UAE Golden Visa 2026: Who Qualifies, How to Apply & What It Costs
Updated April 2026 · 10 min read · By Catalyst Services
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the UAE for 5 or 10 years — with the option to renew indefinitely. Since the programme was expanded in 2022, eligibility has widened significantly, making it accessible to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and even outstanding students.
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What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is not a citizenship programme — it is a long-term residency visa. It gives holders the right to live in the UAE without needing an employer or sponsor, sponsor family members (spouse, children, and parents), sponsor domestic helpers without limits, and stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months without losing residency status.
Golden Visa Categories in 2026
| Category | Minimum Requirement | Visa Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Real estate investor | AED 2M property (mortgaged accepted) | 10 years |
| Business investor | AED 2M capital investment | 10 years |
| Entrepreneur | Approved startup or AED 500K project | 5 years |
| Skilled professional | Salary AED 30,000+/month in priority sector | 10 years |
| Outstanding student | GPA 3.75+ or top 5% in UAE university | 5 years |
| Talented individual | Scientists, artists, athletes, doctors | 10 years |
Real Estate Investor Golden Visa
This is the most popular route for foreign investors. To qualify, you must own property worth at least AED 2 million. The property can be mortgaged — the bank confirms the paid-up value meets the threshold. Off-plan properties qualify if the developer confirms the paid-up portion is AED 2 million or more. Joint ownership is allowed if each owner's share is worth AED 2 million or more.
The property does not need to be in Dubai — properties in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and other emirates also qualify.
Business Investor Golden Visa
If you own or invest in a UAE company, you can qualify through a capital investment of AED 2 million in an existing or new UAE company, owning a company with a paid-up capital of AED 2 million confirmed by a licensed auditor, or partnering in a project with a total value of AED 2 million or more. This route is ideal for entrepreneurs who have set up a mainland or free zone company in the UAE.
Skilled Professional Golden Visa
Professionals in priority sectors — including healthcare, engineering, science, education, business, and technology — can qualify if their monthly salary is AED 30,000 or more, they hold a valid employment contract in the UAE, and they have a bachelor's degree or higher.
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Golden Visa Costs in 2026
| Fee Item | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Application fee (ICA) | AED 2,492 |
| Medical fitness test | AED 700 – 1,200 |
| Emirates ID (10-year) | AED 1,070 |
| Health insurance (mandatory) | AED 1,500 – 5,000/year |
| Typing and admin fees | AED 300 – 600 |
| Total (approx.) | AED 6,000 – 10,000 |
Family sponsorship adds approximately AED 2,000–3,500 per dependent (spouse, children, parents).
How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa
Confirm eligibility
Gather your supporting documents — property title deed, company registration, salary certificate, or academic credentials depending on your category.
Submit the application
Applications are submitted through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICA) portal at icp.gov.ae or through a registered typing centre.
Medical fitness test
Complete a medical test at an approved UAE health centre. Results are linked directly to your application.
Emirates ID biometrics
Visit an ICA service centre to complete biometric registration (fingerprints and photo).
Visa stamping
Your passport is stamped with the Golden Visa. The entire process typically takes 2–4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Golden Visa allow me to work in the UAE?
Yes. Golden Visa holders can work for any employer or run their own business without needing a separate work permit.
Can I sponsor my parents on a Golden Visa?
Yes — since 2022, Golden Visa holders can sponsor their parents as dependents, which was not possible under the standard residency visa.
Does the Golden Visa lead to UAE citizenship?
Not automatically. UAE citizenship is granted by presidential decree and is extremely rare. The Golden Visa is a long-term residency, not a citizenship pathway.
What happens if I sell my property after getting the Golden Visa?
If your Golden Visa is based on a property investment and you sell the property, you must reinvest in another qualifying property within 6 months or your visa may not be renewed.
Can I get a Golden Visa through a free zone company?
Yes — free zone companies with a paid-up capital of AED 2 million qualify for the business investor route.
Ready to set up your UAE company?
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