There is no doubt that the UAE has been a dream for some people. Forget the dessert safari or the new NEOM city; the UAE is slowly becoming a hub for a wide range of economic activities. And in the midst of this, the UAE’s Golden Visa has come out as a key to living, working, and thriving in this futuristic nation. Launched in 2019, the Golden Vista residency program has evolved into a global attraction for talent, investors, and hard-working people. In 2025, with exciting new changes, the Golden visa has become more accessible than ever.
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1: What Is the Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is similar to a VIP pass for the UAE, granting foreigners the right to live, work, or study without requiring a local sponsor. This is slightly different from standard visas, as it offers 5 or 10 years of residency, and in some cases, it also provides a lifetime residency. The Golden Visa is designed to attract high-net-worth individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, students, and even frontline workers, who can contribute to the UAE’s economy.
Why It’s Special:
According to a report, the UAE welcomed 6,700 millionaires in 2024 alone, making it a top destination for foreign residency. The visa comes with perks, such as exemption from income tax and the ability to sponsor family members, making it a game-changer for individuals.
2: Who Can Get The Golden Visa?
Mark our world! The golden ticket to UAE residency isn’t just for the ultra-rich. In 2025, the government implemented several changes, and the program has since expanded to include a diverse audience. Here’s who can step into the spotlight:
- Investors: Those investing AED 2 million (USD 544,500) in property, investment funds, or businesses.
- Entrepreneurs: Startup founders with an approved business plan or a project generating AED 1 million annually.
- Talented Professionals: Scientists, doctors, engineers, and artists with notable achievements, like PhD holders or award winners.
- Outstanding Students: High school grads with a GPA of 3.8+ or university students in fields like AI or biotech.
- Frontline Professionals: Nurses, teachers, and content creators with significant contributions.
- New in 2025 Nomination-Based Applicants: Professionals from India and Bangladesh (with plans to include China) can secure lifetime residency for a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (USD 27,225), with no property investment needed.
3: Why Everyone Loves the Golden Visa
The Golden Visa comes with several benefits and is like a treasure in Dubai. Here’s what you get:
- Long-Term Residency: 5 or 10 years, renewable, or lifetime for nomination-based visas.
- No Sponsor Needed: Freedom to live and work without a local partner.
- Family Sponsorship: Bring your spouse, kids, and even parents (for students) to the UAE.
- Flexible Travel: Stay outside the UAE for over six months without losing your visa.
- Business Freedom: Run a company, hire staff, or pursue professional work.
- Permanent Nomination-Based Visa: Unlike property-linked visas, this one stays valid even if you sell assets.
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4: What is a Nomination-Based Visa?
The UAE government has recently introduced a nomination-based Golden Visa in 2025, making residency more inclusive. Previously, you needed to invest AED 2 million (USD 544,500) in property or business. Now, eligible professionals from India and Bangladesh can secure lifetime residency for a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (USD 27,225).
Please note that this is a pilot program, linked to the UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) of 2022, and it targets individuals contributing to sectors such as culture, trade, science, startups, or finance.
How It Works:
- Applicants undergo a rigorous review by the Rayad Group, which includes anti-money laundering, criminal, and social media checks.
- The UAE government makes the final call.
- Successful applicants can bring family, employ staff, and engage in business without asset-linked restrictions.
5: How to Get Your Visa
Getting your Golden visa residency in the UAE is quite easy; the process is very simple, however, you’ll still require outside support from experts such as Universus Consulting to ensure your documents are aligned.
- Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet the criteria (investment, skills, or nomination-based qualifications).
- Gather Documents:
- Passport copies and photos.
- Proof of investment (e.g., property contract) or professional credentials (e.g., degrees, awards).
- For nomination-based vetting, provide background details.
- Health insurance and proof of housing (e.g., Ejari tenancy contract).
- Apply:
- Investment/Talent-Based: Submit via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website (www.icp.gov.ae) or Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD).
- Nomination-Based: Apply through Rayad Group’s portal, One Vasco centres, or VFS Global in India/Bangladesh.
- Pay Fees: AED 100,000 for nomination-based visas; investment-based fees vary (AED 2,000–5,000 for processing).
- Get Approved: Processing times range from 3 to 30 days, depending on the emirate and visa type. The “One Touch” platform simplifies applications and renewals.
Also Read: UAE Blue Visa- What is it and who should Apply?
6: How much will it cost me?
The Golden Visa’s cost depends on your choice; however, here’s a quick summary:
- Investment-Based: AED 2 million (USD 544,500) for property or business, plus processing fees (AED 2,000–5,000).
- Talent/Student-Based: Minimal fees (AED 1,000–3,000) if you qualify via achievements or GPA.
- Nomination-Based: AED 100,000 (USD 27,225) one-time fee, covering lifetime residency.
7: What’s Changing in the Golden Visa in 2025?
We can’t ignore the fact that the nomination-based visa is shaking up Dubai’s property market. Previously, Indian investors flocked to real estate for residency, driving AED 2 million in property purchases. Experts notes this shift may reduce speculative buying in mid-market segments, as residency is now accessible without property investment.
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The Future of Golden Visa, What’s Next?
The Golden Visa is evolving to make the UAE a global hub for talent. The nomination-based pilot, initially launched in India and Bangladesh, may be expanded to China and other CEPA nations. According to reports, the UAE’s ranking as the top destination for millionaires (Henley & Partners, 2024) ensures its appeal will grow. With this, we can be sure that the UAE’s Golden Visa is going to be a passport to a life of opportunity in a tax-free, dynamic nation. Whether you’re investing millions, showcasing your skills, or securing the new nomination-based golden ticket to UAE residency, this program opens doors to live, work, and dream big.