Since Brexit, many Britons have been seeking new opportunities abroad in countries with warmer climates and better financial prospects. However, without family or a sponsor, securing a visa can be tough. To bypass strict visa requirements, many are turning to Golden Visas − also known as residency or citizenship by investment schemes. These programmes offer the right to live, work, and study in a country in exchange for a substantial investment, such as through real estate or business ventures.

European countries like Spain and Portugal have long been popular, but increasingly, people are drawn to the United Arab Emirates. With its modern infrastructure, minimal income tax, vibrant expat community, and ideal location for international travel, it’s easy to see why.

The UAE Golden Visa, also referred to as the Dubai Golden Visa as many choose to be based there, is a pathway to long-term residency. Unlike standard visas, it offers renewable five- or ten-year residency, making it a great option for those seeking to make Dubai or other Emirates their permanent home.

Are you considering relocating to the UAE? Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or skilled professional, the Golden Visa could be your ticket. In this article, we’ll guide you through the application process and required documentation.

What Is the UAE Golden Visa?

The economic requirements for a Golden Visa vary from country to country – and they keep changing. To be eligible for a Golden Visa in UAE and in most countries, you must be over 18, have a clean criminal record, proof of funds and health insurance.

The UAE Golden Visa residence by investment programme lets individuals and their families live in the UAE without a sponsor but through economic contributions to the country. Investment options include buying a property, acquiring a property with a loan from specific local banks, or buying one or more off-plan properties from approved local real estate companies. 

Note: For real-estate purchases, the minimum investment starts at AED 2 million (about £432,200 at the time of writing).

To obtain a UAE Golden Visa, one must meet one of these key criteria:

  • Purchase property worth AED 2 million or more
  • Invest AED 2 million in a UAE-accredited investment fund
  • Make an annual tax payment of AED 250,000 to the UAE Government
  • Own a technical or innovative economic project valued at AED 500,000 or more
  • Demonstrate exceptional talent in your field

The Golden Visa permits residence across all seven Emirates, namely:

  1. Dubai
  2. Abu Dhabi
  3. Sharjah
  4. Ajman
  5. Umm Al-Quwain
  6. Fujairah
  7. Ras Al Khaimah

The Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

The UAE Golden Visa offers a level of security and convenience that sets it apart from typical residence permits. Some of its main advantages include: 

Long-Term Residency with Flexibility

One of the most attractive features of the UAE Golden Visa is the extended residency period − five or 10 years with the possibility of renewal. You can also stay outside the UAE beyond the usual six-month limit without losing your status.

Family-Focused Benefits

Your UAE Golden Visa covers more than just your individual needs. Your spouse and children can be included regardless of their age, and you can also sponsor unlimited domestic staff. Even if something happens to the primary visa holder, family members retain their residency rights − providing peace of mind for your loved ones’ futures. There’s also the Emirates’ renowned safety and modern infrastructure, offering a desirable quality of life.

Lifestyle and Business Advantages

Living in Dubai or any other Emirate as a Golden Visa holder means enjoying a tax-free environment while accessing world-class healthcare and education. Whether you’re going to work in the UAE, expand your business interests, or invest in property, you’ll find yourself perfectly positioned to take advantage of the UAE’s thriving economy. Let’s not forget that the region ranks in the top 20 of the World Bank’s Business Ready report, indicating a favourable environment for doing business. 

Strategic Location 

The UAE’s prime position as a global hub means you’re perfectly placed to access markets across Europe, Asia, and Africa. You’ll enjoy multiple entry privileges while arranging your residency, making international business and travel easy. 

UAE Golden Visa Eligibility Criteria

The UAE Golden Visa is designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, and highly skilled professionals. To become eligible, applicants must meet specific requirements, which vary depending on their category.

Investment-Based Eligibility

This is one of the most common ways to qualify for the UAE Golden Visa. Individuals who invest in real estate or a government-approved investment fund can secure long-term residency. 

For real estate investors to secure a five-year renewable Golden Visa they must purchase property or properties worth at least AED 2 million. Options include:

  • Fully owned, ready-to-live-in properties.
  • Properties financed through approved local banks.
  • Off-plan properties from designated developers.

Public investment investors can secure a 10-year Golden Visa by:

  • Depositing AED 2 million in an accredited investment fund.
  • Holding a business with capital of AED 2 million or more.
  • Paying at least AED 250,000 annually in taxes.

Business Owners and Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs with a business or startup valued at AED 500,000 may qualify for a Golden Visa for five years. However, the business must be innovative or technology-driven, reflecting the country’s focus on fostering future-oriented economic growth.

In addition to proving the value of the business, applicants must secure several important approvals:

  1. Auditor’s statement: You’ll need an official statement from an auditor in the UAE verifying that the project’s value is at least AED 500,000.
  2. Government approval: You must get approval from the relevant emirate authorities confirming that your project has a positive economic impact and aligns with the UAE’s vision for economic development.
  3. Support from a business incubator: You must gain support from an accredited business incubator in the UAE to show that your business has the necessary backing and infrastructure to thrive in the region.

Highly Skilled Professionals and Talents

The Golden Visa category extends to specialised talents in fields such as medicine, science, engineering, and the arts. Eligible professionals include:

  • Doctors and scientists who have approval from the UAE’s Ministry of Health or a scientific excellence award.
  • Inventors holding a patent that benefits the UAE economy.
  • Creative professionals such as artists, writers and other cultural figures who get approval from local cultural authorities (such as the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority).
  • Executives and specialists including recognised experts in AI, big data, genetics, biotechnology, and engineering fields.

What Documents are Required to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa?

A Golden Visa application requires careful preparation to avoid delays or rejections. The UAE authorities are strict about documentation, and missing or incorrectly certified paperwork can cause significant setbacks.

Applicants must provide:

  • A valid passport – The main applicant and all dependents must have a passport with at least six months’ validity.
  • Proof of investment – Depending on the eligibility category, this may include property purchase agreements, business ownership documents, or confirmation from an accredited investment fund.
  • Proof of funds – Bank statements or a financial portfolio demonstrating financial stability.
  • A medical certificate – A health certificate proving the applicant is in good health.
  • Health insurance – A valid health insurance policy covering the applicant and any accompanying family members.
  • Educational and professional documents – For skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, or creatives, notarised and attested qualifications may be required.

Note: For women applicants bringing their children, an additional certified, notarised, and attested letter of consent from the father is necessary.

Legalisation of Documents for the UAE

For documents issued in the UK to be accepted in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other UAE emirate, they must undergo a legalisation process before submission. This includes:

  1. Notarisation – Most documents must first be notarised by a UK notary public.
  2. Apostille certification – The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) must issue an apostille to verify the notary’s signature.
  3. Legalisation by the UAE Embassy – Once apostilled, the document must be legalised by the UAE Embassy in London.

Additional Considerations:

  • The UAE doesn’t accept bundled documents. Each document must be notarised and apostilled separately.
  • Foreign-issued documents (such as non-UK degrees or marriage certificates) may not be accepted unless first attested by the issuing country’s diplomatic body in the UK, followed by notarisation and apostille certification.
  • Educational certificates require special handling. The notarial clause must be printed directly on the document before apostille certification.
  • Some corporate documents might require additional steps, such as registration with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs or with other UAE Government departments, depending on the document type.

Ensuring your documents meet UAE legal requirements is crucial for a smooth Golden Visa application. If you require notarisation, apostille, or legalisation, contact us to ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary delays.

The UAE Golden Visa Application Process in 5 Steps

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

To apply for a Golden Visa, first confirm that you qualify under the approved categories, such as investment in real estate or business, exceptional talent, or specialised skills.

Step 2: Gather and Legalise Documents

Essential documents include your passport, proof of investment or business ownership, and financial statements. Documents issued outside the UAE must undergo notarisation, apostille certification, and legalisation at the UAE Embassy before submission.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Submit your application to the UAE Ministry of Economy or relevant authorities. In some cases, you may need to work with a UAE-based sponsor or service provider to complete the process.

Step 4: Await Approval

After submission, the UAE authorities will conduct due diligence checks. If approved, you’ll receive a six-month multiple-entry visa, which allows you to travel to the UAE and complete the final residency formalities.

Step 5: Finalise Residency

Upon arrival in the UAE, you must undergo a medical check and register for an Emirates ID. Once these steps are completed, your Golden Visa Dubai will be issued, granting you long-term residency rights.

Conclusion

The documentation requirements for getting a UAE Golden Visa might seem daunting at first, but you don’t have to navigate this process alone. Our team of experienced notaries can guide you through each step, ensuring your application has the best chance of success.

Ready to start your UAE Golden Visa journey? Get in touch with us today on 020 7630 1777, or email us at info@notary.co.uk