UAE Golden Visa Requirements: Eligibility Criteria for 2025 

The UAE Golden Visa provides long-term residency to individuals who make significant contributions to the country’s economy and development.  

The requirements vary based on the applicant’s category: investor, entrepreneur, exceptional talent, student, or humanitarian contributor. Below is a detailed breakdown of eligibility criteria for each category. 

1. Investors in Public Investments (10-Year Visa) 

Eligibility may apply if you invest in a UAE-approved investment fund and provide the following documents: 

  • A letter from a certified investment fund confirming a deposit of at least AED 2 million, or 
  • A commercial or industrial license accompanied by a memorandum of association that reflects a capital of at least AED 2 million, and 
  • A letter from the Federal Tax Authority proving an annual tax contribution of AED 250,000 or more. 

Additional Conditions: 

  • You must fully own the invested capital (not financed by a loan). 
  • Proof of valid medical insurance for yourself and dependents. 

2. Real Estate Investors (5-Year Visa, Renewable) 

You may qualify if: 

  • You own property or properties worth AED 2 million or more (verified by a letter from the relevant emirate’s Land Department). 
  • The property can be financed, but only through specific local banks that local authorities have approved. 

3. Entrepreneurs (5-Year Visa) 

Eligibility is granted if you own a project of a technical or future-oriented nature based on innovation and risk-taking. Required documents include: 

  • An auditor’s confirmation that the project is valued at AED 500,000 or more. 
  • An approval letter from local authorities confirming the project's future or technical nature. 
  • An endorsement from a certified UAE business incubator. 

4. Outstanding Specialised Talents (10-Year Visa) 

Eligible categories include doctors, scientists, inventors, creatives, executives, athletes, and specialists in key scientific fields. 

Requirements by Talent Type: 

  • Doctors: Approval from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention. 
  • Scientists: Recommendation from the Emirates Council of Scientists or the Mohammed bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence. 
  • Inventors: Patent recognised by the Ministry of Economy with proven economic value. 
  • Artists & Cultural Figures: Approval from the relevant emirate's Department of Culture and Arts. 
  • Executives: 
  • Accredited bachelor’s degree or higher. 
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in a similar role. 
  • Salary certificate (minimum AED 50,000). 
  • Valid employment contract.
  • Athletes: Recommendation from the General Sports Authority or local sports council. 
  • Engineering & Science Specialists: Bachelor’s/Master’s degree (certified) + valid employment contract. 

Engineering/Science Fields Include: 

  • AI, big data, software/electronics/computer engineering 
  • Epidemiology & virology 
  • Electrical engineering 
  • Genetics & biotechnology 

5. Outstanding Students 

High School Students (5-Year Visa, Renewable) 

Eligibility is: 

  • UAE national topper with 95%+ in public/private school. 
  • Recommendation from the Ministry of Education. 

University Students (10-Year Visa) 

  • Enrolled in a UAE university rated A or B class by the Ministry of Education. 
  • GPA ≥ 3.5 (A class) or ≥ 3.8 (B class). 
  • Must apply within 2 years of graduation. 

Students from Foreign Universities (10-Year Visa) 

  • Graduated from a top 100 university (as per MoE-approved rankings). 
  • GPA ≥ 3.5. 
  • Graduation must be within the past 2 years. 
  • The certificate must be MoE-accredited. 

6. Pioneers of Humanitarian Work (10-Year Visa) 

You must meet at least one of the following: 

  • Worked with international or regional humanitarian organisations for 5+ years. 
  • Served in civil/public interest institutions for 5+ years. 
  • Received an award from a recognised humanitarian body. 
  • Donated/supported humanitarian work worth AED 2 million or more. 

7. Frontline Heroes 

Frontline professionals who served during crises like COVID-19 are eligible upon: 

  • Recommendation from the Frontline Heroes Office. 
  • Applicable to nurses, lab techs, pharmacologists, and similar medical personnel.