Dubai, the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) most populous city, is a top destination for those seeking a change of scenery and a new start. One way to achieve this is through the Golden Visa Dubai program, which allows individuals to obtain long-term residency in the UAE. In this article, we will explore the Golden Visa Dubai program in detail, including who is eligible, the requirements and application process, and the costs involved.
What is Golden Visa Dubai?
The Golden Visa Dubai is a long-term residency program offered by the government of the UAE. It allows individuals to live and work in Dubai for a period of up to 10 years, with the option to renew the visa at the end of the term. The program was introduced in 2019 as a way to attract high-skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to the UAE.
Who is eligible for Golden Visa Dubai?
There are several categories of individuals who are eligible for the Golden Visa Dubai program. These include:
- High-skilled professionals: This category includes individuals who have a bachelor’s degree and at least five years of experience in their field. Examples include doctors, engineers, lawyers, and IT professionals.
- Entrepreneurs: This category includes individuals who have a business idea or a startup that they would like to set up in Dubai.
- Investors: This category includes individuals who are looking to invest a significant amount of money in Dubai, either through real estate or business ventures.
In addition to these categories, individuals who are married to UAE nationals or have a parent or sibling who is a UAE national may also be eligible for the Golden Visa Dubai.
What are the requirements for Golden Visa Dubai?
There are several requirements that individuals must meet in order to be eligible for the Golden Visa Dubai program. These include:
- A valid passport: Applicants must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining.
- A clean criminal record: Applicants must not have a criminal record and must undergo a background check.
- Health insurance: Applicants must have health insurance that covers them in the UAE.
- Financial stability: Applicants must be able to demonstrate financial stability, either through employment or through investments.
- Language proficiency: Applicants must be able to speak and understand English or Arabic.
How to apply for Golden Visa Dubai?
The application process for the Golden Visa Dubai program is fairly straightforward. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Determine your eligibility: The first step is to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for the program. This includes checking to see if you meet the criteria for one of the three categories (high-skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, or investors) and making sure you have all the required documents.
- Gather the necessary documents: The next step is to gather the necessary documents, including your passport, proof of employment or business ownership, and financial documents demonstrating your ability to support yourself in Dubai.
- Submit your application: Once you have all the required documents, you can submit your application through the Dubai e-Government portal or through an authorized visa center.
- Pay the fees: You will need to pay the fees associated with the Golden Visa Dubai program, which vary depending on the length of your visa and the category you fall into.
- Wait for a decision: Once you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for a decision. This can take several weeks or even months, depending on the volume of applications.
What are the costs of Golden Visa Dubai?
The cost of a golden visa in Dubai can vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay. Here are some estimates of the costs associated with obtaining a golden visa in Dubai:
- Investor Visa: This visa is for individuals who want to invest in a business in Dubai. The cost for this visa is around AED 50,000 (approximately $13,600) per year, with a minimum investment of AED 10 million (approximately $2.7 million).
- Entrepreneur Visa: This visa is for individuals who want to start a business in Dubai. The cost for this visa is around AED 50,000 (approximately $13,600) per year, with a minimum investment of AED 500,000 (approximately $135,000).
- Property Investment Visa: This visa is for individuals who want to invest in property in Dubai. The cost for this visa is around AED 100,000 (approximately $27,200) per year, with a minimum investment of AED 1 million (approximately $270,000) in real estate.
- Family Visa: This visa is for individuals who want to bring their family to live with them in Dubai. The cost for this visa is around AED 25,000 (approximately $6,800) per year, with a minimum investment of AED 500,000 (approximately $135,000).
Please note that these estimates are rough and may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the individual applying for a golden visa. It is always best to consult with a local immigration lawyer or the Dubai government for the most accurate and up-to-date information.