The UAE is a popular destination for people worldwide who want to live, work, or invest in a vibrant and growing economy. To make it easier for talented professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs to settle here, the UAE government offers long-term residency visas like the Golden Visa and Silver Visa. While the Golden Visa often steals the spotlight, the Silver Visa UAE is also a fantastic option for those looking for a 5-year renewable residency.
The Silver Visa is perfect for people who want to build a future in the UAE, whether by investing in businesses, starting their own companies, or bringing special skills to the table. With this visa, you can live, work, and study in the UAE without needing a local sponsor, making it an excellent choice for many.
What is the Silver Visa UAE?
A Silver Visa in the UAE is a 5-year renewable residency visa introduced by the UAE government to attract talented individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals from around the world. It’s designed to provide more stability and security for those who wish to make the UAE their home, whether by investing in businesses, launching startups, or contributing their expertise in specialised fields.
The Silver Visa is considered the more accessible version of the Golden Visa, which makes it a fantastic option for people who may not meet the higher requirements of the Golden Visa but still want to enjoy the benefits of long-term residency in the UAE.
Types of Silver Visas in the UAE
The UAE Silver Visa offers several categories designed to attract various groups of people, including investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, and skilled professionals. Here are the main types:
1. Silver Visa for Businesses and Investors
This category focuses on those who make financial investments within the UAE, whether in real estate or business ventures. It’s a popular choice for those who own property or businesses worth at least AED 1 million.
2. Silver Visa for Professionals
This is for individuals with specialised skills and qualifications in fields such as:
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Information Technology
- Financial Services
- Law and Education
Applicants need to provide relevant qualifications and proof of expertise in their field.
3. Silver Visa for Exceptional Talents
The UAE grants the Silver Visa to individuals with exceptional skills and notable achievements in fields such as:
- Science and Technology
- Arts and Culture
- Education and Research
- Sports and Innovation
Applicants do not necessarily need to have a job offer but must provide proof of their exceptional talent or accomplishments.
4. Silver Visa for Students
High-achieving students with exceptional academic records are eligible. This includes high school students with high grades and university students with high GPAs.
5. Silver Visa for Retirees
The Silver Visa is available to older expatriates who wish to retire in the UAE. Applicants must meet age and financial requirements, such as investments in pension funds or property.
Eligibility for a Silver Visa in the UAE
To qualify for a Silver Visa in the UAE, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria:
Investors in Real Estate:
- Applicants must invest in a property valued at a minimum of AED 1 million and retain the investment for at least three years.
Entrepreneurs:
- Applicants must own or be a partner in an existing or new business in the UAE, with the company generating an annual revenue of at least AED 1 million.
Outstanding Students:
- High school students must achieve a minimum grade of 95% from UAE schools.
- University students, whether studying inside or outside the UAE, must graduate with a GPA of 3.75 or above.
Highly Skilled Workers:
- Professionals working in fields such as science, engineering, health, education, information technology, and culture must earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000.
Freelancers & Self-employed Individuals:
- Applicants must provide proof of employment within the UAE in specialised fields and demonstrate a minimum annual income of AED 360,000 from freelancing activities.
Retirement:
Applicants must be at least 55 years old and fulfil one of the following conditions:
- Property Investment: Own property worth at least AED 1 million.
- Savings: Maintain a bank deposit of at least AED 1 million.
- Income: Provide proof of an annual income of at least AED 180,000 (AED 15,000 per month).
Silver Visa UAE Requirements
To apply for a Silver Visa UAE, you will need to provide specific documents, including:
- Passport copy (valid for at least six months)
- Recent photographs
- Proof of investment, employment, academic achievement, or retirement criteria (as applicable)
- Health insurance (if applicable)
- Good conduct certificate (if required for certain categories)
These documents should be clear, valid, and attested if necessary. Additional documents may be required depending on the specific category and the authority processing your application.
How can you apply for a Silver Visa in the UAE?
To apply for a Silver Visa in the UAE, follow this simple step-by-step process:
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Eligibility
Check if you meet the eligibility criteria based on your category (Investor, Entrepreneur, Exceptional Talent, or Specialised Professional). Gather all the necessary documents related to your category.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Collect all required documents, including passport copies, photographs, proof of investment, employment contracts, certificates, and recommendation letters if applicable. Ensure all documents are valid, clear, and attested if required.
Step 3: Submit Your Silver Visa Application
Online Submission:
- Use the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) websites.
- Provide accurate personal and professional details.
- Attach all required documents in the specified formats.
- Settle the visa processing fees using available payment methods.
Offline Submission:
- Go to authorised typing centres or service centres in the UAE.
- Provide physical copies of all necessary documents.
- Fill out the application form with assistance if needed.
- Pay the required fees at the centre.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
The relevant authorities will review your application and documents. Approval times may vary depending on your category and the completeness of your application.
Step 5: Receive Your Entry Permit (If Applying from Outside UAE)
If you are applying from outside the UAE, you will receive an entry permit to enter the country and complete the visa process. Make sure to travel to the UAE within the validity period of the entry permit.
Step 6: Complete Medical Test and Emirates ID Application
Undergo a medical fitness test at an approved medical centre. Apply for your Emirates ID by submitting your biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
Step 7: Obtain Your Silver Visa
Once all steps are successfully completed, you will receive your Silver Visa for Dubai, UAE. The authorities will stamp your residency visa on your passport and issue your Emirates ID.
What is the cost of a Silver Visa in the UAE?
The cost of obtaining a Silver Visa in the UAE varies based on the applicant’s category and specific requirements. For investors and businesses, this typically means a minimum investment of AED 1 million. This can be in real estate, business ventures, or other approved investments.
Besides, there are other additional costs, including visa processing fees, medical tests, and Emirates ID issuance.
Difference Between Silver Visa, Golden Visa, and Green Visa
1. Silver Visa (5 Years)
The Silver Visa is part of the UAE’s long-term residency programme designed to attract investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and exceptional students.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Real Estate Investors: A minimum investment of AED 1 million is required.
- Entrepreneurs: Applicants must generate a business revenue of at least AED 1 million annually.
- Skilled Workers: A minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000 is required.
- Outstanding Students: GPA of 3.75 or above (university) or 95% (high school).
Outstanding Students: A GPA of 3.75 or above (university) or 95% (high school) is necessary. - Freelancers: Applicants must earn a minimum annual income of AED 360,000.
- Retirees: Individuals aged 55 and above must meet specific investment or income requirements.
Validity: 5 years (renewable).
Benefits:
- Holders are not required to have a sponsor or employer.
- They can sponsor their family members to reside in the UAE.
- They enjoy the freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the UAE.
2. Golden Visa (10 Years)
The Golden Visa offers long-term residency for 10 years, aimed at attracting high-profile investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents, researchers, and outstanding students.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Investors: Real estate or business investments worth at least AED 2 million.
- Entrepreneurs: Business setup with a minimum capital of AED 500,000.
- Specialised Talents: Professionals in science, technology, healthcare, education, arts, and culture.
- Outstanding Students & Graduates: High academic performance in UAE-based universities or high schools.
Validity: 10 years (renewable).
Benefits:
- No sponsor or employer required.
- Holders of the Golden Visa can sponsor their family members, including spouses and children, for the duration of the visa.
- Full business ownership for investors.
- Multiple-entry visa for six months during the application process.
The Silver Visa primarily targets investors, professionals, freelancers, and retirees with a 5-year validity, while the Golden Visa caters to high-profile investors, entrepreneurs, talents, and top students with a 10-year validity and added benefits like full business ownership and multiple entry privileges.
3. Green Visa (5 Years)
The Green Visa is designed to attract skilled workers, freelancers, and investors, providing them with greater flexibility and stability compared to standard residence visas.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Skilled Employees: Valid employment contract, bachelor’s degree or higher, and a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000.
- Freelancers & Self-employed Individuals: Proof of annual income of at least AED 360,000.
- Investors or Partners: Investment proof in a business or commercial activity.
Validity: 5 years (renewable).
Benefits:
- The Green Visa does not require a sponsor or employer, offering greater independence.
- Holders of the Green Visa can sponsor their family members, including their spouse, children, and parents.
- Grace period of up to 6 months upon visa cancellation or expiry.
The Silver Visa and the Green Visa serve different purposes and target distinct demographics. While the Silver Visa is primarily for foreign investors wishing to reside in the UAE by investing in real estate or business sectors, the Green Visa is more suitable for skilled employees, freelancers, and entrepreneurs seeking a more flexible and independent residency option.
Benefits of Obtaining a Silver Visa in the UAE
Here are some of the most compelling reasons to consider applying for a Silver Visa:
1. Long-Term Residency (5 Years)
The UAE Silver Visa offers a renewable 5-year residency, providing stability and peace of mind to investors, professionals, retirees, and exceptional talents.
2. Ease of Doing Business
Enjoy the flexibility to establish and manage businesses without complex ownership requirements. Investors and entrepreneurs can benefit from 100% business ownership in certain business activities.
3. Pathway to Golden Visa
Meeting higher investment or qualification criteria over time can lead to eligibility for a Golden Visa.
4. Tax-Free Environment
Enjoy the benefits of living in one of the world’s most attractive tax-free environments, especially appealing for investors and entrepreneurs.
5. Access to Premium Services
Silver Visa holders can enjoy exclusive perks like priority processing for various government services and facilities.
6. Security and Stability
The UAE is known for its political and economic stability, making it a safe and reliable place for investors, professionals, and families to reside.
Why Choose Shuraa for Silver Visa Assistance?
Obtaining a Silver Visa in the UAE is an exceptional opportunity for investors, professionals, entrepreneurs, retirees, and talented individuals to enjoy a secure and prosperous life in one of the most dynamic countries in the world.
At Shuraa Business Setup, we’re here to make the visa application process seamless and hassle-free. Our team of experts is ready to help you with business setup, visa applications, and all the paperwork to ensure your Silver Visa application goes smoothly.
Get ready to enjoy the benefits of the UAE Silver Visa! Contact Shuraa Business Setup today for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Dubai Silver Visa requirements?
To qualify for the Dubai Silver Visa, you need to meet criteria related to investment, skill, or talent. Common requirements include proof of investment, educational qualifications, or exceptional skills in fields like science, arts, or business.
2. What are the Silver Visa UAE requirements for Indian citizens?
Indian citizens can apply for the Silver Visa if they meet the eligibility criteria, such as investment in the UAE, demonstrating specialised skills, or qualifying as a professional. The requirements are consistent for all nationalities.
3. What is the salary requirement for the UAE Silver Visa?
For professionals applying under the skilled worker category, the minimum monthly salary requirement is AED 15,000. However, requirements may vary based on the category you are applying under.
4. How long is the Silver Visa valid?
The Silver Visa is valid for 5 years and is renewable upon meeting the required conditions at the time of renewal.
*Note: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations.
