What is Golden Visa UAE: Everything Need To Know?
Since its implementation, the UAE Golden Visa system has generated quite a buzz among expatriates looking to secure permanent residency in the United Arab Emirates. This long-term residency visa, known as the Golden Visa, allows foreign talents to live, work, and study in the UAE for up to 10 years. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of the Golden Visa UAE, including eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and recent updates.
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What is Golden Visa UAE?
The Golden Visa is a strategic initiative by the UAE government designed to attract foreign investment and expertise to the country. It offers a range of benefits, including the ability to live and work in the UAE, access to quality education and healthcare, and the ability to sponsor family members for residence visas. The initial validity of the Golden Visa is 10 years, with an option for renewal.
Golden Visa UAE Latest News and Rules
Eligibility Criteria for Graduates
Recent graduates from accredited universities outside the UAE can now obtain a renewable Golden Visa for a period of 10 years. This visa allows them to reside in the UAE without the need for a sponsor or host, with the purpose of working, investing, setting up a business, or settling in the country. To be eligible, graduates must meet specific criteria:
- Possess a passport with a validity of no less than 6 months.
- Have graduated from a university listed among the top 100 in the world.
- Attain a cumulative average of at least 3.5 degrees for bachelor’s graduates.
- Have graduated within the last 2 years, with the certificate approved by the Ministry of Education.
Application Process
Applying for the Golden Visa can be done through various channels available 24/7, including the UAECIP website or smart application. Applicants can also utilize the UAE digital identity or a username to access the smart services system. The process involves filling in the required data, attaching necessary documents, and paying the service fees.
Golden Visa UAE Benefits and Advantages
The Golden Visa offers a range of benefits, including:
- An entry visa for six months with multiple entries followed by the issuance of residency permits.
- A long-term, renewable residence visa valid for 10 years.
- Self-sponsorship for the visa.
- The ability to stay outside the UAE for extended periods without visa nullification.
- The option to sponsor family members, including spouses, children, and parents, without additional deposits.
- Sponsoring an unlimited number of domestic helpers.
- Allowing family members to stay in the UAE even in the event of the primary visa holder’s passing.
- Emirate-Specific Benefits
- Abu Dhabi
- Golden Visa holders in Abu Dhabi are entitled to discounts and offers on various services including cars, property, healthcare, hospitality, and banking.
Dubai
Golden Visa holders in Dubai can take a UAE driver’s test without needing additional lessons if they hold a driving license from their home country. Additionally, outstanding expatriate students and their families in Dubai are eligible for a 10-year Golden Visa and discounts for pursuing higher education in international university branches.
Golden Visa UAE Expanded Categories
The UAE government has expanded the categories eligible for the Golden Visa to include various professions and fields of expertise. These categories include:
- Preachers and religious researchers
- Real estate investors
- Public investors
- Entrepreneurs and startup owners
- Exceptional talents in various fields
- Executives
- Specialists in engineering and science
- Scientists
- Skilled professionals
- Students with exceptional academic excellence
- Humanitarian pioneers
- Doctors and nurses
- Exceptional coders
Golden Visa UAE Price and Validity
The price of the Golden Visa varies based on the category, ranging from AED 2,800 to AED 4,800. The validity of the Golden Visa has been extended to 10 years, making it an even more attractive option for those looking to live and work in the UAE.
The Golden Visa UAE presents a unique opportunity for foreign talents, investors, and skilled professionals to establish long-term residency in the UAE. With its extended validity and a wide range of benefits, it solidifies the UAE’s position as a global hub for business and investment.