UAE Golden Visa: 5 Paths to 10-Year Residency Without Employment
Dubai has revised the Golden Visa requirements, reducing the down payment for property buyers seeking long-term residency permits.
The UAE's Golden Visa, launched in 2019, experienced a 52% increase in issuance during the first half of 2023, surpassing 150,000 visas by November 2022.
The 10-year visa offers benefits such as family sponsorship, including spouses, children, and unmarried daughters, with no age restrictions. Sponsored children of determination receive residence permits without age limitations. Professionals earning a monthly salary of Dh30,000 or more in healthcare, media, IT, and similar industries qualify for the Golden Visa.
Certain categories, however, allow individuals without jobs to apply for a 10-year visa. Here are five such categories:
Property Buyers:
Residents and foreign investors purchasing properties valued at Dh2 million or more are eligible. Dubai recently removed the Dh1 million down payment requirement while maintaining the Dh2 million minimum property value.
Cash Deposit:
High-net-worth individuals can deposit Dh2 million with a local bank for two years to qualify for the Golden Visa.
Entrepreneurs:
Entrepreneurs engaged in startups registered in the SMEs category with annual revenues exceeding Dh1 million can apply. Founders of previous projects sold for a total value of at least Dh7 million are also eligible, subject to the Ministry of Economy or local authorities' approval.
Scientists and researchers:
The Golden Visa is granted to scientists and researchers with significant achievements and influence, particularly in engineering, technology, life sciences, and natural sciences. A PhD or Master's Degree from top global universities, along with notable research achievements, is required.
Outstanding Students:
High-achieving students in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities or the top 100 universities worldwide can apply. Specific criteria include academic performance, graduation year, and university classification.
Dubai's move to enhance Golden Visa accessibility reflects a commitment to attracting and retaining diverse talent and fostering economic growth and innovation in the region.
