Golden Visa UAE – Are You Eligible for UAE Residency Visa?

The Golden Visa UAE program has been creating quite a buzz lately, and for good reason. With recent updates and regulations, it’s now easier than ever for graduates from accredited international universities to obtain a 10-year renewable Golden Visa for the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This visa grants you the freedom to live in the UAE without the need for a sponsor or host. Whether you’re considering working, investing, starting a business, or simply settling in this vibrant country, this article will guide you through the eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and more.

Table of Contents

1. Eligibility Criteria
2. Application Channels
3. Application Approval and Rejection
4. Required Documents and Fees
5. Benefits of the Golden Visa
6. Additional Benefits by Emirates
7. How to Apply
8. Expanded Eligibility Categories
9. Pricing and Validity
10. Grace Period

Now, let’s dive into the details!

Eligibility Criteria for Golden Visa UAE

To be eligible for the Golden Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Valid Passport: Your passport should have a validity of no less than 6 months, even if you are outside the UAE.
2. Accredited University: The university from which you graduated must be listed among the top 100 universities in the world, according to the international classification approved by the Ministry of Education.
3. Academic Excellence: Your cumulative average for bachelor’s graduates must not be less than 3.5 degrees.
4. Recent Graduation: You must have graduated no more than 2 years ago, and the Ministry of Education must approve your certificate.

Meeting these requirements is crucial for a successful application.

Application Channels

The application process for the Golden Visa is accessible and convenient, offering multiple channels to suit your preferences:

1. UAECIP Website or Smart Application: Apply online through the UAECIP website or their smart application. You’ll need to use the UAE digital identity or create a username, fill in your data, attach the required documents, pay the service fees, and wait for the evaluation of the service.
2. ICP’s Customer Happiness Centres: Submit an application in person at the ICP’s Customer Happiness Centres once you’ve fulfilled all conditions and gathered all necessary documents.
3. Typing Offices: Accredited typing offices by the ICP are another option for submitting your Golden Visa application.

Application Approval and Rejection

After submitting your application, expect to receive a response by email within 48 hours. However, it’s crucial to ensure that your application is complete and accurate. Incomplete or incorrect applications may be rejected electronically after 30 days. If your application is rejected three times for these reasons, it is completely rejected. In such cases, issuance fees and financial guarantees, if any, will be refunded within 6 months.’

Required Documents and Fees

When applying for the Golden Visa, you’ll need to submit the following documents:

• A copy of your passport
• A colored personal photo
• Visa issuance fee of AED 350, which includes application fees, issuance fees, smart services fees, and electronic services fees
• Additional fees for medical examination, if required

Ensure you have these documents ready to expedite the process.

Benefits of the Golden Visa

The Golden Visa UAE offers a wide range of benefits, including:

• An entry visa for six months with multiple entries, followed by the issuance of a 10-year renewable residence permit.
• Self-sponsorship, allows you to stay outside of the UAE for any amount of time without nullifying your visa.
• The ability to sponsor family members, including spouses, children, and parents, for a 10-year residency without additional deposits.
• The ability to sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers.
• Provision for family members to stay in the UAE even after the primary holder of the Golden Visa passes away.

These perks make the Golden Visa a compelling option for those seeking long-term residency in the UAE.

Additional Benefits by Emirates

Different emirates offer unique benefits to Golden Visa holders:

Abu Dhabi

• Discounts and offers on cars, property, healthcare, hospitality, health insurance, and banking services.
• Discounts on selected properties from developer Imkan Properties.
• Reduced mortgage fixed-interest rates and attractive rates on savings accounts from banks like Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank.
• Reduced premiums on annual health insurance plans.
• Special offers for dining, spa treatments, gyms, and stays at selected hospitality venues.

Dubai

• Eligibility for a UAE driver’s license without extra lessons for holders of a license from approved countries.
• 10-year residency Golden Visa for outstanding expatriate students and their families.
• Esaad privilege card for certain categories of Golden Visa holders.

The specific benefits can vary, so be sure to explore the advantages offered in the emirate where you plan to reside.

How to Apply for Golden Visa UAE

You can apply for the Golden Visa through two main channels:

1. ICA (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security UAE) Website: Apply for the visa online through the ICP smart services platform. You’ll need to submit the necessary documents and be willing to relocate to the UAE in accordance with your business venture.
2. GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) Dubai Website: Apply for the visa online through the GDRFA Dubai website. Select your desired Golden Visa service, fill out the visa application form, attach the required documents, and pay the necessary fees.

Expanded Eligibility Categories

The UAE has expanded the eligible categories for the Golden Visa, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals. Some of the latest additions specific to Abu Dhabi include senior scholars and clerics, elite specialists in various industries, specialists in health fields, and specialists in education.

Pricing and Validity

The cost of the Golden Visa UAE varies based on the category of the visa and whether you apply from within the UAE or outside. Application fees range from AED 2,800 to AED 4,800, with additional fees for medical examinations. The UAE government has also extended the validity of all categories of the Golden Visa from 5 years to 10 years, making it an even more attractive option for those looking to live and work in the UAE.

Grace Period

Golden Visa holders have a grace period of 6 months after visa expiry or cancellation to either amend their status and get another residence visa or leave the country. During this grace period, fines do not apply.

Conclusion

The Golden Visa UAE program offers a wealth of opportunities for individuals seeking to live and work in the UAE. With expanded eligibility categories, extended validity, and a range of benefits, it’s an attractive option for many. However, it’s essential to meet the eligibility criteria and go through the application process carefully to ensure a smooth experience.

FAQs

1. What is the Golden Visa UAE? The Golden Visa UAE is a 10-year renewable residency visa that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the UAE without the need for a sponsor.
2. How much does the Golden Visa UAE cost?

The cost of the Golden Visa UAE varies depending on the category and whether you apply from within the UAE or outside. Application fees range from AED 2,800 to AED 4,800.

• Can I apply for the Golden Visa UAE if I graduate from a university outside the UAE?

Yes, graduates from accredited universities outside the UAE are eligible to apply for the Golden Visa, provided they meet the specified criteria, including academic excellence and recent graduation.

• What are the benefits of the Golden Visa UAE?

The Golden Visa UAE offers a range of benefits, including a long-term residence permit, self-sponsorship, the ability to sponsor family members, and unique incentives offered by different emirates.

• Is there a grace period for Golden Visa holders after visa expiry or cancellation? Yes, Golden Visa holders have a grace period of 6 months after visa expiry or cancellation to either amend their status and get another residence visa or leave the country. During this grace period, fines do not apply.

In conclusion, the Golden Visa UAE program offers an attractive pathway for individuals looking to establish a long-term presence in the UAE. Whether you’re a recent graduate, an entrepreneur, or a professional in various fields, the program’s expanded eligibility categories and benefits make it an appealing option for those seeking residency in this dynamic and prosperous nation. However, it’s essential to carefully follow the application process and meet the specific criteria to secure your Golden Visa