10-Year UAE Residency The Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa offers the most secure long-term residency in the region — 10 years, no minimum stay requirement, extended family sponsorship, and the freedom to work anywhere.
The longest-duration UAE residence visa available — with no mandatory minimum days per year and the ability to sponsor your entire immediate family.
Four Ways to Qualify
Business Investor
Investment of AED 2 million+ in UAE business capital or real estate
- AED 2M+ investment in company share capital
- OR AED 2M+ in UAE real estate
- Investment must be maintained throughout visa validity
Entrepreneur
Ownership of a startup or project valued at AED 500,000 minimum
- Innovative project valued AED 500,000+
- Approval from an accredited UAE business incubator
- OR previous startup worth AED 500,000+
Skilled Professional
Doctors, engineers, scientists, and other exceptional talent
- Priority professional in their field
- Active employment in UAE
- Monthly salary AED 30,000+
- Endorsed by UAE ministry
Outstanding Student
High achievers in UAE universities with 3.75+ GPA
- UAE or international top-100 university
- GPA of 3.75 or equivalent
- Must apply within 6 months of graduation
Golden Visa vs Standard Investor Visa
| Feature | Golden Visa | Standard Investor |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Duration | 10 years (renewable) | 2–3 years (renewable) |
| Residence Requirement | No minimum days required | Must visit UAE every 6 months |
| Family Sponsorship | Spouse, children (any age), parents | Spouse, children under 18 |
| Domestic Staff | Can sponsor unlimited domestic staff | Subject to standard quotas |
| Business Flexibility | Can work for any employer | Tied to sponsoring company |
| Eligibility Cost | AED 2M+ investment | Company ownership any % |
| Processing Time | 4–6 weeks | 2–3 weeks |
Golden Visa in 4 Steps
Eligibility Assessment
We review your investment, company valuation, or professional credentials against ICA criteria
Document Compilation
Gather investment proof, company documents, professional certificates, or university transcripts
ICA Application
Formal application submitted to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security
Approval & Stamping
Golden Visa approval issued; visa stamped and Emirates ID updated to reflect 10-year status
Golden Visa FAQs
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residence visa introduced in 2019. It provides long-term residency for exceptional investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and academic achievers. Unlike standard visas, Golden Visa holders are not required to maintain a minimum number of days in the UAE.
Can I apply for a Golden Visa through my UAE company?
Yes, if your company has paid-up capital of AED 2 million or more, you qualify under the business investor route. Arab First can assess your current company structure and advise on how to meet the capital requirements if needed.
Do I need to be a UAE resident first to apply for a Golden Visa?
No. Golden Visa applications can be processed directly without holding a prior UAE residence visa. If you are applying from abroad, Arab First handles the application remotely and prepares all documentation for the stamping visit.
Can I sponsor my family on a Golden Visa?
Yes. Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children of any age (including adult children), and parents. Unlike standard investor visas, there is no age restriction on children and no income threshold for spousal sponsorship.
Can I work for a UAE employer on a Golden Visa?
Yes. Golden Visa holders are not tied to a specific employer — they can work for any UAE company or run their own business. This gives significantly more flexibility than a standard employment visa.
What happens if my investment drops below AED 2 million?
Your Golden Visa remains valid for its full 10-year term. However, at renewal, you will need to demonstrate that you continue to meet the eligibility criteria. Arab First monitors renewal timelines and advises on maintaining eligibility well before the renewal date.
Apply for Golden Visa UAE Residency
10-year UAE residency for investors and professionals. Fill the form and our team will assess your eligibility.