Golden visa
The Golden visa is a long-term residence visa which enables foreign talents to live, work or study in the UAE while enjoying exclusive benefits. Investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes are among those eligible for the Golden visa. Read about the requirements and benefits of the Golden visa, and find digital services to apply for it.
What is the Golden visa?
The UAE’s ‘Golden visa’ is a long-term residence visa which enables foreign talents to live, work or study in the UAE while enjoying exclusive benefits which include:
- a long-term, renewable residence visa valid for 5 or 10 years
- the privilege of not needing a sponsor
- the ability to stay outside the UAE for more than the usual period of six months needed to keep their residence visa valid
- the ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children.
Related links
- UAE Cabinet approves Executive Regulations of Federal Decree-Law on Entry and Residence of Foreigners - WAM
- Golden Residency - Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security
- Golden visa in Abu Dhabi – TAMM
- Discover the golden visa and its categories - Abu Dhabi Residents Office
Eligible categories
The table below explains the categories that are eligible for a Golden visa. It also explains the duration of the visa they may get, and the conditions they need to fulfil.
| Category | Residency Duration | Main Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Investors (in public investments or real estate) |
|
Minimum capital of AED 2 million; property ownership or contribution to an establishment paying at least AED 250,000 annually in taxes |
| Entrepreneurs | 5 years | Proof of innovative or technical projects, documents proving project value, letter from a business incubator or relevant authority in the emirate |
| Those with exceptional talent or rare specialisations | 10 years |
|
| Outstanding students |
|
Certificates of excellence, recommendation letters from school or university |
| Humanitarian pioneers and Frontline Heroes | 10 years | Certificates of appreciation, humanitarian contribution documentation, or at least 5 years of service |
Source: ICP
Updated on:
26 Feb 2026
