The UAE Golden Visa grants 10-year renewable residency with no requirement for a UAE employer sponsor. Since its expansion in 2022, it has become one of the most sought-after residency programmes globally — offering genuine long-term stability for investors, founders and professionals.
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is a long-term UAE residency programme introduced in 2019 and significantly expanded in 2022. It grants 10-year renewable residency to qualifying individuals and their families — including spouse, children (regardless of age for daughters, sons under 18 or disabled), and household staff. There is no minimum UAE stay requirement to maintain the visa.
Investor Pathway: Real Estate and Capital
UAE real estate with a minimum value of AED 2 million (fully owned, not mortgaged beyond AED 2 million). Public investment fund deposits of AED 2 million or more. Approved investment deposits of AED 2 million or more. Established UAE company with paid-up capital of AED 2 million or more. Property owned jointly can qualify if your share meets the threshold.
Entrepreneur Pathway
Founders of a UAE startup recognised by an accredited incubator or accelerator. Owners of an existing UAE business with annual revenue of AED 500,000 or more. Founders who have previously exited a UAE business for AED 7 million or more. Partnership arrangements with UAE government-recognised incubators. Most free zone and mainland businesses can qualify if the revenue threshold is met.
Skilled Professional Pathway
UAE employment with a monthly salary of AED 30,000 or more in a priority sector. Bachelor's degree classified as 'first class' or above, or an equivalent higher qualification. Recognised professionals in healthcare, STEM, arts and culture, education and social sciences. Humanitarian and social sector pioneers. Athletes recognised by UAE sports authorities. Exceptional creatives and cultural figures.
Family Inclusion
The primary Golden Visa holder can sponsor their spouse, all children (as described above) and domestic workers on the same 10-year residency. There is no separate income requirement for family members. Children born after the visa is issued can be added. PRF coordinates family visa applications simultaneously to minimise processing time.
The Application Process
Eligibility assessment — PRF reviews your profile and confirms the strongest pathway. Document preparation — PRF provides a tailored checklist and reviews all documents. Application submission — through ICP, GDRFA or the relevant free zone authority via EmaraTax or the dedicated portal. Medical and biometrics — scheduled and coordinated in Dubai. Visa stamp and Emirates ID — issued on approval. Total time: typically 4—8 weeks from document submission.
Combining Golden Visa with UAE Business Setup
Many clients obtain their Golden Visa alongside a UAE company setup — achieving both their trade license and 10-year residency in a single coordinated engagement. The UAE business can satisfy the entrepreneur pathway while providing the commercial presence needed for banking. PRF manages both tracks simultaneously.