Golden Visa UAE 2025: Eligibility, Cost and How to Apply

The United Arab Emirates continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for talent, investment and innovation. A central part of this vision is the Golden Visa UAE, a long-term residency programme designed to attract and retain people who can contribute significantly to the country's economy and society. For anyone applying in 2025, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria, the costs involved and the application process.

This guide from Nour Attorneys explains the Golden Visa UAE in 2025: the categories under which you can qualify, the financial commitments involved, and the steps to secure long-term residency. Whether you are an investor, entrepreneur, scientist, professional or exceptional talent, a successful application depends on accurate information and sound guidance.

Related: Explore our real estate law advisory services in Dubai, including legal title verification for property investors in the UAE.

Understanding the Golden Visa UAE Programme

The Golden Visa UAE programme was launched in 2019 and significantly expanded in 2022. It grants eligible foreign nationals a 5 or 10-year renewable residency visa.

The initiative aims to create a stable and attractive environment for individuals and families who want to live, work or study in the UAE. It offers benefits such as 100% foreign ownership of businesses and the ability to sponsor family members. The programme reflects the UAE's commitment to building a diversified, knowledge-based economy.

If you are considering long-term residency, you need to understand how the Golden Visa works in detail. Our team at Nour Attorneys handles visa services in Dubai and provides tailored advice so that your application meets the latest regulations.

Golden Visa UAE 2025 Eligibility Categories

In 2025, the Golden Visa UAE continues to cover a broad range of applicants. The main categories are investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, professionals, exceptional talents, outstanding students and graduates, and humanitarian pioneers. Each category has specific requirements aimed at attracting high-value contributions to the UAE.

Related: Explore our second passport services for expert legal guidance in the UAE.

Investors

You can qualify as an investor through several routes, mainly real estate or public investment. The key requirements usually concern the value and nature of the investment.

• Real estate: minimum investment of AED 2,000,000. The property must be fully owned, not mortgaged. It can be off-plan from approved developers.
• Public investment: minimum investment of AED 2,000,000, in a fund, a company or a commercial licence.

Entrepreneurs

To qualify, entrepreneurs must own, or be a partner in, a startup registered in the UAE, and meet specific criteria on capital and innovation. The startup must be registered in the UAE under the SME category and generate annual revenues of at least AED 1 million.

Scientists and Professionals

This category targets highly qualified individuals in fields such as engineering, medicine, technology and the natural sciences. Applicants typically need a PhD or Master's degree from a top university, along with significant professional experience and contributions to their field.

Professionals must hold a valid employment contract in the UAE and be classified in the first or second occupational level under the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) classification, with a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000.

Exceptional Talents

People with exceptional talent in arts, culture, sports, digital technology and other vital sectors can apply. This often requires a recommendation or approval from a relevant government entity, such as the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority or the Emirates Youth Foundation.

Outstanding Students and Graduates

High-achieving students from UAE secondary schools and universities, as well as graduates of the top 100 universities worldwide, can be nominated for the Golden Visa. Specific academic performance thresholds apply.

Humanitarian Pioneers

Individuals who have made significant contributions to humanitarian work, including volunteers, members of international organisations and recipients of humanitarian awards, are eligible.

Cost of a Golden Visa UAE Application

The cost of a Golden Visa UAE application varies with the category, the length of the visa (5 or 10 years) and whether you apply from inside or outside the UAE. Costs typically include application fees, medical examination fees and Emirates ID fees. These figures are approximate and subject to change by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).

• Application fee: AED 150 - 300
• Medical examination: AED 700 - 1,000
• Emirates ID (10 years): AED 1,000 - 1,200
• Visa stamping (10 years): AED 1,000 - 1,500
• Total (approximate): AED 2,850 - 4,000

Additional costs may apply for dependent family members. For a precise breakdown of costs and a smooth application, we strongly recommend consulting an immigration lawyer in Dubai.

How to Apply for the Golden Visa UAE in 2025

You can start a Golden Visa UAE application through several channels, including the ICP website, Amer centres or authorised typing centres. The general steps are straightforward, but careful document preparation and close adherence to the guidelines are critical.

1. Determine eligibility: Identify the category under which you qualify and gather all necessary supporting documents. This is the most important first step.
2. Prepare documents: These include passports, photographs, educational certificates, proof of investment, business licences and any required recommendation letters from the relevant authorities.
3. Submit the application: Apply online via the ICP website or in person at an Amer centre. Make sure all forms are filled in accurately and all documents are uploaded or submitted correctly.
4. Medical examination: Undergo a mandatory medical fitness test at an approved health centre in the UAE.
5. Emirates ID application: Apply for your Emirates ID, which is essential for all UAE residents.
6. Visa stamping: Once approved, your Golden Visa will be stamped in your passport.

We advise seeking professional legal support with the application, especially for unusual cases or specific investment categories. Our lawyers can guide you through every step and help ensure you comply with all regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

The Golden Visa UAE programme in 2025 offers investors, entrepreneurs and talented individuals a strong opportunity to establish a long-term presence in one of the world's most dynamic economies. With its attractive benefits and wide range of eligibility routes, it remains a sought-after residency option. Understanding the criteria, planning for the costs and following the application process carefully are key to a successful outcome. Nour Attorneys is committed to providing comprehensive legal support to help you achieve your goals in the UAE.

Related Services: Explore our Golden Visa UAE and ADGM visa services for practical legal support in this area.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should seek professional legal advice tailored to their specific circumstances before making any decisions or taking any action based on the content of this article.

Nour Attorneys Team

Additional Resources

Explore more of our insights on related topics:

• Property Owner Visa Dubai 2025: Eligibility, Cost and How to Apply
• Golden Visa UAE: Complete Application Guide for 2025
• UAE Golden Visa: Complete Guide for Investors and Entrepreneurs
• Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs: How Company Formation Qualifies You in the UAE (2025 Guide)