UAE Immigration

Overview of the Golden Residence Program

The Golden Residence program is designed to attract and retain top talent, investors, and specialists across various sectors such as science, technology, arts, education, business, and healthcare. By providing such opportunities, the UAE not only nurtures a diverse community of innovators but also strengthens its position as a leader in multiple global industries.

Key Benefits of the Golden Residence Program

Long-Term Stay

Golden Residence holders enjoy a residency period ranging from 5 to 10 years. This extended stay offers expatriates and their families long-term security and stability in the UAE, making it easier to plan for the future.

Automatic Renewal

One of the key advantages of the Golden Residence is that it is automatically renewed upon the completion of the residency period, eliminating the need for frequent renewals and providing ease of stay without the typical administrative challenges.

No Local Sponsorship Required

Unlike traditional residency programs in the UAE, the Golden Residence allows expatriates to maintain their residency status without the need for a local sponsor. This offers greater autonomy and reduces dependency on a UAE-based sponsor, allowing for more flexibility in business and personal affairs.

Family Inclusion

The Golden Residence is family-friendly. Applicants across all eligible categories can sponsor their family members, including spouses, children, and in some cases, extended family members such as parents and siblings. This allows families to stay together, fostering a more comfortable and integrated lifestyle in the UAE.

Access to Business Opportunities

The program positions the UAE as a thriving business hub. With a long-term residency, Golden Residence holders have the opportunity to invest in the country, establish enterprises, and contribute to the UAE’s growing economy. It also supports their involvement in innovative projects and sectors that drive the country’s progress, particularly in technology, healthcare, and education.

Investors in Public Investments

The UAE offers a Golden Residency program designed for investors who wish to establish a long-term presence in the country. This program grants a 10-year residency without the need for a sponsor, making it a prime opportunity for investors involved in business ownership, partnerships, or substantial financial deposits in UAE banks.

This program offers numerous benefits, including tax advantages, long-term residency, access to the UAE’s strategic location and world-class infrastructure, and a thriving business environment. It provides investors with the flexibility and freedom to contribute to the UAE’s economy while enjoying all the advantages of living and operating within the country.

UAE Golden Visa for Real Estate Investors

Real estate investors are eligible to apply for the UAE Golden Visa, a long-term residency program, by meeting specific investment criteria. This provides real estate investors with the opportunity to secure long-term residency in the UAE while benefiting from the country’s thriving property market and favorable investment climate.

UAE Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs with innovative, technical, or futuristic project ideas can apply for the UAE Golden Visa, granting them long-term residency in the country.

This visa option offers entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to establish and grow their innovative businesses in the UAE, benefiting from a supportive environment for startups and cutting-edge projects.

Talented People Category for UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa program aims to attract extraordinary talent across a broad spectrum of fields, recognizing individuals who can contribute significantly to the country’s progress and development. The following categories of talented people are eligible for the Golden Visa:

Doctors and Scientists

Doctors and scientists play a crucial role in advancing healthcare, research, and technological innovation. Those with exceptional achievements in medicine, healthcare, and scientific research are highly valued.

Cultural, Art, and Innovation Professionals

This category covers individuals excelling in culture, art, and innovation. Whether it's artists in the visual arts, performers, musicians, or cultural leaders, individuals in this sector can be granted a Golden Visa with recommendations from the relevant authorities

Executive Directors

Top-tier executives, such as CEOs, Presidents, and other leadership positions, are also eligible for the UAE Golden Visa. These individuals contribute to the strategic direction, growth, and success of major businesses or organizations.

Specialists in the Field of Science and Athletes

This category includes a diverse range of talent. Specialists in science, including physicists, biotechnologists, engineers, and researchers in various fields, play a vital role in advancing technology and scientific knowledge in the UAE.

Athletes with exceptional achievements in their sport, as well as those who hold leadership roles in international sports organizations, are also eligible. The UAE supports top athletes who bring recognition and excellence to the country in global sporting arenas, fostering a thriving sports culture.

Holders of Doctoral Degrees and Specialists in Engineering & Science

The UAE Golden Visa seeks to attract these highly skilled professionals who can drive innovation, improve infrastructure, and contribute to scientific advancements in various sectors, such as technology, renewable energy, and construction.

Outstanding Students Category for UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa also offers a unique opportunity for outstanding students, providing long-term residency to those who have demonstrated academic excellence and potential. The Golden Visa offers two categories: High School Students and University Students, each with specific requirements and benefits.

High School Students

High school students who have shown exceptional academic performance and meet the following criteria are eligible for the UAE Golden Visa:

Recommendation Letter

The student must provide a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education, verifying their outstanding academic achievements.

Visa Duration

The visa is granted for a period of 5 years. However, if the student enrolls in a specialty college or university program that requires a study period of more than 5 years.

Sponsorship of Family

Outstanding high school students are permitted to sponsor their parents and siblings, subject to conditions and requirements set by the Federal Authority of Identity & Citizenship.

This program recognizes the potential of young students and supports them in furthering their education in the UAE, creating opportunities for them to thrive in an innovative and dynamic environment.

University Students

For university students who have achieved high academic standing, the UAE Golden Visa offers even longer-term residency with the following requirements and benefits

Recommendation Letter

The student must submit a recommendation letter from their university, stating that their GPA is no less than 3.8. This ensures that only the highest-achieving students are granted the visa.

Visa Duration

The Golden Visa for university students is valid for 10 years, reflecting the student's long-term potential in contributing to the country’s academic and professional landscape.

Sponsorship of Family

University students holding the Golden Visa may sponsor their parents and siblings (subject to the conditions set out by the Federal Authority of Identity & Citizenship). In addition, students can sponsor their spouse and children, as long as they meet the financial requirements.

Family Sponsorship Flexibility

The student can sponsor their family when they have the financial means to do so, offering greater flexibility to ensure family unity while pursuing academic goals.

The UAE Golden Visa for Outstanding Students is designed to attract the brightest minds to the country, fostering a generation of leaders, innovators, and professionals.

Specialists in Engineering & Science

The UAE Golden Visa program seeks to attract highly skilled professionals in cutting-edge fields of engineering and science. Eligible specialists include:

Epidemiology and Viruses

Experts in public health, disease control, and pandemic response.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Professionals working on AI technology, machine learning, and its applications across various industries.

Big Data

Specialists in data analytics, data science, and the management of large-scale datasets.

Computer Engineering

Engineers focused on designing and developing computer systems, hardware, and software.

Electronic Engineering

Experts in the development and maintenance of electronic systems and devices.

Software Engineering

Professionals designing, developing, and maintaining software applications and systems.

Electrical Engineering

Engineers specializing in electrical systems, power generation, and electronics.

Genetic Engineering

Specialists involved in the manipulation of genetic material for medical, agricultural, or industrial purposes.

These experts play a key role in driving technological and scientific advancements in the UAE, contributing to the country’s ambitions of becoming a global hub for innovation.

Distinguished & Tangible Artistic Productio

The UAE is dedicated to fostering talent in the arts and culture. The Golden Visa is available for individuals with distinguished contributions in artistic fields, whether locally or internationally. Eligible categories include:

Visual Arts

Experts in public health, disease control, and pandemic response.

Publishing

Authors, writers, and editors producing outstanding works in literature, journalism, and digital publishing.

Performing Arts

Individuals excelling in dance, music, theater, and other performance-based art forms.

Design & Crafts

Designers and craftsmen involved in innovative and culturally significant design work.

Games & E-Sports

Professionals contributing to the growing gaming industry or excelling in competitive e-sports.

Media

Artists, directors, and producers working in film, television, digital content, and other media sectors.

These experts play a key role in driving technological and scientific advancements in the UAE, contributing to the country’s ambitions of becoming a global hub for innovation.

Innovators with Patents

Innovators who hold patents that add value to the UAE’s economy are eligible for the Golden Visa. This category includes individuals who have developed new technologies, inventions, or solutions that can positively impact key industries such as technology, healthcare, renewable energy, or manufacturing.

CEOs/Presidents in Private & Public Sectors

Top executives and organizational leaders in both private and public sectors in the UAE are eligible for the Golden Visa. Requirements include:

Bachelor’s Degree

A recognized university degree.

Valid Employment Contract

A current employment contract with a company or organization in the UAE.

Monthly Salary of 30,000 AED

A minimum monthly salary of 30,000 AED.

Skill Labor Classification

The individual must be classified in the first or second professional skill level, as approved by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

This category is aimed at attracting experienced leaders who can make significant contributions to the UAE’s business landscape and economic growth.

Specialists in Rare Educational Fields of Priority in the UAE

The UAE Golden Visa is also available for specialists in educational fields that are of high priority for the country’s development. Eligible individuals must:

Bachelor’s Degree

Hold a bachelor’s degree in one of the priority fields, which include education, training, and the care of people of determination (individuals with disabilities).

Specializations

Specialize in fields such as athletics (athletes, coaches, referees), healthcare (doctors, therapists), and public sector figures with tangible sporting achievements in the UAE or abroad.

This category supports the UAE’s vision of enhancing its educational system, healthcare services, and sports sectors by attracting top professionals with the expertise to contribute to these priority fields.

Pioneers of Humanitarian Work

Individuals who have made significant contributions to humanitarian efforts can also apply for the Golden Visa. This category includes:

Members of International & Regional Organizations

Individuals who have worked for distinguished organizations with a focus on humanitarian work for no less than 5 years.

Humanitarian Volunteers

Those who have volunteered for at least 500 hours of humanitarian work.

Financial Supporters

Individuals who have contributed financially to humanitarian efforts, with a minimum donation of 2,000,000 AED or its equivalent.

This category aims to recognize and reward those who have dedicated their careers or resources to making a positive impact in the UAE and globally, supporting the nation’s values of kindness, giving, and global responsibility.

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