The United Arab Emirates has firmly established itself not just as a global hub for business and travel, but as a premier destination for long-term talent, investment, and innovation. Through one of the world’s most advanced and flexible residency visa systems, the UAE is actively building a sustainable future powered by the brightest minds.
In a landmark 2025 update, the government has dramatically enhanced its prestigious Golden Visa program, extending global consular services, a privilege once reserved for Emirati citizens, to its Golden Visa holder long-term residents.
The United Arab Emirates has once again enhanced its pioneering Golden Visa program, introducing a significant update that offers unprecedented global support to its long-term residents. In a landmark move, the government has extended a suite of consular services to Golden Visa holders traveling abroad, a benefit previously reserved for UAE citizens.
Announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) at GITEX Global 2025, this initiative solidifies the UAE’s commitment to creating a secure and attractive environment for the world’s leading talents and investors.. This initiative is a direct result of a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
Officials emphasized that this move is part of a broader national strategy, aligning with the “Year of Community” initiative. The goal is to create a comprehensive support system that reinforces the UAE’s position as a leading global hub for talent, simplifies procedures for distinguished residents, and provides a secure environment that reflects the nation’s values of generosity and excellence.
This first-of-its-kind initiative provides Golden Visa holders and their families with crucial support and protection, no matter where they are in the world. The new services include:
A dedicated hotline and support system are now available around the clock for Golden Visa holders facing emergencies abroad, from lost documents to crisis situations.
If a Golden Visa holder’s passport is lost or damaged while traveling, UAE missions abroad can now issue an electronic Return Document within 30 minutes, ensuring a smooth and swift return to the UAE.
Golden Visa holders will now be included in the UAE’s emergency and crisis response plans. This means in the event of a natural disaster or crisis in a foreign country, they will receive the same level of care and evacuation support as Emirati nationals.
The service also facilitates the repatriation and burial procedures for Golden Visa holders who pass away abroad, coordinating with relevant authorities to ease the burden on their families during difficult times.
Beyond the new consular services, the Golden Visa provides substantial advantages:
Holders can remain outside the country for any length of time without their visa becoming invalid.
Holders can sponsor their spouse, children (sons up to 25, unmarried daughters regardless of age), and children of determination without any age restrictions.
It is a self-sponsored visa, providing complete independence.
A 6-month entry permit with multiple entries is granted to finalize the residency procedures.
This expansion of services is more than just a procedural update; it’s a powerful statement. It elevates the status of Golden Visa holders and demonstrates the UAE’s long-term commitment to the individuals and families who contribute to its economy and society.
By providing this level of global security, the UAE reinforces its position as a premier destination for talent, investment, and innovation, offering a stable and supportive environment for residents both within its borders and beyond.
Requires ownership of a property (or a portfolio of properties) with a total value of at least AED 2 million. This includes off-plan properties from approved local real estate companies, and the property can be mortgaged through specific local banks.
An investment of at least AED 2 million in an accredited local investment fund, or holding a commercial/industrial license with a paid-up capital of the same amount. The investment must be retained for at least two years.
Founders of a technical or future-oriented project based on risk and innovation. This requires an approval letter from an accredited business incubator (like Hub71 or Area 2071) and the relevant authorities in the Emirate.
Professionals holding a bachelor’s degree in key fields (as classified by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation – MOHRE) with a valid employment contract and a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000. Executive Directors require a minimum salary of AED 50,000 and at least 5 years of experience.
This is a broad, nomination-based category. It includes:
High-achieving high school students (with a minimum score of 95%) and distinguished graduates from UAE universities or the world’s top 100 universities.
The 5-year Green Visa is a revolutionary step towards greater flexibility, allowing skilled individuals to self-sponsor their residency without needing a company or national sponsor. It’s perfectly suited for the modern workforce.
For holders of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a valid employment contract in a skilled profession, earning a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000.
Individuals who obtain a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and can prove an annual income of at least AED 360,000 for the previous two years.
Individuals who establish or partner in a commercial enterprise with an investment value of at least AED 1 million.
This visa includes a generous 6-month grace period after expiry or cancellation, giving holders ample time to find new opportunities.
Beyond the flagship Golden and Green visas, the UAE provides a comprehensive range of options tailored to specific needs.
The most common residency route, sponsored by an employer and typically valid for two years. The process is straightforward: secure a job offer, and your employer will manage the application for an entry permit, medical fitness test, and the final Emirates ID and residence visa stamping.
An accessible entry point for real estate investors. Purchasing a ready-to-move-in property valued at AED 750,000 or more grants the owner a two-year renewable residency visa.
This sponsor-free visa empowers skilled professionals and recent graduates from the world’s top 500 universities to search for employment directly within the UAE. It is available for 60, 90, or 120 days.
Sponsored by the accredited university or college of enrollment, this visa is typically valid for one year and is renewed annually for the duration of the study program.
For professionals employed by companies outside the UAE, this one-year visa allows them to reside in the UAE while working remotely. Applicants must prove they have a monthly income of at least USD 3,500.
The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) continually emphasizes that all applications and official information should be sourced directly from government channels. Applicants are advised to use the official ICP website (icp.gov.ae) and smart application to ensure they receive accurate information and follow the correct procedures.
Start by identifying which category best fits your qualifications and ambitions.
This is non-negotiable for most professionals categories and student visas. Your educational degrees must be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your home country, then by the UAE Embassy there, and finally by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in the UAE.
All applications and the most current information are on the official government channels. The primary authorities are the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai. Their websites (icp.gov.ae and gdrfad.gov.ae) are your only trusted sources.
Once you enter the UAE on an entry permit, you must complete:
The UAE’s visa system is a strategic invitation to global talent, built on security, innovation, and a clear vision for the future. With the long-term security of the Golden Visa and the unmatched flexibility of the Green Visa, there are clear paths to residency for the world’s best and brightest. The recent addition of global consular support proves the UAE’s deep commitment, making it one of the best places to live, work, and build a future.
Understanding the specific requirements for each Golden visa category, from correct certificate attestation to choosing the best investment option, is the key to a successful application. If you are ready to take the next step and need professional support to ensure your application meets all official criteria, our team is here to help. We can guide you through the UAE Golden visa process and help turn your goal of UAE residency into a reality.
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