The UAE golden visa is a 10-year, renewable residence visa that does not depend on an employer's sponsorship. Two routes cover most professionals and investors.
Skilled professional route
You generally qualify if you meet all of these:
- A monthly basic salary of at least AED 30,000.
- A bachelor's degree or equivalent.
- A job classed at MOHRE skill level 1 or 2, which covers managers and professionals.
- Employment in the UAE, and a valid practising licence if your profession needs one.
Property investor route
You generally qualify if you own property in the UAE worth at least AED 2 million. Mortgaged property and off-plan property from approved developers can count, subject to the authority's conditions.
Why it matters financially
- You can stay in the UAE between jobs without a sponsor.
- Family members can be sponsored.
- It supports longer-term planning: property, schooling and savings.
Before you apply
- Get your degree attested.
- Ask your employer for a salary certificate showing basic salary.
- For property, get a title deed and, if mortgaged, a bank letter.
- Check the latest requirements with ICP or GDRFA Dubai, as criteria are updated from time to time.
Check your eligibility with our free golden visa check.
Frequently asked questions
The authorities generally look at basic monthly salary, so check your contract and salary certificate.
10 years, renewable.
