The UAE Golden Visa requirements are among the most important criteria for individuals who want to secure long-term residency in the United Arab Emirates. Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional, or student, the UAE Golden Visa opens the door to a stable and highly rewarding future in one of the world’s most advanced countries.

This article breaks down every requirement, document, and eligibility category in detail—making it easier for you to determine where you fit and how to apply successfully.

What Is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program designed to attract global talent, investors, innovators, and skilled professionals. It allows residency for 5 or 10 years, depending on the applicant category.

Golden Visa holders enjoy:

• Self-sponsorship
  
• Extended stay outside UAE
  
• Family sponsorship with no age limit
  
• Full business ownership
  
• Long-term career stability
  

Why Understanding UAE Golden Visa Requirements Matters

Meeting the UAE Golden Visa requirements determines:

• Whether you qualify
  
• Which category fits you
  
• What documents you need
  
• How fast you get approval
  

Because the UAE offers multiple eligibility paths, understanding the exact criteria ensures your application is strong, error-free, and well-organized.

Complete UAE Golden Visa Eligibility Categories

Below are the official UAE Golden Visa requirements across all major applicant groups.

1. Real Estate Investors Requirements

To qualify under the Property Investor category, you must meet the following:

Requirements

• Own property worth AED 2 million or more
  
• The property can be off-plan or completed
  
• If mortgaged, provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the bank
  
• Joint ownership allowed, but your share must be minimum AED 2 million
  

Documents Needed

• Title deed
  
• Property valuation report
  
• Payment statement
  
• Passport & Emirates ID
  

2. Entrepreneurs Requirements

Entrepreneurs play a major role in the UAE economy and therefore have a dedicated Golden Visa path.

Requirements

• Own or partnership in an approved startup
  
• Startup generating AED 1 million+ revenue
  
• Must be registered in the UAE
  
• Must receive approval from:
  
  • Ministry of Economy
    
  • Dubai Future Foundation (if applicable)
    

Documents

• Business license
  
• Bank statements
  
• Audit reports
  
• Founder’s passport
  

3. Skilled Professionals Requirements

This is one of the most popular Golden Visa categories.

Requirements

• Valid employment contract
  
• Job must be in priority sectors:
  
  • Engineering
    
  • Education
    
  • IT
    
  • Business
    
  • Law
    
  • Healthcare
    
  • Marketing
    
• Salary must be AED 30,000+ per month
  
• Classified under MOHRE skill level 1 or 2
  
• Bachelor’s degree required
  

Documents

• Labor contract
  
• Salary certificate
  
• Degree certificate (attested)
  

4. Scientists Requirements

Requirements

• Recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council
  
• Proven contributions to research or innovation
  
• PhD or Master’s degree in fields like:
  
  • Engineering
    
  • Biotechnology
    
  • Computer Science
    
  • Physics
    

Documents

• Academic qualifications
  
• Research portfolio
  
• Council approval letter
  

5. Doctors Requirements

Due to the UAE’s growing healthcare sector, doctors are prioritized.

Requirements

Meet at least two of the following criteria:

• PhD from top 500 global universities
  
• Awards or certificates of excellence
  
• Recognized contributions to medical research
  
• 10+ years of experience
  
• Specialization in high-demand fields
  

Documents

• Medical license
  
• Degree certificates
  
• Experience letters
  

6. Nurses & Healthcare Workers Requirements

Nurses and frontline medical workers have simplified eligibility.

Requirements

• Valid DHA, DOH, or MOH license
  
• Full-time employment contract
  
• Experience in priority healthcare roles
  

Documents

• Nursing license
  
• Employment contract
  
• Passport & Emirates ID
  

7. Students & Exceptional Graduates Requirements

Requirements

• GPA of 3.8 or higher (for universities inside UAE)
  
• Graduates from top 100 global universities (outside UAE)
  
• Recommendation letter from university
  

Documents

• Transcripts
  
• Degree certificate
  
• Recommendation letter
  

8. Inventors & Innovators Requirements

Requirements

• Patent approved by UAE Ministry of Economy
  
• Innovation with market impact
  
• Recognition from international organizations
  

Documents

• Patent certificates
  
• Innovation portfolio
  

9. High-Net-Worth Individuals Requirements

Requirements

• Financial wealth records
  
• Investments in UAE assets
  
• Minimum capital holdings (varies by category)
  

10. CEO, Managers & Executives Requirements

Requirements

• Senior managerial role
  
• Salary of AED 50,000+
  
• Bachelor’s degree
  
• Experience of 5+ years
  

General UAE Golden Visa Document Requirements

All applicants must provide:

• Passport copy
  
• Passport-size photo
  
• Medical fitness certificate
  
• Emirates ID (if applicable)
  
• Background check
  
• Entry permit copy
  
• Visa status change proof
  

Application Process: Step-by-Step

1. Check eligibility

Match your profile with the official UAE Golden Visa requirements.

2. Gather documents

Ensure all items are complete, attested, and accurate.

3. Apply through official channels

• ICP Smart Services
  
• GDRFA Dubai
  

4. Complete medical test

Mandatory for all applicants.

5. Submit biometrics

Fingerprint scanning for Emirates ID.

6. Receive Golden Visa approval

Typically issued within 2–7 weeks.

7. Get your Emirates ID

Valid for 5 or 10 years.

Fees, Duration & Renewal Rules

Golden Visa Duration

• 10 years (most categories)
  
• 5 years (some categories)
  

Fees

• Between AED 2,800 – 4,000 depending on category
  
• Additional fees for medical test & Emirates ID
  

Renewal

• Renewed upon meeting category requirements
  
• No sponsor required
  

Benefits of Meeting UAE Golden Visa Requirements

• Long-term stability
  
• No need for employer sponsorship
  
• Unlimited stay outside UAE
  
• Sponsor family members of any age
  
• 100% business ownership
  
• Access to world-class healthcare
  
• Security in a growing economy
  

Common Mistakes Applicants Make

Submitting incomplete documents
Incorrect salary or job title classification
Missing attestation on degree certificates
Applying through the wrong visa category

FAQs

1. What is the minimum salary requirement for UAE Golden Visa?

AED 30,000+ for skilled professionals.

2. Can property investors buy off-plan units?

Yes, as long as the property value meets AED 2 million.

3. Can Golden Visa holders sponsor family?

Yes, including children with no age limit.

4. Is a medical test required?

Yes, for all Golden Visa applicants.

5. How long does approval take?

Typically between 2 to 7 weeks.

6. Can I apply online?

Yes, through GDRFA or ICP official portals.

Conclusion

Meeting the UAE Golden Visa requirements opens the door to long-term stability, financial growth, and career opportunities in one of the world’s most advanced nations. Whether you’re an investor, professional, student, entrepreneur, or scientist, the Golden Visa is designed to support your ambitions and secure your future in the UAE.