Latest: Continuous intake. No round-based selection. Applications accepted year-round subject to programme rules and country caps.
At $1,000, the Golden Visa is the 38th-cheapest of the 62 skilled-work visas Transita tracks, above the $480 median. Its 2-month average processing time ranks it 26th-fastest, quicker than 59% of the others.
About the Golden Visa
The Golden Visa is United Arab Emirates's skilled worker visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent residence. Long-term, self-sponsored residence granted to investors (about USD 540,000 in capital or property) and to exceptional talent such as scientists, doctors, and PhD holders, who face no investment requirement. Talent and top-tier categories are valid for 10 years and renewable.
Applications are processed in 1–3 months on average. Government fees start at $1,000, and the visa is valid for 10 years.
The Golden Visa is suited to work in tech, start a company.
Weighing United Arab Emirates against another destination? See how it stacks up on visa speed, cost, and permanent residency:
Eligibility requirements
Official sources: Golden Residence · u.ae
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Can lead to PR in approximately undefined years.
Validity period
10 years
How to apply for the Golden Visa
- 01
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials, employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 02
Submit your Golden Residence application
File online through the official United Arab Emirates immigration portal and pay the government fee of $1,000. Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 03
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 04
Receive decision (1–3 months)
Standard processing takes 1–3 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
What it costs
Attorney fees and document costs not included. Total spend is typically 2–5x the government fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main requirements for the Golden Visa?
Long-term, self-sponsored residence granted to investors (about USD 540,000 in capital or property) and to exceptional talent such as scientists, doctors, and PhD holders, who face no investment requirement. Talent and top-tier categories are valid for 10 years and renewable.
How long does the Golden Visa take to process?
Processing time for the Golden Visa is typically 1–3 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official United Arab Emirates immigration website for current processing times before applying.
How much does the Golden Visa cost?
The government application fee for the Golden Visa is $1,000 USD. Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee. Budget accordingly before starting your application.
Does the Golden Visa lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The Golden Visa grants permanent residence directly on approval.
Do I need a job offer for the Golden Visa?
No. The Golden Visa does not require a prior job offer. You can apply based on your qualifications, work history. This makes it particularly attractive for applicants who want to move first and job-search on arrival.