Procedural Guideline for Acquiring the UAE Golden Residency Permit
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced the Golden Visa program, a long-term residency opportunity that invites entrepreneurs, professionals, students, and investors to establish a life of possibilities in the UAE. Here's a step-by-step guide to navigating the application process.
Step 1: Eligibility
Eligibility for the UAE Golden Visa includes various categories, such as investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents, exceptional students, and real estate investors.
Step 2: Gathering Necessary Documents
Prepare a set of documents, including a copy of your passport, evidence of investment, business ownership documents, education or professional certification documents, and a medical fitness certificate.
Step 3: Submitting the Application
Applications can be submitted online through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) of Dubai, or through a UAE-approved typing centre for individual support.
Step 4: Payment of Fees
Fees for the Golden Visa application vary based on category and duration, ranging from AED 2,800 to AED 3,800, not including Emirates ID and medical test fees.
Step 5: Medical Fitness Test
A medical fitness test is required at an approved health centre, involving standard tests such as blood work and a chest X-ray.
Step 6: Approval and Collection
Upon approval, applicants will be notified and can collect their Golden Visa or arrange for delivery.
Step 7: Obtaining an Emirates ID
After securing the Golden Visa, obtaining an Emirates ID is necessary for everyday life in the UAE, as it is required for bank accounts, healthcare, and utilities, among other things.
The UAE Golden Visa: Attracting Top Talent
The UAE Golden Visa aims to attract top talent in industries like healthcare, technology, research, and business. The program includes family members in the residency, such as a spouse and children, and in certain cases, domestic staff.
The Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the UAE without a local sponsor. It offers space for growth and expansion for entrepreneurs, professionals, and students, making it an attractive option for those seeking stability and investment opportunities.
Expansion of the Golden Visa Program
Initially focusing on investors in real estate and business sectors, the Golden Visa program has since expanded to include more categories such as specialized talents and researchers. The naturalization (citizenship) process linked to the Golden Visa remains selective and is not automatic, aiming primarily to secure long-term residency rather than immediate citizenship.
Qualification Criteria
Real estate investors need to own property in the UAE valued at a minimum of AED 2 million to qualify for the Golden Visa. Investors need to put at least AED 10 million into public investments, companies, or real estate to qualify. Entrepreneurs must either own a project worth AED 500,000 or have approval from a recognized UAE business incubator. Exceptional students who are high-achieving at a UAE secondary school or university may also be eligible.
Contribution to Dubai's Development
The Golden Visa has contributed to Dubai's development as a hub for affluent expats seeking stability and investment opportunities. With its focus on attracting and retaining top talent, the program continues to play a significant role in the UAE's economic growth and development.
