UAE Gold Visa Guide: Dubai Golden Visa, Freelance Visa, Tourist Visa

The UAE Gold Visa is a long-term residency visa designed to attract investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and outstanding students. It is available for 5 or 10 years and provides benefits such as no need for a sponsor, family sponsorship, and business ownership rights.

Step-by-Step Application Process for UAE Gold Visa

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Check if you qualify under any of the following categories:

1. Investors

   • Public investment of AED 2 million or more.
   • Real estate investors with properties worth at least AED 2 million.
   • Business owners with commercial or industrial capital of AED 2 million.

2. Entrepreneurs

   • Own or partner in a startup valued at AED 500,000 or more.
   • Have necessary approvals from UAE authorities and a recognized business incubator.

3. Specialized Talents

   • Doctors, engineers, IT specialists, scientists, and researchers.
   • Must have a valid work contract in the UAE.
   • Approval from relevant UAE government entities.

4. Outstanding Students

   • High school students with exceptional grades (GPA of 3.8 or above).
   • University students from top-ranking institutions.

5. Humanitarian Pioneers & Frontline Heroes

• Those who contributed significantly to humanitarian causes.
• Frontline medical workers recognized for outstanding service.

Also Read : Italy Seasonal Work Visa 2025: Apply Now for Short-Term Jobs in Italy

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Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To apply for the Dubai Golden Visa, you must prepare the following documents:

✅ Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months).
✅ Recent passport-size photograph (as per UAE visa specifications).
✅ UAE Visa Copy (if already residing in the UAE).
✅ Emirates ID (if applicable).
✅ Medical insurance certificate.
✅ Proof of investment/business ownership (for investors & entrepreneurs).
✅ Salary certificate or work contract (for skilled professionals).
✅ Academic transcripts & certificates (for students).
✅ Approval letters from UAE authorities (for specific talent categories).

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Step 3: Apply Online for the UAE Gold Visa

There are two main ways to apply for the Dubai Golden Visa:

Option 1: Online Application

You can apply via the official UAE government portals:

• GDRFA Dubai (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs): https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae
• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP): https://icp.gov.ae

✅ Steps to Apply Online:

1. Visit the website of GDRFA or ICP.
2. Create an account using an Emirates ID or UAE Pass.
3. Select the “Golden Visa” application category.
4. Upload the required documents.
5. Pay the visa application fee.
6. Receive confirmation & track your application online.

Option 2: Apply Through an Approved Amer Center

You can visit Amer Centers in Dubai or UAE for in-person applications.

• Locate an Amer Center near you via the GDRFA website.
• Provide the required documents to the Amer representative.
• Pay the visa processing fee.
• Receive updates via SMS or email.

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Step 4: Medical Test & Biometrics (For First-Time Applicants)

All applicants must pass a medical fitness test and complete biometric verification.

✅ Medical Test Includes:

• Blood test
• Chest X-ray (for tuberculosis screening)

📍 Where to Take the Medical Test?

• Government-approved health centers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates.

✅ Biometrics:

• First-time applicants must provide fingerprints & facial recognition at a UAE immigration center.

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Step 5: Pay the UAE Gold Visa Fees

✅ Golden Visa Cost Breakdown:

Visa Type	Validity	Cost (AED)
Investor Visa	10 Years	AED 5,000 - AED 7,000
Entrepreneur Visa	5 Years	AED 2,500 - AED 4,000
Skilled Professionals	10 Years	AED 4,500 - AED 6,000
Outstanding Students	5-10 Years	AED 2,000 - AED 3,800
Medical Test	-	AED 700 - AED 900
Emirates ID	10 Years	AED 1,200

✅ Additional Charges:

• Dubai Visa Price for Indians: AED 3,800 - AED 6,000
• Dubai Visa Cost for Pakistanis: AED 3,500 - AED 5,500
• Processing Fee: AED 300 - AED 500 (varies by application type)

📌 Note: Prices may change based on UAE immigration policies.

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Step 6: Attend an Interview (If Required)

Some applicants may be required to attend an interview at the UAE immigration office or consulate.

📍 Who Needs an Interview?

• Entrepreneurs & Business Owners (to verify financial stability).
• Doctors, Engineers, & Scientists (for skill verification).
• High-Net-Worth Investors (for due diligence).

✅ Interview Tips:

• Carry original & scanned copies of documents.
• Answer questions confidently about your profession, business, or investment.
• Show proof of funds, income, or assets.

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Step 7: Visa Approval & Issuance

Once approved, you will receive:

✅ Entry Permit (if applying from outside UAE).
✅ Visa stamped on your passport.
✅ Emirates ID issued for long-term residency.

⏳ Processing Time:

• Standard applications: 2-4 weeks.
• Fast-track processing: 5-7 days (available at extra cost).

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Apply for the UAE Gold Visa from Outside the UAE?

Yes, applicants from India, Pakistan, UK, USA, and other countries can apply online before entering the UAE.

2. What Happens If My Visa is Rejected?

If rejected, you will receive a refund minus processing charges. You can reapply with updated documents.

3. Can I Sponsor My Family with a UAE Golden Visa?

Yes, you can sponsor spouses, children, and parents under this visa.

4. What Happens If I Stay Outside UAE for More Than 6 Months?

Golden Visa holders can stay outside UAE for extended periods without losing their residency.

5. Is There a Minimum Salary Requirement?

For skilled professionals, a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000 is required.