Dreaming of Dubai? Here's how you can get golden visa to UAE

Golden visa programs have gained immense popularity, enabling wealthy Indians to attain residency or citizenship in foreign countries by meeting specific eligibility criteria, promising improved prosperity and lifestyle..

In a bid to further boost its economy and attract foreign investments, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has also rolled out golden visas for Indian investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents, and professionals. The UAE Golden Visa, offers a pathway to long-term residency in the country, along with a multitude of benefits.

"Golden Visa UAE offers a gateway to new markets and a plethora of business, career, educational, healthcare, tax, and lifestyle benefits on a global scale for both present and future generations," Ravi Singhal, CEO, GCL told Republic.

Investors

Indian investors are given a chance to secure a 10-year UAE Golden Visa by fulfilling certain criteria. Depositing a minimum of AED 2 million (Rs 44,851,454) into an approved investment fund is a key requirement. Additionally, if an investor pays an annual tax of at least AED 250,000 (approximately Rs 5,606,431), they become eligible for long-term residency. This also extends to senior employees, executive directors, and advisors associated with the investor.

"Golden Visa programme of UAE presents unprecedented opportunities for Indian investors and their families to diversify their assets, expand their horizons, and secure their financial future in a volatile world. As these programmes continue to gain popularity, the dream of global mobility becomes an attainable reality for those with the means to invest," said Ravi Singh, VP and research head, Share India.

The Dubai Golden Visa opens doors to thrive in a dynamic city | Image credit: Pixabay

Entrepreneurs

For Indian entrepreneurs with a flair for innovation, the UAE Golden Visa offers a pathway to 5-year residency. To qualify, entrepreneurs must establish a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) startup in the UAE and obtain approval from recognised authorities. The startup should generate no less than AED 1 million (approximately Rs 22,425,727) to make the entrepreneur eligible for the Golden Visa. Furthermore, those who have previously sold a project for AED 7 million (approximately Rs 156,980,091) or more are also eligible, along with the ability to nominate employees or partners for the visa.

 Specialised talents

The Golden Visa UAE is not limited to investors and entrepreneurs. It also extends to individuals with specialised skills in fields such as medicine, science, culture, and art. Doctors, scientists, artists, inventors, and professionals in engineering and science can all apply for the visa. Criteria for specialised talents include recommendations from relevant authorities, research achievements, contributions to scientific research, and more. Notably, some fields do not require proof of educational qualifications or employment status.

The Dubai Golden Visa opens doors to thrive in a dynamic city | Image credit: Pixabay

Students and graduates

Outstanding students from renowned universities in the UAE are also eligible for the Golden Visa UAE. High school and private secondary school students from the top 100 global and UAE universities can obtain a 5-year visa. Those with exceptional academic performance can secure a 10-year visa if their GPA exceeds 3.8. Moreover, they can sponsor their parents and siblings if they meet the specified criteria.

Humanitarian and frontline workers

The UAE government recognises the contributions of humanitarian and frontline workers, especially in times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. Distinguished members of international and regional organisations, outstanding volunteers, and those with significant recognition in humanitarian fields are eligible for the Golden Visa.

The Dubai Golden Visa opens doors to thrive in a dynamic city | Image credit: Pixabay

Application process and benefits

The process to obtain a Golden Visa UAE involves several steps, including obtaining an entry permit, starting the visa application process, and submitting necessary documents. The visa is typically valid for 5 to 10 years, depending on the category, and can be renewed. Holders of the UAE Golden Visa are entitled to benefits such as long-term residency, the ability to work and study, ownership of businesses, and the privilege of bringing family members to live with them in the UAE.