UAE Golden Visa for Employees Earning Dh30,000: Eligibility and Application Process

The UAE Golden Visa program aims to attract and retain skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs by offering a pathway to long-term residency.

This visa provides various benefits, including tax-free income, world-class living conditions, and the ability to sponsor dependents.

Golden Visa holders can live and work in the UAE without needing a local sponsor or employer, facilitating business activities and investments.

Eligibility for Professionals

Skilled workers and professionals can qualify for a Golden Visa if they meet certain criteria. Applicants must have a valid employment contract in the UAE for positions classified under occupational levels 1 or 2 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre).

• Level 1: Managers and Business Executives
• Level 2: Professionals in fields such as Sciences, Engineering, Health, Education, Business and Management, IT, Law, Sociology, and Culture.

Additionally, applicants need to hold a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum monthly salary of Dh30,000.

Application Requirements

To apply for a Golden Visa, expatriates must provide:

• Employment Contract: For those working in mainland companies, the Ministry of Labour contract must confirm a salary of Dh30,000 or more. Free zone employees require a salary certificate from their respective authority.
• Bank Statements: Six months of bank statements showing regular monthly salary deposits, not just withdrawals, are necessary. If salary deposits are quickly transferred, a second bank statement must confirm this.
• Degree Certificate: An attested bachelor’s degree (or higher) and its equivalency certificate, attested by the UAE embassy in the applicant’s home country and the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, are needed.
• NOC from Employer: A No Objection Certificate from the company on official letterhead, signed by the HR manager or an authorized signatory, is required.
• Nomination Letter: A nomination letter from relevant ministries highlighting qualifications for the Golden Visa program is necessary.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance for the applicant and their family members must be provided.
• Passport and Photo: A valid passport with a visa page and one personal passport-sized photo are required.

Application Process

Eligible individuals can apply for a Golden Visa in two primary ways, depending on their location in the UAE.

1. In Dubai:
   • Use the GDRFA smart application or the official web portal.
   • Alternatively, visit GDRFA-approved typing centers or visa processing centers for assistance.
2. In Other Emirates:
   • Applications must be submitted through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICA), either online or at approved typing centers.

Golden Visa Nominations

The nomination service allows candidates to submit information to initiate the Golden Visa application process. Upon approval of the nomination, applicants will be guided to finalize their applications through GDRFA or ICP.

Specific nominations are required for different categories:

• Cultural and Artistic Talent: Letter from Dubai Culture Authority or Ministry of Culture.
• Innovators and Inventors: Letter from the Ministry of Economy or relevant local authority.
• Athletes: Letter from the General Sports Authority or Dubai Sports Council.
• Digital Talent: Letter from the Emirates Council for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transactions.
• Exceptional Talent: Letter from Dubai Future Authority.

Once nominated, candidates can complete any remaining requirements and submit their applications for final review.

Applying Through GDRFA (Dubai)

To apply through digital channels:

• Log into the smart services system via UAE Pass or username.
• Search for the Golden Visa application service.
• Fill out the application form and pay the applicable fees.

Fees include:

• Residence permit fee: Dh1,100
• Knowledge fee: Dh10
• Innovation fee: Dh10
• In-country fee: Dh500
• Delivery fee: Dh20

Golden Visa for Other Categories

The Golden Visa program also targets investors looking to contribute financially to the UAE, as well as entrepreneurs aiming to establish economic projects. It is designed for talented individuals across various fields, including science, knowledge, and sports.

Outstanding students graduating with a GPA of 3.8 or higher and PhD holders in critical fields like engineering and biotechnology are also eligible. Furthermore, the program includes a specific focus on educators who have excelled in their profession.

Additionally, Dubai has introduced a 10-year Gaming Visa to attract top gamers and content creators, positioning the city as a hub for gaming innovation.

As interest in the UAE’s Golden Visa continues to grow, there are various pathways for obtaining residency without the need for a job, as well as options for expats looking to buy property in the country.