A UAE permanent residency is significant for anyone looking to build a future in this booming country. The UAE is known for its stable economy, world-class amenities, and high standard of living, making it a top choice for many. Thankfully, obtaining permanent residency has been made more accessible through various options. Whether you plan to invest in property, start a business, or contribute your skills and expertise, this guide will walk you through the different ways to achieve UAE permanent residency.
With the proper steps, you can enjoy the many long-term benefits of living in the UAE, such as great job opportunities, top-quality healthcare, and a safe, family-friendly environment.
What is a UAE Permanent Residency Visa?
The UAE permanent residency visa allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study there for an extended period, typically 5 to 10 years, with the option to renew. Unlike standard visas, it doesn’t require a local sponsor and offers greater flexibility, including the ability to exit and re-enter the UAE without strict time limits.
Visa holders can sponsor family members, access critical services like healthcare and banking, and even own property or start a business. The UAE offers two main types of long-term residency visas: the Golden Visa and the Green Visa, both designed to provide lasting stability and opportunities for investors, skilled professionals, and entrepreneurs.
Benefits of Permanent Residency in UAE
Here are the key benefits of UAE Permanent Residency Visa:
- Long-Term Visa: Renewable residence visa valid for 5 or 10 years.
- Multiple Entries: Entry visa for six months with multiple entries.
- No Sponsor Needed: No requirement for a local sponsor.
- Flexible Travel: Freedom to exit the UAE for six months without losing residency.
- Family Sponsorship: Sponsor family members, including spouses and children of any age.
- Property and Business Ownership: Ability to purchase property and start a business.
- Financial Services: Open bank accounts, apply for loans, and access other financial services quickly.
- No Personal Tax: No income, property, or capital gains tax.
- Global Mobility: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to around 170 countries.
- Family Security: The family can remain in the UAE until the end of their visa, even if the primary visa holder passes away.
What is a Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is a unique, long-term residency visa in the UAE designed for investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents, students, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline heroes.
Available in both 5-year and 10-year options, the Golden Visa offers a renewable path to living and working in the UAE with a range of unique benefits. Here’s an overview of the different categories and their eligibility criteria:
Investors in Public Investments (10-year visa)
- Eligibility: Foreign investors contributing to UAE investment funds.
- Requirements:
- A minimum investment of AED 2 million in an accredited fund.
- Proof of paying at least AED 250,000 annually in taxes.
- Confirmation that no loans were used for the investment.
Investors in Real Estate (10-year visa)
- Eligibility: Individuals investing in the UAE property market.
- Requirements:
- The local land department confirmed proof of property ownership worth AED 2 million.
- Documentation showing the ability to finance the property through a local bank mortgage if applicable.
Entrepreneurs (5-year visa)
- Eligibility: Owners or part-owners of an economic project or startup in the UAE.
- Requirements:
- A letter from an auditor confirming that the project is worth at least AED 500,000.
- Verification from a UAE authority that the project aligns with the country’s economic goals or focuses on future-oriented sectors.
- Endorsement from an official authority supporting the project.
Specialised Talents (10-year visa)
- Eligibility: Professionals in medicine, science, engineering, the arts, and other creative industries.
- Requirements:
- Scientists: Accreditation from the Emirates Scientists Council or the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medal for Scientific Excellence.
- Creative Talents: Accreditation from the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development.
- Inventors: The Ministry of Economy approved a valuable patent that contributed to the UAE economy.
- Other Exceptional Talents: Documentation of patents or scientific research published in top journals.
- Doctors and Specialists: Must meet two of the following:
- Ph.D. from a top 500 university or 10 years of professional experience.
- Awards or certificates of appreciation.
- Significant contributions to scientific research.
- Published articles or books in respected journals.
- Membership of relevant professional organisations.
- Specialisation in areas prioritised by the UAE.
Outstanding High School Students (5-year visa)
- Eligibility: High-performing students in UAE secondary schools.
- Requirements:
- A minimum grade of 95%.
- A recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education.
Outstanding University Students (10-year visa)
- Eligibility: High-performing students from UAE or top-ranked foreign universities.
- Requirements:
- For UAE universities:
- A GPA of 3.5 (A-class) or 3.8 (B-class).
- Graduation within the last 2 years.
- For foreign universities:
- Graduation from a top 100 global university with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
- Accreditation from the UAE Ministry of Education.
Humanitarian Work Pioneers (10-year visa)
- Eligibility: Individuals with significant contributions to humanitarian work.
- Requirements:
- At least five years working with a regional or international organisation, civil association, or public interest institution.
- Letters of appreciation for humanitarian contributions or donations of at least AED 2 million.
- A recommendation from the Ministry of Community Development or a local authority.
Frontline Heroes (10-year visa)
- Eligibility: Healthcare workers like nurses, medical assistants, and pharmacists who have shown extraordinary efforts during crises.
- Requirement:
- A letter of recommendation from the relevant authority in the applicant’s emirate.
Each category is designed to attract and retain talented individuals, investors, and professionals who contribute to the UAE’s growth and development.
What is a Green Visa?
The Green Visa is a long-term residency visa in the UAE designed for skilled employees, freelancers, and investors or partners. This visa allows holders to live in the UAE for up to 5 years without needing a local sponsor. Here’s a summary of eligibility requirements for each category:
Skilled Employees:
- Must hold a position at the first, second, or third level with a valid employment contract.
- The minimum required monthly salary is AED 15,000.
Freelancers:
- Must secure a permit from MoHRE.
- Must demonstrate financial stability with an annual income of at least AED 360,000 over the past two years or provide proof of economic solvency.
Investors or Partners:
- Must receive approval from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security (ICP).
- A minimum investment of AED 1 million is required.
The Green Visa is designed to attract skilled talent and investors, offering them the flexibility to live and work in the UAE while contributing to its economic growth.
How to get permanent residency in UAE?
To secure permanent residency in the UAE, you must follow these essential steps, starting with obtaining an entry permit from your sponsor. This can be done online or in person through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
Apply for a Residency Visa:
Your sponsor must apply for a Residency Visa through the GDRFA or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs. This can be done online or at a GDRFA office.
Pay the Residency Fee:
When applying, your sponsor must pay the applicable UAE residence fee. The fee amount varies depending on the validity period of your visa.
Receive Your Visa and Emirate ID:
Once your application is approved, you will receive a Residency Visa stamped in your passport. You will also be issued an Emirates ID with the same validity period as your visa.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of permanent residency in the UAE.
Necessary Documents for Permanent Residency in UAE
To ensure a smooth application process for permanent residency in the UAE, prepare the following documents:
- Two passport-sized photos
- Original passport
- Completed application form
- Entry visa
- Proof of good health and character
- If applying with a family visa: birth and marriage certificates
- If applying with a work visa: work contract, trade license, and company documents
- Proof of health insurance policy
Cost of a UAE Residency Visa
The cost of obtaining a UAE residency visa varies based on the visa type, duration, and processing method. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Type of UAE Residence Visa | Estimated Cost |
| Employment Visa | The employer covers most costs, but you pay processing fees (AED 70-100) and the Emirates ID fee (AED 410). |
| Investors Visa – Golden Visa (10 years) | AED 5,000 for application processing, plus medical test and typing centre charges. |
| Investor Visa – Golden Visa (5 years) | AED 3,000 for application processing, plus medical test and typing centre fees. |
| Property Investor Visa | Application processing, medical test, and typing centre fees (vary by property value). |
| Retirement Visa | AED 3,000 for application processing, plus medical and typing centre fees. |
| Family Visa | AED 310 application fee, plus a refundable deposit, medical test, and typing centre charges. |
| Green Visa | AED 5,000 application fee, medical tests, typing centre charges, and insurance costs. |
Note: The actual cost can depend significantly on visa type, processing fees, and individual circumstances. The final fees may differ based on the emirate and whether the application is submitted online or in person.
How to Track Your UAE Permanent Residency Application Status Online?
Below are the four steps which will help you to check the online status of your Dubai permanent residency:
- Visit the official website.
- Select the ‘Track Your Application Status’ option.
- Enter your ‘Request Number’ and click ‘Submit.’s
- View your application status on the redirected page.
Secure Your UAE Permanent Residency with Shuraa
Obtaining permanent residency in the UAE offers a range of advantages, including long-term stability, access to world-class amenities, and the opportunity to build a future in a thriving economy. With options like the Golden Visa and Green Visa, the process is designed to accommodate investors, skilled professionals, and entrepreneurs. Following the outlined steps, you can secure your residency and enjoy the numerous benefits of living in the UAE.
For personalised assistance with your permanent residency application, Shuraa Business Setup is here to help. Contact us at +97144081900, send a WhatsApp message to +971507775554, or email [email protected] for prompt professional support.
FAQs
Q1. What are the perks of a permanent residency visa in the UAE?
The perks of a permanent residency visa in the UAE are as follows:
- Long-Term Stay: Extended residency without frequent renewals.
- No Local Sponsor: No need for a local sponsor.
- Flexible Travel: Enter and exit the UAE freely.
- Access to Services: Utilize local healthcare and banking.
- Family Sponsorship: Sponsor family members for residency.
Q2. Am I required to stay in the UAE continuously to maintain the visa?
No, you don’t need to stay continuously. The visa allows flexible travel without maintaining continuous residence.
Q3. How to Get Permanent Citizenship in Dubai?
Currently, the UAE does not offer permanent citizenship. However, you can apply for long-term residency visas, such as the Golden Visa or Green Visa, which allow extended stays and various benefits.
Q4. How can I obtain permanent residency in the UAE through investment?
To get UAE permanent residency by investment, you must typically meet the criteria for a Golden Visa or a similar long-term residency program. This involves significant investments in real estate, public investments, or a business. Specific requirements include:
- Public Investments: Invest at least AED 2 million in accredited investment funds.
- Real Estate: Invest at least AED 2 million in UAE property.
- Business: Invest in or start a company with a substantial capital requirement.
Ensure you fulfil all the eligibility criteria and provide the necessary application documentation.
