Everything you need to know about qualifying for the UAE’s 10-year Golden Visa investor thresholds, professional criteria, application steps, and costs.
Quick Answer: Who Qualifies for the UAE Golden Visa in 2026? The UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residence permit requiring no employer sponsor. Eligibility extends to investors (AED 2 million minimum in property, funds, or business capital), skilled professionals earning AED 30,000–50,000 per month with a bachelor’s degree, entrepreneurs with projects valued at AED 500,000+, doctors, scientists, inventors, creative professionals, and outstanding students with a 95%+ GPA or a 3.75+ university GPA. Applications are processed through the ICP or GDRFA portals, with total costs ranging from AED 4,000 to AED 6,500, depending on the category and emirate.
Introduction to the UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa represents the most significant immigration reform in the Emirates’ history. Launched in 2019 and expanded substantially through 2024 and 2025, this long-term residence programme eliminates the traditional requirement for employer sponsorship, granting qualified individuals unprecedented freedom to live, work, and invest in the UAE for a decade at a time.
Administered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, the Golden Visa programme targets investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional professionals, scientists, doctors, inventors, creative talents, and outstanding students. The programme supports the UAE’s strategic vision to attract and retain global talent and to diversify the economy beyond hydrocarbons.
This comprehensive guide details every eligibility pathway, required documentation, application procedures, costs, and benefits associated with the UAE Golden Visa in 2026. Whether you are considering property investment, seeking professional opportunities, or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures in the Emirates, this resource provides authoritative information to help you navigate the application process successfully.
Golden Visa Eligibility Categories
The UAE Golden Visa encompasses multiple distinct pathways, each with specific qualification criteria. The following table summarizes all eligible categories and their primary requirements.
| Category | Primary Requirement | Approval Authority |
| Investors (Property) | AED 2 million minimum property value | ICP/GDRFA |
| Investors (Fund/Capital) | AED 2 million in a UAE investment fund or business | ICP/GDRFA |
| Entrepreneurs | AED 500,000 project + incubator approval | Ministry of Economy |
| Skilled Professionals | AED 30,000-50,000/month salary + degree | MOHRE/ICP |
| Doctors | Medical license from the Ministry of Health | MoHAP |
| Scientists | Emirates Council of Scientists recommendation | Emirates Council |
| Inventors | UAE-approved patent with economic value | Ministry of Economy |
| Creative Professionals | Ministry of Culture approval | Ministry of Culture |
| Outstanding Students | 95%+ high school or 3.75+ university GPA | Ministry of Education |
Investor Golden Visa Requirements
The investor pathway remains the most popular route to the Golden Visa, accounting for over 60% of all applications. Three distinct investment channels qualify for the 10-year residence permit.
Property Investment Requirements
Real estate investors must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum property value of AED 2 million (approximately USD 545,000)
- Property must be located in a freehold area designated for foreign ownership
- Property can be residential, commercial, or mixed-use
- Multiple properties can be combined to reach the AED 2 million threshold
- Off-plan properties qualify if the developer holds escrow approval from RERA
- Mortgaged properties qualify, provided the equity portion meets the minimum threshold
- Property must be held for the duration of the visa (resale cancels eligibility)
Required documentation for property investors:
- Title deed(s) from the Dubai Land Department or the relevant emirate authority
- Property valuation certificate (if combining multiple properties)
- Valid passport with a minimum of 6 months’ validity
- Current UAE residence visa (if applying from within the UAE)
- Passport-sized photographs with a white background
- Bank statement confirming property purchase transactions
Eligible Investment Funds for UAE Golden Visa
The UAE does not publish an official pre-approved list of investment funds for Golden Visa eligibility. Instead, eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis by ICP and emirate authorities based on whether the fund meets regulatory requirements.
Fund Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Golden Visa purposes, an investment fund must meet the following criteria:
- Licensed and regulated by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA)
- Registered as a local investment fund operating in the UAE
- Capable of issuing an official letter confirming the deposit of AED 2 million or more
- Maintains compliance with UAE financial regulations
Types of Qualifying Investments
| Investment Type | Minimum Amount | Visa Duration |
| SCA-Licensed Investment Fund | AED 2,000,000 | 10 Years |
| Fixed Bank Deposit (UAE Bank) | AED 2,000,000 | 10 Years |
| Local Sukuk or Investment Bonds | AED 2,000,000 | 10 Years |
| Fixed Deposit (Age 55+) | AED 1,000,000 | 5 Years |
Accepted Investment Channels
Golden Visa applicants commonly use the following institutions and investment channels because they meet regulatory requirements:
Major UAE Banks Offering Golden Visa Fixed Deposits:
- Emirates NBD
- Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB)
- First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB)
- Mashreq Bank
- Dubai Islamic Bank
- Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB)
SCA-Regulated Asset Management Companies:
- Emirates NBD Asset Management
- Chimera Capital
- Al Mal Capital
- Arqaam Capital
- Shuaa Capital
- Waha Capital
Important: The UAE has officially clarified that cryptocurrency and digital asset investments do NOT qualify for Golden Visa eligibility. This was confirmed in a joint statement by ICP, SCA, and VARA in July 2025. Always verify fund eligibility with official sources before investing.
Investment Fund Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| Minimum Investment | AED 2,000,000 (approx. USD 545,000) |
| Investment Holding Period | Minimum 2 years; must be maintained throughout visa validity |
| Ownership | Capital must be wholly owned (not loan-financed) |
| Documentation Required | Letter from the fund confirming AED 2 million deposit |
| Fund Withdrawal | Not permitted during the Golden Visa validity period |
To verify if a specific investment fund qualifies, check the SCA website (sca.gov.ae ) for the list of licensed local investment funds, or contact ICP directly before making your investment.
Professional Golden Visa Requirements
Skilled professionals employed in the UAE may qualify for the Golden Visa based on salary, educational qualifications, and occupational classification. This pathway enables employees to maintain long-term Residence without being tied to any single employer.
| Requirement | Dubai | Other Emirates |
| Minimum Monthly Salary | AED 30,000 | AED 30,000-50,000 |
| Educational Qualification | Bachelor’s degree or higher | Bachelor’s degree or higher |
| Employment Status | Valid UAE employment contract | Valid UAE employment contract |
| Occupational Level | MOHRE Level 1-2 | MOHRE Level 1-2 |
Professional Golden Visa document requirements:
- Valid employment contract with a UAE-registered company
- Salary certificate from the employer confirming the minimum salary threshold
- Educational certificates attested by the UAE Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Emirates ID (for in-country applicants)
- Current residence visa copy
- Passport with a minimum of 6 months’ validity
- Professional license or certification (where applicable)
- CV or professional portfolio demonstrating expertise
Entrepreneur Golden Visa Requirements
Entrepreneurs seeking to establish or scale innovative ventures in the UAE can access the Golden Visa through the entrepreneurial pathway. This route requires project approval from an accredited business incubator and demonstration of viable business potential.
Entrepreneur eligibility criteria:
- Project ownership or co-ownership with a minimum value of AED 500,000
- Approval letter from a UAE-accredited business incubator
- Business plan demonstrating innovation and economic contribution
- Previous startup experience or relevant industry background
- Technical or management expertise in the proposed sector
Accredited business incubators include:
- Dubai Future Foundation (Area 2071)
- Hub71 (Abu Dhabi)
- Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa)
- in5 Innovation Centers
- DIFC Innovation Hub
- Mohammed bin Rashid Innovation Fund
Specialist Categories: Doctors, Scientists, and Inventors
Medical Professionals
Licensed physicians and medical specialists can obtain the Golden Visa through the healthcare pathway. In 2025, Dubai Health expanded eligibility to include nurses with 15 or more years of service.
- Valid medical license issued by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP)
- Approval letter from MoHAP confirming authorization to practice medicine in the UAE
- Board certification or specialist qualification from a recognized medical authority
- Employment contract with a UAE healthcare facility (public or private)
- For nurses: minimum 15 years of continuous service in Dubai Health facilities
Scientists and Researchers Golden Visa
Scientists and researchers contributing to knowledge advancement in priority sectors are eligible for the 10-year Golden Visa upon recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council or other designated authorities.
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
| Educational Qualification | Master’s or PhD in Engineering, Technology, Life Sciences, or Natural Sciences |
| University Ranking | Top 500 globally or Top 250 in the field (Ministry of Education list) |
| H-Index | Minimum 10 on Scopus/Web of Science |
| Field Weighted Citation Index | Minimum 1.0 FWCI |
| Degree Attestation | Equivalency certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education (mandatory) |
Exemption from H-Index and FWCI Requirements
Applicants with a Scopus H-index of 20 or higher, or those with proven achievements in building research and development sectors inside or outside the UAE, may be exempted from the standard H-index and FWCI requirements. This exemption requires a specific recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council.
Recommendation Authorities
Scientists must obtain a recommendation letter from one of the following authorities:
| Authority | Applicable For |
| Emirates Scientists Council | Primary authority for scientists and researchers across all fields |
| Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence Secretariat | Recipients of the Scientific Excellence Medal |
| Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology | Abu Dhabi applicants (sent automatically via ADRO webapp) |
| Dubai Future Foundation | Scientists working in future technologies and innovation |
Priority Research Fields
The UAE prioritizes scientists working in the following sectors:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Biotechnology and Genomics
- Renewable Energy and Sustainability
- Space Science and Aerospace Engineering
- Health Sciences and Medical Research
- Water Technology and Desalination
- Agriculture and Food Security
- Climate Science and Environmental Research
Application Process for Scientists
- Obtain a degree equivalency certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education for foreign qualifications.
- Prepare academic metrics documentation (Scopus profile showing H-index and FWCI)
- Submita nomination request to the Emirates Scientists Council or the relevant authority.
- Receive a recommendation letter upon approval.
- Apply for a Golden Visa through ICP Smart Services or the GDRFA Dubai portal.
- Upload a recommendation letter, passport, academic certificates, and research portfolio.o
- Pay processing fees (AED 1,100 base fee + AED 500 if applying from inside the UAE)
- Complete medical examination and Emirates ID biometrics upon approval
Required Documents for Scientists
- Valid passport with a minimum of 6 months’ validity
- Recommendation letter fromthe Emirates Scientists Council or equivalent authority
- Equivalency certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education
- Legalized academic transcripts (attested)
- Screenshot or link showing H-index (minimum 10) and FWCI (minimum 1.0)
- Employment contract (if employed in the UAE)
- Research publications list or portfolio
- Comprehensive health insurance for the applicant and family
December 2025 Update: Dubai applicants without a government nomination must now have held a MOHRE Level 1 or 2 job classification for at least 2 years before application. Equivalency certificates for foreign degrees are now mandatory for all applicants in the scientist category.
Inventors and Patent Holders
| Requirement | Description |
| Patent Approval | Patent registered with the UAE Ministry of Economy |
| Economic Value | Demonstrated added value to the UAE economy |
| International Recognition | Optional: patents registered in other jurisdictions |
| Recommendation Letter | Ministry of Economy endorsement letter |
| Prototype or Product | Evidence of practical application |
Creative Professionals and Cultural Talent
The UAE’s creative economy initiative supports long-term Residence for artists, filmmakers, musicians, writers, and cultural practitioners. The Creators HQ programme, launched in 2024, expanded access for digital content creators and influencers.
| Creative Field | Approval Authority | Key Requirements |
| Visual Arts | Ministry of Culture and Youth | Portfolio, exhibitions, awards |
| Performing Arts | Ministry of Culture and Youth | Performance history, recognition |
| Film and Television | Dubai Film and TV Commission | Production credits, awards |
| Literature | Ministry of Culture and Youth | Published works, translations |
| Digital Content | Creators HQ | Follower count, engagement metrics |
| Music | Ministry of Culture and Youth | Recordings, performances, awards |
Outstanding Students Golden Visa
Exceptional academic performers can secure long-term UAE residence through the student Golden Visa pathway. This category recognizes achievement at both secondary and tertiary levels.
| Student Category | Academic Requirement | Additional Criteria |
| High School Graduates | 95%+ final grade average | UAE-accredited secondary school |
| University Students | 3.75+ GPA | UAE-accredited university |
| Top University Graduates | Graduation from a Top 100 university | Ministry of Education ranking list |
| PhD Candidates | Enrollment in a doctoral programme | UAE-accredited institution |
Student Golden Visa document requirements:
- Official transcripts showing GPA or final grade percentage
- Graduation certificate or enrollment confirmation letter
- Passport with a minimum of 6 months’ validity
- Recommendation letter from an educational institution
- Ministry of Education accreditation verification
Golden Visa Application Process
The Golden Visa application process varies by category and location. Dubai residents apply through GDRFA, while applicants in other emirates use the ICP Smart Services portal. The following steps outline the standard application workflow.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Verify eligibility: Confirm qualification under one of the approved categories and provide the required documentation.
- Gather documents: Collect all required certificates, attestations, and supporting evidence.
- Submit nomination request: Complete the nomination form through the ICP or GDRFA portal (AED 350 fee).
- Await approval: Nomination review takes 5-15 working days, depending on category.
- Receive entry permit: Applicants outside the UAE receive a 6-month multiple-entry permit upon approval.
- Complete medical examination: Undergo fitness test at an approved UAE health center (AED 320).
- Apply for Emirates ID: Submit biometric data and a photograph at the ICP service center (AED 575).
- Obtain residence stamp: The final visa stamp is applied to the passport at the GDRFA or ICP office.
- Activate benefits: Access Golden Visa holder services, including consular protection.
Application Portals by Emirate
| Emirate | Portal | URL |
| Dubai | GDRFA Dubai | gdrfad.gov.ae |
| Abu Dhabi | ICP Smart Services | smartservices.icp.gov.ae |
| Sharjah | ICP Smart Services | smartservices.icp.gov.ae |
| Other Emirates | ICP Smart Services | smartservices.icp.gov.ae |
Golden Visa Costs and Fees
Total Golden Visa costs range from AED 4,000 to AED 6,500 depending on category, emirate, and processing speed. The following table itemizes standard fees applicable to most applicants.
| Fee Component | Amount (AED) | Notes |
| Application Fee | 2,800-4,800 | Varies by category and emirate |
| Nomination Request | 350 | Initial eligibility review |
| Medical Examination | 320 | DHA or approved center |
| Emirates ID | 575 | Biometric ID card issuance |
| Entry Permit (if abroad) | 1,250 | 6-month multiple entry |
| Typing and Service Fees | 200-500 | Amer centers or service agents |
| Health Insurance | 500-2,000+ | Annual premium (mandatory) |
Payment can be made through government portals using a credit or debit card or a UAE bank transfer. Some categories may incur additional attestation fees for educational documents (AED 150-500 per document).
Golden Visa Benefits
The Golden Visa confers significant advantages beyond standard UAE residence permits. These benefits extend to visa holders and their sponsored family members.
| Benefit | Description |
| 10-Year Residence | 10-Year Residence |
| Extended Absence | Stay outside the UAE beyond the 6-month limit without visa cancellation |
| Family Sponsorship | Sponsor spouse, children of any age, and domestic workers |
| Business Ownership | 100% ownership of mainland UAE companies |
| Consular Services | Access to UAE consular assistance and emergency support abroad |
| Emergency Evacuation | Humanitarian evacuation coverage through UAE missions |
| 24/7 Hotline | Dedicated global emergency support line |
| Visa Stability | No impact from employment changes or job loss |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum investment for the UAE Golden Visa?
The minimum investment is AED 2 million (approximately USD 545,000). This can be in real estate, an approved investment fund, or business capital. Property investments can combine multiple properties to reach the threshold. Entrepreneurs qualify with projects valued at a minimum of AED 500,000 and accredited incubator approval.
What salary is required for the Professional Golden Visa?
Skilled professionals need a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000 to AED 50,000, depending on the emirate. The requirement also includes a bachelor’s degree or higher and employment in MOHRE occupational levels 1-2. A valid UAE employment contract is mandatory.
Can I sponsor my family on a Golden Visa?
Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse and children of any age (unlike standard visas with age limits) and domestic workers. Unmarried daughters have no age limit. Children of determination can be sponsored regardless of age.
How long does Golden Visa processing take?
Processing times vary by category. Investor visas typically take 10-15 working days. Professional and specialist categories may take 15-30 days, depending on verification requirements. Express processing is available at an additional cost.
Is the Golden Visa renewable?
The 10-year Golden Visa is fully renewable, provided the eligibility criteria continue to be met. Property investors must maintain ownership. Professionals must maintain employment or transition to another qualifying category.
Can I stay outside the UAE on a Golden Visa?
Golden Visa holders can remain outside the UAE beyond the standard 6-month limit without losing residency status. Standard residence visas are cancelled if the holder stays outside the UAE for more than 6 consecutive months.
What GPA do students need for the Golden Visa?
High school students need a final grade average of 95% or higher. University students need a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Graduates from universities ranked in the global Top 100 by Ministry of Education criteria also qualify.
Do mortgaged properties qualify for the Golden Visa?
Mortgaged properties qualify, provided the equity portion (property value minus outstanding loan) meets the AED 2 million threshold. The property must be held for the duration of the visa; selling the property cancels Golden Visa eligibility.
Is there an official list of eligible investment funds for the Golden Visa?
No. The UAE does not publish a pre-approved list of funds for the Golden Visa. Eligibility is determined case-by-case based on whether the fund is licensed by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) and can issue a letter confirming your AED 2 million deposit. Central UAE banks such as Emirates NBD, ADCB, and FAB offer fixed deposit products that are accepted for Golden Visa applications. Always verify with ICP before investing.
How do I get a recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council?
Submit your academic credentials, research portfolio, and H-index/FWCI documentation through the ICP Smart Services portal or GDRFA Dubai. For Abu Dhabi applicants, applications through the Abu Dhabi Residents Office (ADRO) are automatically forwarded to the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology for review. Processing takes 2-4 weeks, depending on verification requirements.
What H-index is required for the Scientist’s Golden Visa?
Standard applicants need a minimum H-index of 10 and a Field Weighted Citation Index (FWCI) of 1.0 or higher. Applicants with a Scopus H-index of 20 or above, or those with proven achievements in building R&D sectors, may be exempted from these requirements with a special recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council.
Can I obtain a Golden Visa through a fixed deposit with a bank?
Yes. Depositing AED 2 million (USD 545,000) in a UAE national bank qualifies for the 10-year Golden Visa. The deposit must be held for at least 2 years and cannot be withdrawn during the visa validity period. Applicants aged 55 and above are eligible for a reduced deposit of AED 1 million for a 5-year Golden Visa. The bank will issue a confirmation letter for your visa application.
Do cryptocurrency investments qualify for the Golden Visa?
No. The ICP, SCA, and VARA issued a joint statement in July 2025 confirming that digital currency investments do not qualify for the Golden Visa. Only investments in real estate, SCA-licensed investment funds, UAE bank deposits, or licensed business ventures are accepted.
What is the real estate Golden Visa duration: 5 years or 10 years?
Real estate investments of AED 2 million or more qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa. For investors aged 55 and above, a property investment of AED 1 million qualifies for a 5-year visa. The property must be in a freehold area, can include off-plan units with RERA escrow approval, and mortgaged properties qualify if your equity meets the threshold.
Which authorities can recommend scientists for the Golden Visa?
Primary: Emirates Scientists Council. Alternatives: Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence Secretariat (for award recipients), Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (Abu Dhabi), Dubai Future Foundation (future technologies), or equivalent emirate-level scientific bodies.
Is the Golden Visa duration 5 or 10 years for public investment?
Public investments (investment funds, bank deposits, business capital) of AED 2 million qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa. This is different from real estate, where historically some 5-year options existed. As of 2026, the standard public investment route grants 10-year renewable residency.
Official Resources and Links
Verify all requirements and submit applications through official UAE government channels:
| Resource | Website | Purpose |
| UAE Official Portal | u.ae | General visa information |
| ICP Smart Services | smartservices.icp.gov.ae | Federal visa applications |
| GDRFA Dubai | gdrfad.gov.ae | Dubai visa services |
| MOHRE | mohre.gov.ae | Employment classification |
| Ministry of Economy | moet.gov.ae | Business and patent verification |
| Dubai Land Department | dubailand.gov.ae | Property title verification |
Contact information:
- ICP Toll-Free: 600 522 222
- GDRFA Dubai Amer Service: 800 5111
- MOHRE Call Center: 600 590 000
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and reflects regulations in effect as of January 2026. UAE visa policies are subject to change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official UAE government portals (u.ae, icp.gov.ae, gdrfad.gov.ae) before applying. Processing times, fees, and documentation requirements may vary by emirate and individual circumstances. This content does not constitute legal or immigration advice.
Last Updated: February 2026 | Sources: ICP, GDRFA Dubai, UAE Government Portal (u.ae), MOHRE
5 thoughts on “UAE Golden Visa Requirements 2026: Complete Eligibility Guide”