How to Apply for UAE Golden Visa Online: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

The UAE Golden Visa has become one of the most sought-after long-term residency programs in the world. With its promise of long-term stability, business opportunities, and the ability to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor, it attracts investors, professionals, students, and talent from across the globe. In this detailed guide, we explain how to apply for the UAE Golden Visa online with clarity and precision so you can complete the entire process smoothly.

What Is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa valid for 5 or 10 years, introduced to attract investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, scientists, top-performing students, exceptional talents, and specialists across various fields.

It offers a pathway to long-term stability, opportunities to build a business, and the privilege to bring your family members—including spouse, children, and in some cases even domestic workers—under your sponsorship.

Some of the key benefits include:

• No need for a local sponsor

• Full residence for 5 or 10 years

• Ability to sponsor family members

• Multiple-entry visa for initial entry

• 100% business ownership

• Renewable residency

Eligibility Categories for UAE Golden Visa

To understand how to apply for the UAE Golden Visa online, you must first know which category you fall under. Below are the major eligibility pathways:

1. Investors in Public Investments

Individuals who invest in UAE-based investment funds may qualify. Requirements include:

• Minimum AED 2 million investment

• Must provide proof of investment and financial standing

2. Real Estate Investors

A popular category with simple rules:

• Investment in property worth AED 2 million or more

• Property can be mortgaged; NOC required from the bank

3. Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs may qualify if they meet:

• Ownership of an existing project with AED 500,000 capital, or

• Approval from business incubators

4. Exceptional Talents

Professionals with recognized achievements in:

• Art

• Culture

• Sports

• Technology

• Innovation

• Medicine

Approval from relevant government authorities is required.

5. Scientists and Researchers

Requires:

• Recommendation from the UAE Council of Scientists

• PhD or Master’s degree in engineering, technology, life sciences, or natural sciences

6. Skilled Professionals

Professionals under MOHRE skill level 1 and 2 with:

• Salary of AED 30,000 or more

• Valid employment contract in UAE

7. Outstanding Students and Graduates

This includes:

• High achievers with a minimum grade of 95%

• University graduates with a GPA of 3.8 or above

How to Apply for UAE Golden Visa Online (Step-by-Step Process)

Applying online is simple and streamlined through UAE’s digital platforms. Here’s a complete process breakdown.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before starting the application, review the criteria for your specific category. Ensure you have documentation to support your eligibility, such as:

• Passport

• Investment documents

• Educational certificates

• Employment contract

• Salary certificates

• Bank statements

• Real estate title deed

Step 2: Use the ICP Smart Services Portal

Go to the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) Smart Services Portal:

https://icp.gov.ae/en/services/

Choose:

• Golden Visa Services

• Then select your category (Investor, Professional, Student, Talent)

Fill in the application form with accurate details.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Depending on your category, upload:

• Passport copy

• Personal photo

• Emirates ID (if applicable)

• Proof of investment or qualifications

• Sponsor and salary documents

• Real estate ownership certificates

Make sure documents are clear and in PDF format.

Step 4: Pay the Online Fees

Application fees vary but generally range between:

• AED 280 to AED 900 for initial entry permit

• AED 2,800 to AED 3,800 for residency issuance

Payment can be done using credit or debit card.

Step 5: Wait for Approval

After submission:

• You will receive notifications through SMS and email

• Processing time is usually 2–7 working days

• In case of missing documents, you will be asked to resubmit

Step 6: Health Check and Emirates ID

Once approved:

• Complete medical fitness test

• Apply for Emirates ID biometric

Both are mandatory to activate your Golden Visa residency.

Step 7: Receive Your Golden Visa

After processing:

• Your residency visa will be stamped on your passport

• Emirates ID will be issued with a 5 or 10-year validity

Required Documents for UAE Golden Visa

The list varies by category, but generally, you will need:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months)

• Passport-size photo

• UAE entry permit or status change document

• Medical fitness certificate

• Emirates ID application

• Proof of investment

• Salary and employment documents

• Academic certificates

• Bank statements for financial proof

Processing Time for UAE Golden Visa

On average, it takes:

• 2–7 days for initial approval

• 5–10 days for visa stamping and Emirates ID processing

Some categories may take longer if government authority approvals are needed.

Cost of UAE Golden Visa Application

Costs vary depending on service provider and eligibility category:

Total expected cost ranges between AED 3,300 to AED 5,700.

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

The Golden Visa offers long-term privileges, such as:

• Residency without sponsorship

• 5 or 10-year validity

• Ability to sponsor family members of any age

• Sponsorship of unlimited domestic helpers

• Easy renewal

• Flexibility to stay outside UAE for extended periods

• Full ownership of businesses

Why Apply for the UAE Golden Visa Online?

The online method is preferred because:

• Fast processing

• Fully digital document upload

• Real-time application tracking

• Secure payment portals

• No need for physical visits

Tips to Ensure Your Application Gets Approved

To increase the chances of success:

• Double-check all uploaded documents

• Ensure your passport copy is clear and valid

• Submit certified translations if required

• Maintain updated bank statements

• Provide correct personal and contact details

• Meet all category criteria before applying

Common Reasons for Rejection

Applications can be rejected due to:

• Incorrect documents

• Insufficient investment proof

• Invalid passport

• Unverified certificates

• Missing financial details

• Lack of approvals from authorities

If your application is rejected, you can resubmit with the correct documents.

Conclusion

Applying online for the UAE Golden Visa is simple when you have the right information and documents ready. Whether you are an investor, professional, or student, the UAE offers one of the most attractive long-term residency programs in the world. By following the step-by-step process above, you can complete your application smoothly and secure your place in the UAE’s thriving economy.

FAQs

1. Can I apply for the UAE Golden Visa online from outside the UAE?

Yes. You can submit your application online from any country.

2. How long is the Golden Visa valid?

The Golden Visa is valid for 5 or 10 years, depending on your category.

3. Can I sponsor my family members under the Golden Visa?

Yes. You can sponsor your spouse, children of any age, and domestic staff.

4. Is a medical test required?

Yes, all applicants must pass a medical fitness test.

5. Do I need to stay in the UAE to maintain my Golden Visa?

No. You can stay outside the UAE for extended periods without losing residency.