The UAE Golden Visa continues to evolve, offering expanded opportunities for global talent, investors, and professionals seeking long-term residency in one of the world’s most dynamic economies. With significant updates rolled out in 2025 and continuing into 2026, the program has become more inclusive than ever before.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the UAE Golden Visa in 2026, including the latest eligibility categories, application procedures, and the benefits that make this visa one of the most sought-after residency programs globally.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is a long-term renewable residence visa that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the United Arab Emirates without requiring a local sponsor. This self-sponsored residency program offers exceptional flexibility and security for holders and their families.
Key features of the Golden Visa include:
- Validity period of 5 or 10 years, depending on your category
- Automatic renewal upon meeting continued eligibility requirements
- Six-month multiple-entry visa to facilitate the residence issuance process
- No sponsor requirement, providing complete independence
- Extended stay allowance outside the UAE without affecting visa validity
- Family sponsorship rights for spouse, children, and in some cases, parents
- Continued residency rights for family members even if the primary holder passes away
The program was launched in 2019 as part of the UAE’s strategic vision to attract and retain global talent, drive economic growth, and position the country as a leading international hub for innovation and investment.
Major Updates: New Categories Added in 2025
The UAE significantly expanded its Golden Visa program throughout 2025, introducing five new professional categories that reflect the country’s commitment to diversifying its economy and recognizing contributions across multiple sectors.
Healthcare Professionals – Nurses
As of May 12, 2025, nurses who have served with Dubai Health for over 15 years are now eligible for a 10-year Golden Visa. This initiative, announced under the directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, recognizes the invaluable contributions of nursing professionals to the community and their crucial role in advancing healthcare services.
Eligibility requirements:
- Minimum 15 years of continuous service with Dubai Health or recognized UAE healthcare facilities
- Employment verification from Dubai Health or equivalent authority
- Valid professional licensing
- Family sponsorship rights included
Educators and Academic Professionals
Private education professionals in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah can now qualify for the Golden Visa based on academic excellence and contributions to the education sector. This category targets teachers, principals, and university faculty members who have demonstrated outstanding performance.
Eligibility requirements:
- Employment at private schools, early childhood centers, or universities
- Certificate of recognition from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai or the Department of Knowledge (RAK DOK) in Ras Al Khaimah
- Proven track record of academic excellence and positive impact on the educational community
- Family sponsorship rights included
Digital Content Creators
Following the 1 Billion Followers Summit in January 2025, the UAE introduced a Golden Visa category specifically for content creators. This initiative positions the UAE as a global hub for digital innovation and creative industries.
Eligible professionals include:
- Social media influencers
- Filmmakers and video producers
- Podcasters
- Digital marketers
- Visual artists
- YouTubers and content creators across platforms
Application process:
- Apply through the Creators HQ website (established to support up to 10,000 online personalities)
- Demonstrate a proven track record of impactful or creative work
- Show strong potential for contributing to the UAE’s creative community
- No local sponsor required
- Valid media or influencer license may be required
E-Sports Professionals and Gaming Industry Experts
Recognizing the growing importance of the gaming and e-sports industry, the UAE now offers Golden Visa opportunities for qualified professionals in this sector.
Eligibility requirements:
- Minimum age of 25 years
- Accreditation from Dubai Culture or Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT)
- Professional roles in gaming, including e-sports athletes, game developers, streamers, and industry investors
Luxury Yacht Owners and Maritime Executives
Abu Dhabi’s Golden Quay program offers Golden Visas to luxury yacht owners and executives in yacht-related industries, supporting the UAE’s maritime tourism and premium leisure sector.
Eligibility requirements:
- Ownership of luxury yachts measuring at least 40 meters in length
- Executive roles in yacht manufacturing, insurance, brokerage, or related maritime industries
- Proof of vessel ownership and investment documentation
Comprehensive Eligibility Categories for 2026
In addition to the five new categories introduced in 2025, the Golden Visa program maintains eligibility for traditional categories that have been the foundation of the program since its inception.
Investors
Public Investment Category (10-year visa):
- Minimum investment of AED 2 million in an approved investment fund
- Letter from an accredited UAE investment fund confirming the deposit
- Proof of full ownership (investment cannot be financed through loans)
- Valid health insurance for applicant and family members
Commercial and Industrial Investment:
- Valid commercial or industrial license
- Company Articles of Association showing capital of not less than AED 2 million
- Proof of residence in the UAE (property ownership or tenancy contract)
Tax-Based Investment:
- Letter from the Federal Tax Authority confirming annual tax payment of at least AED 250,000
Real Estate Investors (10-year visa):
- Property ownership valued at a minimum of AED 2 million
- Property can be purchased outright or financed through approved local banks only
- Title deed from the Real Estate Registration Department
- Proof of residence in the UAE
Important note: The AED 2 million property threshold applies at the time of purchase. The investment must be maintained throughout the visa validity period.
Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs can qualify for a 5-year Golden Visa by demonstrating ownership of an innovative project with economic potential.
Requirements:
- Ownership of a project of technical or future nature valued at minimum AED 500,000
- Auditor’s approval letter confirming project value
- Approval from relevant emirate authorities confirming the project’s innovative and technological nature
- Endorsement from an accredited business incubator in the UAE
- Valid passport and proof of UAE residence
Outstanding Specialized Talents and Professionals
This broad category encompasses multiple professional fields, each with specific requirements.
Doctors:
- Approval letter from the Ministry of Health and Prevention to practice medicine in the UAE
- Minimum 5 years of experience in specialized field (requirements may vary)
- Valid professional license
Scientists and Researchers:
- Recommendation letter from the Emirates Council of Scientists
- Recognition from the Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence Secretariat
- Documented achievements and contributions to scientific fields
Inventors:
- Recommendation letter from the Ministry of Economy
- Patent confirmation showing the invention adds value to the UAE economy
- Documentation of intellectual property rights
Creative Professionals in Culture and Arts:
- Approval letter from the Ministry of Culture and Youth or Department of Culture and Arts in respective emirates
- Portfolio demonstrating creative achievements
- Recognition from relevant cultural authorities
Executive Directors and Senior Management:
- University degree accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education (minimum bachelor’s degree)
- Minimum 5 years of experience in executive position
- Employment contract and salary certificate showing monthly salary of at least AED 50,000
- Valid passport copy
Athletes:
- Recommendation letter from the General Sports Authority or recognized sports councils
- Documented achievements in sports at national or international level
Specialists in Engineering, Science, and Priority Fields:
- Accredited PhD or university degree
- Employment contract in the UAE
- Minimum qualifications as determined by relevant authorities
- Valid professional licensing where required
Skilled Professionals
Professionals earning a high salary can qualify based on their income level.
Requirements:
- Valid employment contract in the UAE
- Salary certificate showing monthly income of at least AED 30,000 (Abu Dhabi and other emirates may have specific thresholds)
- Bank statements for the past 6 months confirming consistent salary
- Valid practicing license for regulated professions (doctors, pharmacists, teachers, etc.)
- University degree accredited by the Ministry of Education
Outstanding Students and Graduates
The Golden Visa program offers opportunities for academically exceptional students and recent graduates.
High School Students (10-year visa):
- Minimum grade of 95% in high school
- Graduation from a UAE public or private school licensed by the Ministry of Education or local educational authorities
- Certificate authenticated by the Ministry of Education
- Students can sponsor parents but not siblings
University Students and Recent Graduates (5 or 10-year visa):
- Bachelor’s degree from UAE-accredited university OR graduation from a university ranked in the top 100 globally
- For UAE universities classified as “A”: minimum GPA of 3.5
- For UAE universities classified as “B”: minimum GPA of 3.8
- For international universities: minimum GPA of 3.5
- Graduation must have occurred within the last 2 years
- Certificate authenticated by the Ministry of Education or Higher Education
Note: University student/graduate visa holders can sponsor family members (spouse and children) upon proof of employment contract, steady income, and suitable housing.
Humanitarian Pioneers and Frontline Heroes
The UAE recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions through humanitarian work or demonstrated extraordinary dedication during crises.
Humanitarian Pioneers (10-year visa):
- Minimum 5 years of service with international or regional humanitarian organizations
- Minimum 5 years with civil associations and institutions of public interest
- Receipt of appreciation awards from recognized humanitarian organizations
- Financial supporters of humanitarian work with contributions not less than AED 2 million
- Waqf donors (Islamic endowment or charitable trust) meeting eligibility criteria outlined in Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022
Frontline Heroes:
- Healthcare workers, nurses, medical assistants, lab technicians, and pharmacologists who displayed exceptional dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Recommendation from a competent authority or the Frontline Heroes Office
- Recognition for extraordinary service during times of crisis
How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa in 2026
The application process for the Golden Visa has been streamlined through digital platforms, making it more accessible and efficient for qualified applicants.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility Category
- Review the comprehensive eligibility criteria outlined above
- Identify which category best matches your qualifications
- For category-specific nominations (nurses, educators, content creators), ensure you meet the specialized requirements
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
While specific documents vary by category, most applications require:
- Valid passport copy (minimum 6 months validity)
- Current UAE residence permit (if already in the country)
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of health insurance from a UAE-licensed provider
- Emirates ID copy (if applicable)
Category-specific documents may include:
- Investment proof (bank statements, property title deeds, business licenses)
- Educational certificates authenticated by the Ministry of Education
- Professional licenses and approvals from relevant authorities
- Employment contracts and salary certificates
- Recommendation letters from authorized bodies
- Medical fitness certificate
- Police clearance certificate (good conduct certificate)
- Family documents (marriage certificate, birth certificates for children)
Step 3: Obtain Necessary Approvals and Nominations
Many categories require pre-approval or nomination from relevant UAE authorities:
- KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority) for educators in Dubai
- RAK DOK for educators in Ras Al Khaimah
- Creators HQ for digital content creators
- Dubai Culture for e-sports professionals
- Ministry of Health for doctors
- Emirates Council of Scientists for researchers
- Ministry of Economy for inventors
- Accredited business incubators for entrepreneurs
Step 4: Submit Your Application Online
Applications can be submitted through official government portals:
Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP)
- Website: www.icp.gov.ae
- Mobile app: ICP UAE (available on Google Play and App Store)
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFA)
- For Dubai-specific applications
- Website: www.gdrfad.gov.ae
TAMM Abu Dhabi
- For Abu Dhabi applications
- Website: tamm.abudhabi
Application procedure:
- Create an account or log in using UAE Pass
- Select “Golden Residency” or “Golden Visa” service
- Choose your eligibility category
- Fill in all required personal information
- Upload all supporting documents in the specified formats
- Review and submit your application
Step 5: Pay Application Fees
The total cost of a Golden Visa typically ranges from AED 2,800 to AED 4,800, depending on:
- Your specific category
- Whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UAE
- Duration of the visa (5 or 10 years)
- Number of family members being sponsored
Fee breakdown (approximate):
- Application processing fee: AED 2,800 (standard for most categories except property and public investment)
- Medical fitness examination: AED 300-500
- Emirates ID issuance: AED 300-500
- Entry permit (if applying from outside UAE): AED 500-1,000
- Knowledge dirham: AED 10
- Innovation dirham: AED 10
- Delivery charges: AED 20
Additional costs:
- Health insurance: AED 800-3,000+ (varies by coverage and health conditions)
- Document attestation and translation services (if required)
- Optional typing center or service consultant fees
Important: Fees are paid electronically through the online portal using credit or debit cards. If your application is rejected, approximately 60% of the processing fee may be refunded.
Step 6: Complete Medical Fitness Test
All applicants must undergo a medical fitness examination at a government-approved health center. This includes:
- Blood tests
- Chest X-ray
- General health screening
The medical certificate is valid for a limited period, so timing is important.
Step 7: Biometric Registration
First-time applicants or those applying from outside the UAE must visit an authorized center for:
- Fingerprint registration
- Photograph for Emirates ID
- Biometric data capture
Step 8: Application Review and Approval
After submission, authorities review your application thoroughly. This process typically takes:
- 72 hours to 30 days for standard applications
- Longer for complex cases requiring additional verification
You’ll receive updates via SMS and email to your registered contact information.
Step 9: Visa Issuance and Residence Stamping
Upon approval:
- You’ll receive notification of approval
- Entry permit is issued (if applying from outside UAE)
- Residence visa is stamped in your passport
- Emirates ID is issued
- Visa validity begins from the date of issuance
Step 10: Family Sponsorship (Optional)
Golden Visa holders can sponsor:
- Spouse
- Children (unmarried sons under 25, unmarried daughters of any age)
- Parents (for 10-year visa holders only)
Each family member requires separate documentation and fee payment.
Key Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
The Golden Visa offers substantial advantages that make it one of the most attractive residency programs globally.
Long-Term Security and Stability
- 10-year renewable residency (or 5-year for certain categories)
- Automatic renewal as long as eligibility criteria continue to be met
- No requirement to reside continuously in the UAE for six months to maintain validity
- Can stay outside the UAE for extended periods without losing residency status
Complete Independence
- No need for a local sponsor or employer to maintain residency
- Freedom to change jobs without affecting visa status
- Ability to work, study, or invest independently
- 100% business ownership allowed in approved sectors
Family Benefits
- Sponsor spouse, children, and in some cases parents
- Family members can remain in UAE until their permit expires, even if primary holder passes away
- Access to quality education and healthcare for family
- Family members enjoy the same residency stability
Tax Advantages
- No personal income tax on salaries, wages, or investment income
- No wealth tax or inheritance tax
- No capital gains tax for individuals
- Corporate tax may apply only under certain business conditions and thresholds
Access to World-Class Services
- Premium healthcare system
- International-standard education institutions
- Modern infrastructure
- Safe and secure environment
- High quality of life
Business and Investment Opportunities
- Access to one of the world’s fastest-growing economies
- Gateway to markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia
- Business-friendly regulatory environment
- Strong banking and financial services sector
Exclusive Privileges
- Access to loyalty programs such as the Fazaa Card (issued by Ministry of Interior’s Social Solidarity Fund)
- Discounts on retail, education, healthcare, housing, and hospitality services
- Banking benefits and preferential rates
- Priority services at government departments
Enhanced Global Services
For Golden Visa holders abroad, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced enhanced consular services in October 2025:
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- Electronic return documents for lost or damaged passports
- Crisis evacuation coordination
- Repatriation of remains support
- Dedicated global hotline
Important Considerations and Tips
Document Authenticity and Consistency
- Ensure all documents are genuine, up-to-date, and properly attested
- Maintain consistency across all submissions (personal details, employment history, etc.)
- Foreign documents must be attested through relevant UAE embassy or consulate
- Some documents require attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Stay Informed About Policy Changes
Visa policies and requirements can change. Always verify current requirements on official websites before applying:
- ICP: www.icp.gov.ae
- GDRFA Dubai: www.gdrfad.gov.ae
- Official UAE Government Portal: www.u.ae
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult official government sources rather than third-party agencies.
Avoid Common Mistakes
- Incomplete documentation is a leading cause of delays or rejections
- Applying under the wrong category can result in rejection
- Ensure your documents remain valid throughout the application process
- Some categories require specific salary thresholds or licensing – verify exact requirements for your pathway
- Beware of misinformation from unofficial sources
Consider Professional Assistance
- If you’re uncertain about the process, licensed visa service providers can help
- Professional assistance can ensure proper document preparation and submission
- This is optional but may be helpful for complex cases
Maintain Compliance
- Once approved, ensure you maintain the conditions that qualified you for the visa
- Keep health insurance active
- Maintain required investments or property ownership
- Renew professional licenses as applicable
- Update authorities if your circumstances change significantly
Blue Visa Option for Environmental Contributors
In addition to the Golden Visa, the UAE officially launched the Blue Visa in February 2025 (first announced in May 2024). This 10-year residence visa targets individuals who have made significant positive contributions to environmental protection, climate action, or sustainability innovation inside or outside the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I apply for a Golden Visa in the UAE?
You can apply through the official ICP website (www.icp.gov.ae), the ICP UAE mobile app (available on Google Play and App Store), GDRFA Dubai portal for Dubai applications, or TAMM for Abu Dhabi applications. The streamlined online system guides you through the entire process.
What are the general requirements for obtaining a Golden Visa?
Requirements vary significantly by category. Generally, you need to prove investment (minimum AED 2 million for investors), demonstrate exceptional talent with relevant approvals, show entrepreneurial achievements, meet salary thresholds (AED 30,000+ for skilled professionals), or have outstanding academic performance. Each category has specific documentation requirements.
What benefits does a Golden Visa offer?
Benefits include a renewable long-term residence visa (5 or 10 years), no sponsor requirement, extended stay allowance outside UAE, family sponsorship rights, tax advantages (no personal income tax), access to premium services, and exclusive discounts through programs like the Fazaa Card.
Who is eligible for a Golden Visa in 2026?
Eligible individuals include investors, real estate buyers, entrepreneurs, doctors, scientists, inventors, creative professionals, executive directors, athletes, skilled professionals earning AED 30,000+, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers, frontline heroes, nurses with 15+ years service, educators, digital content creators, e-sports professionals, and luxury yacht owners.
What specific requirements must investors meet?
Investors need a minimum investment of AED 2 million in property (without loans except through approved banks), public investment funds, or commercial/industrial businesses. They must provide proof of full ownership, health insurance for family, proof of UAE residence, and relevant documentation from approved entities.
How can entrepreneurs qualify for a Golden Visa?
Entrepreneurs need an auditor’s approval letter confirming project value of at least AED 500,000, approval from emirate authorities stating the project is innovative and technological/futuristic in nature, and endorsement from an accredited UAE business incubator.
What are the criteria for outstanding specialized talents?
Criteria vary by profession. Doctors need Ministry of Health approval, scientists need Emirates Council of Scientists recommendation, inventors need Ministry of Economy confirmation of patent value, creative professionals need Ministry of Culture approval, and executive directors need university degrees, 5+ years experience, and AED 50,000+ monthly salary.
Can family members be sponsored under a Golden Visa?
Yes, holders can sponsor their spouse and children. Unmarried sons under 25 and unmarried daughters of any age can be sponsored. Holders of 10-year visas may also sponsor parents. Family members can stay until their permit expires, even if the primary holder passes away.
How much does the Golden Visa cost?
The total cost typically ranges from AED 2,800 to AED 4,800, including application processing (AED 2,800 for most categories), medical examination (AED 300-500), Emirates ID (AED 300-500), and various administrative fees. Health insurance is additional (AED 800-3,000+). Costs vary based on category and whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UAE.
How long does the application process take?
Standard applications are typically processed within 72 hours to 30 days. Complex cases requiring additional verification may take longer. You’ll receive status updates via SMS and email throughout the process.
Can I work in the UAE without a sponsor with a Golden Visa?
Yes, one of the key benefits is that Golden Visa holders do not need a sponsor to live or work in the UAE. This provides complete independence and flexibility in employment.
What happens if I stay outside the UAE for more than six months?
Unlike standard residence visas, Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for more than six months without losing their residency status. This provides exceptional flexibility for international business or personal travel.
Are there age restrictions for the Golden Visa?
Generally, there are no specific age restrictions for most categories. However, some categories have minimum age requirements (e.g., e-sports professionals must be 25 or older). Students and recent graduates have specific academic timeline requirements.
Can Golden Visa holders obtain UAE citizenship?
While the Golden Visa provides long-term residency, it does not automatically lead to citizenship. The UAE does offer citizenship through exceptional merit in certain cases, but this is a separate process with its own strict criteria.
What documents need to be attested?
Foreign educational certificates, marriage certificates, birth certificates, and other official documents typically require attestation from your home country’s authorities and the UAE embassy or consulate in that country. Some documents also require attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Conclusion
The UAE Golden Visa program in 2026 represents an unprecedented opportunity for global talent, investors, professionals, and families seeking long-term stability in one of the world’s most dynamic economies. With the addition of five new categories in 2025—nurses, educators, digital content creators, e-sports professionals, and luxury yacht owners—the program has become more inclusive and diverse than ever before.
Whether you’re an investor looking to capitalize on the UAE’s thriving economy, a skilled professional seeking career advancement, an entrepreneur with an innovative vision, or a talented individual in healthcare, education, sports, arts, or digital media, the Golden Visa offers a clear pathway to long-term residency without the need for a local sponsor.
The program’s benefits extend far beyond just residency status. With no personal income tax, access to world-class education and healthcare, family sponsorship rights, and the freedom to live, work, and invest independently, Golden Visa holders enjoy a quality of life that few countries can match.
As the UAE continues to position itself as a global hub for innovation, investment, and talent, the Golden Visa program stands as a testament to the country’s forward-thinking approach to economic development and its commitment to attracting and retaining the best minds from around the world.
If you believe you qualify under any of the categories outlined in this guide, now is the time to begin your application. Review the official requirements carefully, gather your documentation, and take the first step toward securing your future in the United Arab Emirates.
Always verify the latest information through official government portals:
- Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP): www.icp.gov.ae
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai: www.gdrfad.gov.ae
- Official UAE Government Portal: www.u.ae
- TAMM Abu Dhabi: tamm.abudhabi
The UAE Golden Visa isn’t just a residence permit—it’s your gateway to building a prosperous, secure future in a nation that celebrates innovation, talent, and global collaboration.