The UAE Golden Visa agenda strives to draw skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs by offering long-term living and a range of perks, such as tax-free earnings and top-quality living standards.
For employees earning at least Dh30,000 a month, the Golden Visa provides several advantages. These include numerous entry access, expanded living periods, and the capability to support family members. UAE Golden Visa holders are also allowed to live and work in the UAE without requiring a regional sponsor or employer. This makes it an attractive choice for those looking to commence a company or fund in the UAE.
- Golden Visa for Skilled Professionals: Eligibility and Application Process
Golden Visa for Skilled Professionals: Eligibility and Application Process
Experts and skilled workers are qualified for the UAE Golden Visa if they fulfill precise standards. These criteria include having a valid employment contract with a job classified as level 1 or level 2 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre).
- Level 1 includes Managers and Business Executives.
- Level 2 covers professionals in fields such as Science, Engineering, Healthcare, Education, Business and Management, Information Technology, Law, Sociology, and Culture.
In addition, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree (BA) or higher and meet a minimum salary requirement of Dh30,000 or more.
Application Requirements
Here are some of the essential requirements to obtain a UAE Golden Visa:
- For mainland employees: A Ministry of Labour contract is required, showing a monthly salary of at least Dh30,000.
- For free zone employees: A salary certificate from the relevant free zone authority is needed, confirming the salary meets the Dh30,000 threshold.
Some immigration experts note that professionals in the UAE must have a basic monthly salary of Dh30,000 to qualify.
Other Required Documents Include:
- Bank Statements: Provide six months of bank statements showing the monthly salary deposits. If the salary is transferred to another account immediately after deposit, a second bank statement will be required to show this.
- Degree Certificate: A bachelor’s degree (or higher) must be attested by the UAE embassy in your home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Equivalency of the degree in the UAE should also be provided.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): A letter from your employer (on company letterhead) stating that the company has no objection to you applying for the UAE Golden Visa. The letter should be signed by an HR manager or authorized representative and stamped by the company.
- Golden Visa Nomination Letter: A letter from specific ministries that supports your application and verifies your qualifications and eligibility for the UAE Golden Visa. This note is an essential element of the application procedure and is issued by the relevant authorities.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance for both the applicant and their family members must be provided as part of the application process, in accordance with local requirements.
- Other Documents: A copy of the applicant’s passport, including the visa page, and one passport-sized photo.
This list of requirements and criteria must be fulfilled to successfully apply for the UAE Golden Visa as a skilled professional.
How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the UAE Golden Visa. The application process varies slightly depending on your location within the country.
- For Applicants in Dubai: You can apply through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). This can be done via the GDRFA’s smart application or their official website. Alternatively, you can visit one of the GDRFA-approved typing or visa processing centers, where staff will assist you in completing the forms and submitting the required documents.
- For Applicants in Other Emirates: If you’re living outside Dubai, the application is handled by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICA), which manages residency and citizenship across the UAE. You can apply online through the ICA’s website or visit one of the ICA-approved typing centers for in-person help.
Golden Visa Nomination Process
Before you can apply, you may need a nomination letter, which is an official recommendation to start the Golden Visa application.
Here’s who can nominate you:
- People in Culture and Art: A nomination letter from the Dubai Culture Authority or the Ministry of Culture.
- Innovators and Inventors: A nomination letter from the Ministry of Economy or the relevant local authority.
- Athletes: A nomination letter from the General Sports Authority or the Dubai Sports Council.
- Digital Talent: A nomination letter from the Emirates Council for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transactions.
- Exceptional Talent in Other Fields: A nomination letter from the Dubai Future Authority.
Once you receive your nomination, you can proceed with completing the remaining steps of your application. This will involve submitting any additional documents and going through the final review and approval process with the GDRFA or ICA.
How to Apply for the UAE Golden Visa: GDRFA (Dubai) and ICP (Federal) Process
1. Applying Through GDRFA (Dubai)
Digital Channels (Website/Smart Application)
1. Log in to the smart services system using UAE Pass or your username.
2. Search for the Golden Visa service.
3. Fill in the application form with the required details.
4. Pay the applicable fees:
- Residence permit fee: Dh1,100
- Knowledge fee: Dh10
- Innovation fee: Dh10
- Fee within the country: Dh500
- Delivery fee: Dh20
Note: The issuance fee increases by Dh100 annually if the residency is more than two years.
Customer Happiness Centre:
1. Visit the nearest Customer Happiness Centre.
2. Take a number and wait your turn.
3. Submit your completed application and required documents to the customer service agent.
4. Pay the service fee.
Amer Service Centre:
1. Visit an Amer Service Centre.
2. Take a number and wait your turn.
3. Submit your completed application and necessary documents.
4. Pay the service fee.
Applying Through ICP (Federal)
1. Visit the ICP website
2. Scroll down to the ‘Services’ section on the left panel and select the Golden Visa option.
3. Choose the category under which you wish to apply and follow the process.
4. Create an account on the ICP portal:
5. After your account is verified, log in and apply for nomination.
6. Submit your completed application.
7. You can submit your application through the website, mobile app, or in person at a registration center.
8. Complete the process and pay the required fees.
9. You will receive an SMS and email confirming that your application has been received, followed by updates on the processing status.
Golden Visa for Other Categories
The UAE Golden Visa is aimed at attracting investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals across a variety of fields, including science, technology, and sports.
Here are some categories eligible for the Golden Visa:
- Investors: Individuals wishing to invest in the UAE economy.
- Entrepreneurs: Those looking to start and run business ventures in the country.
- Talented Professionals: Skilled individuals in areas like science, knowledge, and sports.
- Outstanding Students: Students who graduate with a GPA of 3.8 or higher from accredited UAE high schools or universities.
- PhD Holders and Specialized Professionals: Includes doctors, engineers, and experts in critical fields like computer engineering, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence.
- Gaming Professionals: Dubai also offers a 10-year Gaming Visa to attract top gamers and content creators, positioning the city as a hub for gaming innovation.
- Private Sector Educators: Exceptional teachers in Dubai can apply for the Golden Visa, recognizing those who have contributed to shaping the future of education in the city.
- Private Sector Educators: Exceptional teachers in Dubai can apply for the Golden Visa, recognizing those who have contributed to shaping the future of education in the city.
There is a powerful and developing need among expats or foreigners for the UAE’s Golden Visa, as it comes with immense benefits and unparalleled opportunities. By carefully following every step and qualifying the eligibility criteria, Start Any Business can help you secure this prestigious visa with ease. With expert guidance and personalized assistance, you can navigate the process confidently and get this visa in your hand.
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