Golden Visa Renewal in Dubai: Complete 2025 Guide for Long-Term Residents

The Golden Visa renewal process in Dubai has become one of the most important topics for investors, professionals, and families who wish to continue enjoying long-term residency in the UAE. This updated 2025 guide explains every requirement, step, and condition in detail to help applicants renew their Golden Visa smoothly and without delays.

Dubai continues to attract global talent and high-net-worth individuals by offering a stable economy, world-class infrastructure, and a simplified immigration system. The Golden Visa renewal framework reflects this vision by providing a clear, flexible, and investor-friendly pathway for long-term residence.

Understanding Golden Visa Renewal in Dubai

The Golden Visa offers 10-year renewable residency for eligible individuals, including investors, property owners, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent. When the visa nears expiration, holders are required to renew it to maintain uninterrupted residency and associated privileges.

Core Benefits That Continue with Renewal

• Long-term residency without a sponsor

• Full freedom to live, work, and study in the UAE

• Ability to sponsor dependents

• No restriction on time spent outside the UAE

• Access to Dubai’s business and economic opportunities

• Eligibility for long-term planning and property ownership

These benefits make renewal essential for those building a future in Dubai.

Eligibility Categories for Golden Visa Renewal

Dubai allows renewal under multiple categories. Applicants must demonstrate continuous eligibility in at least one of the following:

1. Real Estate Investors

• Must retain a property (or combined properties) valued at AED 2 million or more

• Mortgage properties qualify if 50% of the value is paid

2. Entrepreneurs

• Owning a successful business

• Holding an approved startup with a minimum valuation

3. Skilled Professionals

• Must continue employment in specialized fields

• Salary requirement typically AED 30,000 per month or higher

4. Exceptional Talents

• Artists, athletes, inventors, doctors, scientists, researchers

• Must continue contributing to their field

5. Outstanding Students

• High GPA requirements in approved universities

Eligibility remains tied to maintaining the same level of achievement or investment.

Golden Visa Renewal Requirements in Dubai

To renew the visa successfully, applicants must prepare updated documents and meet specific criteria. Requirements vary slightly depending on the Golden Visa category, but the core list includes:

Required Documents

• Valid passport

• Current Golden Visa copy

• Emirates ID

• Recent photograph

• Medical fitness certificate

• Valid UAE health insurance

• Updated property title deed (for property investors)

• Salary certificate (for professionals)

• Company documents (for investors/entrepreneurs)

• NOC from bank (if property under mortgage)

• Professional accreditation certificates (if applicable)

Key Conditions

• Applicant must fulfill the same conditions as the initial approval

• Property valuation must meet current standards

• Employment or business activity must remain valid

• No criminal record or immigration violations

Golden Visa Renewal Process in Dubai

The renewal process is simple and supported by both online and offline channels. Here is the complete step-by-step method:

Step 1: Gather All Updated Documents

This includes passport, Emirates ID, medical fitness test report, health insurance, and category-specific documents.

Step 2: Submit the Application

You can apply through:

• GDRFA Dubai Portal

• GDRFA Mobile App

• Amer Centers across Dubai

Step 3: Undergo Medical Fitness Test

A standard medical test is required for all residency renewals.

Step 4: Receive Approval Notification

Once documents are verified, approval is typically issued within days.

Step 5: Visa Stamping

After approval, applicants receive their renewed 10-year residency visa and updated Emirates ID.

Golden Visa Renewal Fees in Dubai

Fees vary based on the applicant’s category and whether the application is submitted inside or outside the country.

Typical Fee Structure

• Application fee: AED 2,800 – AED 4,000

• Medical exam fee: AED 700 – AED 1,000

• Emirates ID renewal: AED 800 – AED 1,200

• Insurance: varies based on plan

• Additional fees for investors or mortgage verification

The total cost usually ranges between AED 4,000 and AED 7,500.

Golden Visa Renewal for Property Owners

Property owners are one of the largest groups renewing the Golden Visa in Dubai. Renewal depends heavily on property valuation, ownership status, and mortgage payment progress.

Key Renewal Criteria for Property Investors

• Property valuation must be AED 2 million or more

• Can combine multiple properties

• Off-plan properties acceptable with updated Oqood

• Mortgage must meet payment requirement

• Bank NOC may be required

What Happens if Property Value Drops?

If valuation falls below AED 2 million:

• Investors may purchase additional property

• Combine multiple properties

• Apply under a different category (e.g., entrepreneur, professional)

Golden Visa Renewal Timeline

Most renewals are completed in:

• 3 to 7 working days for standard processing

• 1 to 3 working days for urgent applications

Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or property verification is required.

Common Reasons for Renewal Rejection

Understanding the possible reasons helps applicants avoid mistakes.

Top Rejection Causes

• Property valuation below requirement

• Invalid or expired documents

• Incomplete mortgage payments

• Missing NOC from bank

• Unverified business or employment information

• Medical fitness failure

• Insurance not valid

Applicants should ensure all criteria are met well before expiration.

Can the Golden Visa Be Renewed After Expiry?

Yes. Dubai allows renewal even after the visa expires, but penalties may apply depending on the delay. It is recommended to initiate renewal 1–2 months before expiry.

Benefits of Renewing the Golden Visa in 2025

Renewing ensures continued access to:

• Long-term residency

• Business freedom and 100% ownership

• Sponsorship rights

• Flexibility to stay outside UAE

• Stable investment environment

• High-quality healthcare and education

The UAE continues to expand its Golden Visa privileges, making renewal even more valuable.

Tips for Smooth Golden Visa Renewal

• Start early

• Update property valuation certificates

• Ensure mortgage payments are up to date

• Renew health insurance before applying

• Conduct medical tests through approved centers

• Double-check all documents for accuracy

Proper preparation ensures faster approval.

Conclusion

The Golden Visa renewal process in Dubai is designed to be clear, efficient, and investor-friendly. Whether renewing through property ownership, professional achievement, or entrepreneurship, applicants can secure another decade of stability and opportunity in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Maintaining eligibility and preparing documents early is the key to a seamless renewal experience. With Dubai’s continued growth and expanding benefits for Golden Visa holders, renewing the visa remains a strategic and rewarding decision for long-term residents.

FAQs

1. How long is the Golden Visa valid in Dubai?

The Golden Visa is valid for 10 years and is renewable upon meeting eligibility requirements.

2. When should I renew my Golden Visa?

Renewal is recommended 1–2 months before expiration.

3. Do I need to stay in the UAE to keep my Golden Visa active?

No, Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for unlimited periods.

4. What documents are needed for renewal?

Passport, Emirates ID, medical fitness certificate, health insurance, and category-related documents.

5. What is the minimum property value required for renewal?

Property must be valued at AED 2 million or more.

6. Can I renew if my property value drops?

Yes, but you may need to add more properties or apply under another category.

7. Is a medical test required for Golden Visa renewal?

Yes, a standard medical fitness test is mandatory.

8. How long does the renewal process take?

Typically 3 to 7 working days.

9. Are mortgage properties eligible for renewal?

Yes, if at least 50% of the value is paid.

10. Can joint property owners renew the Golden Visa?

Yes, if each owner’s share meets the eligibility criteria or if applying jointly as spouses.

11. Do I need to renew my Emirates ID?

Yes, Emirates ID renewal is part of the renewal process.

12. What is the renewal cost?

Generally between AED 4,000 and AED 7,500 depending on category and services.

13. Can the Golden Visa be renewed after expiry?

Yes, but penalties may apply depending on the delay.

14. Can professionals renew their Golden Visa without salary increase?

Yes, as long as minimum salary and job designation requirements are still met.

15. How do I apply for Golden Visa renewal?

Through the GDRFA portal, mobile app, or any Amer Center in Dubai.