UAE Golden Visa for Investors and Entrepreneurs: Complete Application Timeline

The UAE Golden Visa offers a host of privileges designed to empower investors and entrepreneurs seeking long-term growth in the region:

• Long-Term Residency – Receive a renewable 5- or 10-year residence permit without the need for a local sponsor.
  
  
• 100% Business Ownership – Maintain full control of mainland companies, removing the requirement for Emirati partnership.
  
  
• Family Sponsorship – Sponsor your spouse, children, and domestic staff under the same visa, ensuring stability for the entire household.
  
  
• Ease of Travel – Enjoy multiple entries and re-entries, allowing you to travel freely without affecting visa status.
  
  
• Access to Leading Markets – Operate within one of the world’s most dynamic economic hubs with access to regional and global markets.
  
  
• Real Estate and Investment Opportunities – Benefit from attractive investment options across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Emirates.
  
  
• Education and Healthcare Advantages – Access world-class schools, universities, and healthcare facilities across the UAE.
  
  
• Pathway to Stability and Growth – Build long-term business and lifestyle plans with security, continuity, and international credibility.

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A.Investors

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Property Investors:

Property investment is one of the most popular ways to qualify for a 5-year UAE Golden Visa. To be eligible:

• The investor must own property worth at least AED 2 million.
• The property must be fully paid, with no outstanding mortgage, and located in one of the designated freehold areas approved by the government.
• The investment must be retained for at least 3 years.

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        Key Benefits for Property Investors:

• Freedom to live, work, and invest in real estate without needing to renew a visa frequently.
• The ability to rent out the property for income purposes, further enhancing return on investment.
• Property investors can sponsor their immediate family members.

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Business Investors:

Investors looking to contribute to the UAE economy through capital injection can also qualify for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa. To be eligible:

• The applicant must invest at least AED 10 million in UAE-based companies or business ventures.
• The investment can take the form of starting a business, acquiring shares in an existing company, or placing capital in an investment fund.
• At least 60% of the investment should be in non-real estate sectors.
• The investor must hold the investment for at least 3 years.

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        Key Benefits for Business Investors:

• 10 years of renewable residency, offering long-term stability in the UAE.
• Complete control over business operations and freedom to reinvest profits.
• Sponsorship of family members, employees, and domestic workers.

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B. Entrepreneurs

To qualify for the 5-year entrepreneur Golden Visa:

• You must establish a new business or have an existing startup with a minimum capital of AED 500,000.
• Alternatively, your startup should be recognised and supported by an approved UAE business incubator or accelerator.
• The entrepreneur must provide a business plan and demonstrate their role as a key player in the business.

Key Benefits for Entrepreneurs:

• 5 years of residency to focus on building and expanding your business.
• Access to UAE's entrepreneurial ecosystem, including government-backed incubators and funding opportunities.
• The ability to sponsor family members under the Golden Visa.
• Opportunities to network with other entrepreneurs in the UAE’s rapidly growing innovation hubs.

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C. Skilled Professionals

To be eligible for the 10-year visa, professionals must meet the following criteria:

• Hold an advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in a relevant field, such as medicine, engineering, IT, or life sciences.
• Earn a monthly salary of at least AED 30,000.
• Hold a valid employment contract in the UAE in one of the priority sectors, including healthcare, education, technology, or research.
• Obtain accreditation from the relevant UAE authority for their qualifications.

Key Benefits for Skilled Professionals:

• 10-year visa offering long-term stability and the chance to build a career in the UAE.
• No need for local sponsorship, ensuring freedom to work for multiple employers or set up a consultancy.
• Sponsorship of family members and dependents, providing peace of mind for professionals with families.

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D. Exceptional Talents

To be eligible for the 10-year Golden Visa, individuals must:

• Have a proven track record of outstanding achievement in their field, such as winning major international awards or making significant contributions to their industry.
• Be endorsed by a recognised UAE body in the relevant sector, such as the Ministry of Culture or relevant academic institutions.

Key Benefits for Exceptional Talents:

• No need for employment or a local sponsor, providing freedom to pursue projects independently.
• Long-term residency offers stability to focus on professional growth and creative endeavours.
• Sponsorship of family members, ensuring they can live and thrive in the UAE.

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Applying for the UAE Golden Visa is a straightforward process, and the government has streamlined the procedure to make it easily accessible online. Below are the key stages:

1. Determine Eligibility – Review the available visa categories (Investor, Entrepreneur, Professional, or Special Talent) and ensure that you meet the specific criteria for your chosen category.
   
   
2. Prepare Required Documents – Gather all necessary documentation, such as proof of investment, property ownership, business licences, audited financial statements, or academic certificates, depending on the route you’re applying through.
   
   
3. Submit Your Application Online – Applications can be submitted via the UAEICP portal or the GDRFA website for Dubai residents. Complete the form, upload the required files, and pay the applicable visa fees.
   
   
4. Application Review & Approval – The authorities will evaluate your submission, and you may be contacted to provide additional details or verification documents.
   
   
5. Receive Your Golden Visa – Once approved, you will be issued your residence visa (typically valid for 5 or 10 years), granting you long-term residency and the associated privileges.

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If you're ready to step into the UAE’s dynamic freelance scene but unsure which visa suits you best, Tech Nomads is here to guide you. We offer tailored support to help you apply for the Green Visa or Freelance Permit—ensuring a smooth journey toward living, working, and growing your career in one of the world’s most forward-thinking hubs.

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