning for global expansion.
Beyond the business benefits, the UAE has a desirable lifestyle. Year-round sunshine pairs with luxurious accommodation options, fine dining restaurants, an incredible art and culture scene and the world’s best shopping, not to mention the dreamy beaches. Dubai is additionally home to a selection of prestigious international schools where your children will receive an excellent education.
Apply for your UAE Golden Visa today
If you want to save yourself the headache of applying for your UAE Golden Visa, entrust Dubai’s number one business services provider to take care of the proceedings for you. Our Dubai and UAE visa and residency team are on hand to provide expert guidance and local insight, taking care of each and every step quickly and efficiently, and keeping you informed of their progress.
Contact us today to get the ball rolling.
