The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program introduced by the United Arab Emirates. It provides a 10-year renewable visa to certain categories of expatriates: investors, entrepreneurs, professional talents, researchers in various fields of knowledge, and bright students.

The purpose of this visa is to attract and retain high-level talent and investment in the country, contributing to the nation’s development and growth. Holders of the Golden Visa are allowed to reside in the UAE along with their families, which includes spouse and children. They can also sponsor visas for their parents and siblings.

The Golden Visa does not require the individual to have Emirati sponsorship, and it does not mandate the holder to reside in the UAE for a minimum period of time for the visa to remain valid. This provides flexibility for individuals who may need to travel frequently or live outside the UAE for periods of time.

The visa comes with numerous benefits including the ability to work or study anywhere in the UAE without needing a national guarantor, access to world-class health and education services, and the option to start your own business in the UAE.

1. Investors: Investors who own a property in the UAE are eligible. There are two types of investors: those who invest in public investments through a deposit, and those who invest by owning a company.

2. Entrepreneurs: This category includes those who have an existing project with a minimum capital of AED 500,000, or those who have the approval of an accredited business incubator in the country.

3. Talented Individuals: This includes individuals with specialized talents and researchers in various fields of science and knowledge such as doctors, specialists, scientists, and inventors, as well as creative individuals in culture and art. The individual must have a valid employment contract in a specialized field considered significant for the UAE.

4. Outstanding Students: This includes high school students living in the UAE who rank top in the country, and university students who have a distinction GPA of at least 3.75 upon graduation.

Please note that each category has specific requirements which must be fulfilled. It’s recommended to check the official UAE Government Portal for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Foreign Investors:

• A public investment of at least AED 10 million for a 10-year visa.
• Business partners can contribute AED 10 million each for a 10-year visa.
• A minimum of AED 5 million for a 5-year visa.
• The invested amount must be retained for at least 3 years and cannot be loaned.
• Full ownership of assets is required, and 60% of the fund should not be in real estate.
• The visa includes the spouse, children, one executive director, and an advisor.

Individuals with Specialized Talent:

• Accreditation by respective departments and fields.
• Scientists require accreditation by the Emirates Scientists Council or holders of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence.
• Creative individuals need accreditation in culture and art by the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development.
• Educators need to be from approved international universities.
• Doctors need 20 years of experience in their field.
• The visa also covers spouses and children.

Real Estate Investors:

• Similar requirements as general investors, but they can apply for a 5-year visa with an AED 5 million investment.

Students and Specialists:

• Outstanding students need at least a 95% grade in secondary schools.
• University students need a minimum GPA of 3.75.

Entrepreneurs:

• An existing project with a minimum capital of AED 500,000 or approval from an authorized business incubator.

Chief Executives:

• A bachelor’s degree, 5 years of experience, and a salary of 30,000 AED or more under a legitimate job contract.

Families:

• The Golden Visa also covers the families of the applicants.