What makes the UAE’s Golden Visa a powerful document for foreign nationals?

More than 85% of the UAE’s population is made up of foreign nationals and expatriates who contribute significantly to the country’s GDP of nearly £400bn. However, until half a decade ago, the normal visa policies limited the scope of retaining quality overseas talent and wealthy investors to stay for longer durations in the Emirates. To house foreign human capital and investments for longer, the UAE Government launched the popular Golden Visa scheme in 2019. As per the new policy, individuals with exceptional talent or investments worth over AED 2 million are eligible for non-sponsored, long-term residence of up to 10 years and many other benefits.

Additional perks beyond long-term residency

Golden Visa holders in the UAE enjoy many benefits, such as sponsoring family members, flexible stay options, and discounts on services like education, healthcare, and hospitality. The number of applications grows each year, with the UAE Government issuing hundreds of thousands of Golden Visas, including 158,000 in 2023 alone.

More and more property investors and people looking for long-term stability and capital growth are applying for this opportunity to live, work, and invest in the UAE, taking advantage of its favourable policies.

Eligibility criteria for a UAE Golden Visa

From skilled professionals like athletes, actors and doctors to investors and entrepreneurs , and even students, there is a diverse pool of individuals who can apply for a Golden Visa. For every category, some special documents and proofs need to be submitted to the respective Emirate’s foreign affairs and residency agency, which is in charge of accepting or declining applications.

The category of people who can apply for a Golden Visa include

Property investor

Someone who has investments in a UAE property or properties worth AED 2 million and more.

Corporate & public investment

A person with investments worth over AED 2 million in a public fund or corporate entity and a tax certificate stating not less than AED 250,000 paid in annual taxes.

Entrepreneurs

Owners of business ventures with an investment of at least AED 500,000

Students

Outstanding students with exceptional potential backed by excellent grades for top UAE and global universities.

Skilled professionals

Doctors, engineers, IT specialists and other highly skilled professionals from diverse fields are eligible for the Golden Visa.

The attractive benefits of a Golden Visa

A UAE Golden Visa offers plenty of benefits to its recipients, and property investors get exclusive access to the country’s many investor and business-friendly policies.

No sponsor needed

Golden Visa holders enjoy the freedom to live and work in the UAE without a sponsor. This gives them more independence compared to traditional visas.

Sponsorship for family

Be it a spouse, children or parents and dependents of any age, visa holders can sponsor family members for the entire tenure of their visa.

Long-term residency

The visa lasts up to 10 years, offering security and peace of mind, with no need to renew every two years as before.

Healthcare and education

Golden Visa holders and their families can access the UAE’s excellent healthcare system and top-quality schools.

Business ease

Investors can start or grow businesses in the UAE’s free zones, benefiting from 100% foreign ownership, no corporate taxes, and simplified regulations.

Benefits for property investors

Leading Emirates such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah have been recognised as hotspots for property investments, with high rental yields and investor-friendly policies.

No income tax

One of the biggest benefits of working, investing and building wealth in the UAE is that the government does not levy any tax on personal income. This big benefit provides an opportunity for investors to maximise their returns on capital gains and rental income.

High rental yields

The UAE is home to one of the most lucrative rental markets in the world where demand is constantly high providing yields of up to 10%. This is much higher than many other developed property markets across the globe.

Diversification opportunities

The UAE’s thriving property market offers lucrative investment opportunities for those looking to diversify their portfolios or acquire long-term assets.

Transparency and safety

The UAE government continues to launch measures aimed at increasing transparency, safeguarding investor interests and providing an environment to promote real estate growth.

Exclusive perks

Moreover, by holding a Golden Visa, property investors can enjoy special discounts on utility bills, school fees and healthcare services.

The UAE is a popular choice for international investors as it provides top-quality infrastructure, high rental returns and no personal income taxes. The Golden Visa offers more freedom and flexibility for residency, giving investors a safe way to grow their wealth and enjoy a high standard of living.

For overseas investors, Benham & Reeves is at the forefront of bringing top Dubai properties across landmark developments and exciting areas. Contact our local UAE branch to learn more about investing in the UAE.