What Is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that allows holders to live, work, and study in the UAE without a local sponsor. Introduced in 2019 and significantly expanded in 2022, it grants 5 or 10-year renewable residency to qualifying individuals and their families.

Unlike a standard UAE residence visa — which is tied to an employer and expires when you leave a job — the Golden Visa is independent. You hold it in your own right, regardless of employment status.

Who Qualifies in 2026?

The UAE has expanded eligibility considerably since 2022. The main categories as of 2026 are:

What Does the UAE Golden Visa Cost in 2026?

The total cost varies by visa type, applicant category, and whether you apply inside or outside the UAE. The breakdown below covers a standard 10-year Golden Visa applied for inside the UAE.

Each dependant (spouse or child) carries similar costs. For a family of four, budget approximately AED 18,000–22,000 for the full application.

Documents You'll Need

Requirements vary by category, but these documents are required for almost all Golden Visa applications:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Passport-size photographs (white background)
• Current UAE residence visa or entry stamp
• Medical fitness certificate (from an approved UAE centre)
• Emirates ID (existing, or applied for as part of the process)
• Proof of eligibility category (e.g. property title deed, employment contract, business licence, degree certificate)

Property investors additionally need:

• Title deed showing property value of AED 2M+
• DLD (Dubai Land Department) valuation letter if value is close to the threshold
• Mortgage statement if property is financed (showing AED 2M already paid)

How to Apply — Step by Step

1. 1
   Confirm your eligibility category. Review the ICA website or consult a registered UAE immigration consultant. The category determines which documents you need and which portal you apply through.
2. 2
   Complete your medical fitness test. Book through any MOHAP-approved health centre. Results are typically ready within 24–48 hours.
3. 3
   Apply through ICA Smart Services or an approved typing centre. Most applicants use a typing centre (cost: AED 150–300) rather than applying directly online. They handle document submission and follow-ups.
4. 4
   Pay the fees. ICA fees are paid online at the time of application. Emirates ID fees are separate and paid to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
5. 5
   Collect your Emirates ID. Once the application is approved (typically 5–10 business days), collect your new Emirates ID from the designated ICA centre or have it delivered.
6. 6
   Add dependants. Spouse and children can be added immediately after your visa is issued. Each requires their own application, medical test, and Emirates ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for a Golden Visa while on a tourist visa?

Yes — you can apply from inside the UAE on a visit visa or tourist visa, but you'll pay a status change fee (AED 640). Applying while on an active employment visa is also possible and often more straightforward.

Does the Golden Visa replace my employment visa?

Yes. Once your Golden Visa is issued, it replaces your employer-sponsored residence visa. You no longer need your employer's sponsorship to live in the UAE.

What happens if I leave the UAE for more than 6 months?

One of the key benefits of the Golden Visa is that it does not expire if you stay outside the UAE for extended periods — unlike a standard visa, which can lapse after 6 months abroad.

Can I work for any employer on a Golden Visa?

Yes. The Golden Visa allows you to work for any UAE employer without needing a separate work permit or NOC (No Objection Certificate) from a previous employer.

Is the AED 2 million property threshold based on market value or purchase price?

It is based on current market value as assessed by the relevant land department, not your original purchase price. If your property has appreciated, you may now qualify even if you paid less than AED 2M.

Quick Reference Summary

Detail	Information
Visa duration	5 years or 10 years (renewable)
Sponsorship required	No — self-sponsored
Family included	Yes — spouse and children
Can leave UAE for extended periods	Yes — no 6-month restriction
Work any job	Yes — no employer restriction
Approx. cost (single applicant)	AED 5,000 – 5,600
Processing time	5–10 business days (typically)
Apply through	ICA Smart Services or typing centre