Date published: 12.09.2025
This article explains how the UAE Golden Visa works in 2025, who can apply, its benefits, and the updated application process for expats.
If you're considering living long-term in the UAE, the Golden Visa is one of the best residency options available in 2025. It provides stability, flexibility, and access to various privileges for those who qualify. Below is an updated guide to help expats understand how the Golden Visa works, who can apply, and what to expect.
What Is the Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit (5 or 10 years) issued by the UAE government. Unlike short-term visas, it does not require a local sponsor, and it allows holders to live, work, or study in the UAE while enjoying certain rights that non-sponsored visas don’t provide.
Who Can Apply for the Golden Visa
There are several categories of applicants:
- Investors: Investments of at least AED 2 million in an approved public fund or ownership of a fully owned business. Funds must be personal, not loaned.
- Real Estate Owners: Residential or commercial property worth at least AED 2 million, fully owned by the applicant.
- Entrepreneurs: A project valued at AED 500,000 or more, approved by a recognized business incubator.
- Specialized Talents & Professionals: Doctors, engineers, scientists, inventors, and creative professionals with proven experience and achievements.
- Outstanding Students & Graduates: Applicants with excellent academic performance and recommendations from accredited educational institutions.
Key Benefits of Holding the Golden Visa
Once you obtain the Golden Visa, you can expect advantages like:
- Long residency (5 or 10 years), which you can renew if you continue meeting criteria.
- Sponsoring family members: spouse, children, and in many cases domestic helpers.
- Ability to stay outside the UAE for longer periods without losing residency.
- No requirement for a local sponsor
- Enhanced access to governmental services, education, health care under favorable conditions.
Application Process & Practical Tips
Here’s a general roadmap for applying, along with practical advice:
- Determine the correct category: Match your profile (investor, talent, etc.) to available Golden Visa paths.
- Collect documents early: Passport (valid for 6+ months), proof of funds or investment, health insurance, academic records, letters of endorsement. Ensure translations and attestations if required.
- Apply through official channels: UAE’s government portals (ICP, or the emirate-specific authorities). Avoid third-party offers that claim shortcuts.
- Medical / biometric checks: These are needed to assess health fitness and identity verification.
- Submit fees & pay attention to renewals: There are visa fees, Emirates ID fees, and other administrative costs. Be aware of renewal requirements to maintain Golden Visa status.
What’s New / Updated in 2025
- “One-Touch” Golden Visa service — streamlined process combining application, renewal, and documentation in fewer steps. u.ae
- More clarity on investment ownership — fully owned capital (not loaned) is strictly required.
- Highlights on special talent categories, especially in sectors like AI, science, health, culture and arts. Applicants with strong credentials in these areas often have more lenient paths or priority.
Common Myths & Things to Avoid
- There is no lifetime Golden Visa for any nationality under standard rules. ICP has made official statements denying claims about lifetime visas.
- Beware of fake agencies offering guaranteed or fast-track visas for large fees. Only official channels are authorized.
- Don’t assume minimal property investment is enough — condition is more complex: full ownership, proof of value, etc.
If you are an investor, entrepreneur, or someone with exceptional professional or academic achievement, the Golden Visa is definitely worth exploring. If your profile is more standard (non-investor, non-talent), still possible but requires meeting stricter criteria or exploring other visa types.
