Aug 11, 2025
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term opportunity. Introduced to attract global talent and investors, this 5- or 10-year renewable visa is open to a wide range of individuals. But many ask: “Who exactly qualifies for the Golden Visa?”
In this guide, we’ll break down who can get the UAE Golden Visa, what each group needs to provide, and how you can get started with a trusted partner like Kanoony.
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program launched in 2019. It offers 5- and 10-year visas to foreigners without the need for an Emirati sponsor or employer.
Golden visa holders can:
Eligibility for the Golden Visa spans across multiple categories. Here’s a full breakdown of who can apply and what they need:
1. Real estate investors
| Requirements | Details |
| Property Value | AED 2 million or more (can include mortgages) |
| Proof Needed | Title deed, Oqood (if applicable), mortgage statement (if applicable) |
2. Entrepreneurs
| Requirements | Details |
| Project | Inventive project |
| Additional Docs | Business license, audit reports, innovation certificates (if applicable) |
3. Skilled professionals
| Requirements | Details |
| Salary | Minimum AED 30,000 per month |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree or higher |
4. Scientists and researchers
| Requirements | Details |
| Recommendation | From Emirates Scientists Council |
| Field | Natural science, engineering, technology, etc |
5. Outstanding students and graduates
| Requirements | Details |
| GPA | 3.5+ from UAE universities or top global institutions |
| Honors | Awards, patents, or recognitions strengthen the case |
6. Creative professionals
| Requirements | Details |
| Industry | Arts, media, culture, design |
| Endorsement | UAE Ministry of Culture or local creative body |
7. Frontline heroes and humanitarians
| Requirements | Details |
| Roles | Doctor, nurses, first responders, volunteers |
| Recognition | Proof of exceptional service due ng crises or community work |
8. Executives and senior managers
| Requirements | Details |
| Role | Senior positions in the UAE companies |
| Salary | AED 50,000+ monthly salary, NOC from the company |
| Category | Key Requirements | Visa Validity |
| Property investors | AED 2M+ real estate | 10 years |
| Entrepreneurs | UAE-based startup | 5-10 years |
| Skilled Professionals | AED 30K+ salary | 10 years |
| Scientists | Govt. Recommendation | 10 years |
| Students | GPA3.5+, UAE or global | 5 – 10 years |
| Artists & Creatives | Cultural approval | 10 years |
| Humanitarians | Service record | 10 years |
| Executives | Top management roles | 10 years |
| Document | Purpose |
| Passport copy | ID verification |
| Emirates ID (if any) | UAE residency proof |
| Personal photo | Visa processing |
| Financial proof | Salary or investment |
| Degree certificates | Education verification |
| NOC endorsements | From the employer or authorities |
| Company/trade license | For entrepreneurs |
You can apply while abroad, but some categories require UAE-based assets or employment.
Yes, if they meet the income and qualification criteria under the skilled professional category.
Yes, if their total value is AED 2 million or more.
Yes, you can sponsor your family members, parents, spouse, children, and, domestic workers.
Golden visas for property investors are typically issued in 5-7 working days. On the other hand, other categories usually take 4-6 weeks.
No, Golden Visa holders can stay abroad for extended periods without losing residency.
Each individual must meet the eligibility requirements independently unless jointly owning real estate or a company.
Yes, retirees meeting financial thresholds may be eligible under special categories.
Outstanding students from UAE or global universities can apply with supporting documents.
The visa is not tied to a specific employer, so your residency remains valid.
The UAE Golden Visa opens the door to long-term residency, career flexibility, business ownership, and family security in one of the world’s most forward-looking countries. Whether you’re a professional looking for career freedom, an investor ready to grow your portfolio, or a graduate with top honors, this visa empowers you to live, thrive, and succeed in the UAE without barriers.
Kanoony is your trusted legal and visa service partner for all Golden Visa categories. From eligibility checks to documentation, translation, and application submission, our experts ensure your Golden Visa journey is smooth, error-free, and compliant with the latest regulations. We simplify the process, save your time, and increase your chances of approval.
Visit us get your Golden visa today!
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