Golden Visa 2026: The Complete Application Guide

The UAE Golden Visa programme, launched in 2019 and significantly expanded in 2022, offers long-term residency of 5 or 10 years to investors, exceptional talent, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and outstanding students. Unlike a standard employment visa, the Golden Visa is self-sponsored — you are not tied to any employer, and you can stay in the UAE even if you change jobs or leave employment entirely.

Who Qualifies in 2026?

The eligibility categories have expanded considerably since the programme launched. The main pathways in 2026 are:

• Real estate investors — own UAE property valued at AED 2 million or more (mortgage properties qualify under the 2022 rules)
• Entrepreneurs — own an established project with minimum capital of AED 500,000 or be a co-founder of an approved startup
• Skilled professionals — hold a specialised degree, earn at least AED 30,000/month, and work in a Golden Visa priority field (healthcare, engineering, science, art, culture)
• Doctors and nurses — licensed by HAAD or DHA with specialisation in a priority field
• Scientists and researchers — recommended by the Emirates Scientists Council
• Outstanding students — secondary school graduates with a 95%+ average, or top university graduates (GPA 3.8+) from approved global universities
• Humanitarian leaders and public figures — nominated by relevant UAE authorities

5-Step Application Process

1. Confirm eligibility — check ICP.gov.ae for the current category criteria and required documents for your specific pathway
2. Prepare your documents — typically includes attested degree certificates, salary slips (3–6 months), employment contract, Emirates ID, and passport copies
3. Submit your application through the ICP Smart App or at an ICA service centre in Dubai or Abu Dhabi
4. Receive a 6-month entry permit to complete the medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics inside the UAE
5. Collect your Golden Visa — the 5 or 10-year residency stamp is applied to your passport, and your Emirates ID is issued with the extended validity

Costs

Golden Visa fees have been significantly reduced since the programme launched. Current fees in 2026:

• 5-year Golden Visa: approximately AED 2,800–3,800 all-in (entry permit + medical + Emirates ID)
• 10-year Golden Visa: approximately AED 3,500–4,500 all-in
• Dependant sponsorship: AED 650–1,000 per family member
• Medical fitness test: AED 320 at any MOHAP-approved centre
• Document attestation: Variable — typically AED 500–2,000 depending on country of issue

Family Benefits

Once you hold a Golden Visa, you can sponsor your immediate family on the same long-term visa. Spouse, children (including adult children studying full-time), and domestic workers can all be included. Children sponsored on a Golden Visa retain their status until age 25 if studying, and daughters can retain it indefinitely regardless of marital status.