UAE Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs & Investors: Complete 2025 Guide
Checked against official FTA, ZATCA, MoF and MISA sources
Who qualifies, what it costs, and how long it takes. Everything you need to know about the UAE 10-year Golden Visa.
The UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residency that provides long-term stability for entrepreneurs, investors, professionals, and their families — without the need for an employer or local sponsor.
Who Qualifies?
Real Estate Investors Own property worth AED 2 million (USD 544,000) or more. The property can be mortgaged, provided the paid portion meets the threshold. Joint ownership may qualify if each party's share reaches the minimum.
Company Owners & Entrepreneurs Founders of a UAE-registered company with a minimum capital of AED 500,000 qualify, as do entrepreneurs whose startups are valued above AED 500,000 by an approved incubator.
Senior Professionals & Specialists Doctors, engineers, scientists, and specialists with a valid UAE employment contract, a salary of AED 30,000 or more per month, and relevant professional memberships.
Outstanding Students UAE high school graduates with a grade of 95% or above, and university graduates with a GPA of 3.75 or above from accredited institutions.
What Does It Include?
- 10-year residency for the Golden Visa holder - Residency for spouse, children (regardless of age), and domestic helpers - No sponsor required — you are your own sponsor - Ability to stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months without visa cancellation - UAE bank accounts, driving licence, and health insurance under your own name
How Long Does It Take?
From application to issuance typically takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the category and whether supporting documents (NOC letters, property valuations, company valuations) are already in order. Working with a licensed immigration consultant significantly reduces errors and delays.
Key Costs to Budget
Costs vary by emirate and category, but expect to budget AED 3,500 – 7,000 in government fees per person (excluding property valuations, medical tests, and Emirates ID fees). A consultant's facilitation fee is additional.
ISZ Global works with licensed visa and immigration consultants in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah who handle Golden Visa applications end-to-end. Browse our directory to get in touch directly.
About the author
Checked against official FTA, ZATCA, MoF and MISA sources
Articles are researched and written by the ISZ Global team and checked against official sources such as the FTA, ZATCA, the UAE Ministry of Finance and MISA before publication. They are general guidance, not professional advice — speak to a licensed adviser about your own situation.
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