UAE Golden Visa 2026: Complete Eligibility, Salary Rules & Application Guide

UAE 10-Year Golden Visa: The Ultimate Expat Residency Guide

The UAE 10-Year Golden Visa is the premier long-term self-sponsored residency program in the Middle East. Administered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai), the Golden Visa allows investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and scientists to live, work, and study in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the Northern Emirates without requiring a local national sponsor or employer guarantee.

1. Skilled Professionals Category (Salary: AED 30,000+)

The most popular route for corporate expats and tech professionals:

• Minimum Basic Salary: Fixed monthly basic salary of at least AED 30,000 (excluding allowances and discretionary bonuses).
• Educational Qualification: Attested Bachelor's degree or higher certified by the UAE Ministry of Education.
• MOHRE Occupational Classification: Employed in an occupational role classified under Skill Level 1 (Managers/Executives) or Skill Level 2 (Professionals).
• Valid Employment Contract: Active MOHRE mainland contract or Free Zone employment agreement.

2. Real Estate Investor Category (AED 2 Million+)

Real estate investors can secure a 10-year residency by purchasing property in Dubai or the UAE:

• Property Value Threshold: One or more freehold properties with a total purchase value of AED 2,000,000 or more recorded on the Title Deed.
• Mortgaged Properties Allowed: Properties purchased with a bank mortgage from approved UAE financial institutions qualify, provided the bank provides an NOC confirming minimum paid equity.
• Off-Plan Properties: Off-plan properties qualify if purchased from approved master developers (Emaar, Nakheel, Sobha, DAMAC) with initial down payment verification.

Step-by-Step Online Application Process (ICP / GDRFA)

1. Nomination & Pre-Approval: Visit the ICP Smart Services portal (smartservices.icp.gov.ae) or GDRFA Dubai portal to submit your Golden Visa nomination.
2. Upload Required Documentation: Salary certificates, 6 months bank statements, attested educational degrees, and Title Deeds.
3. Pay Government Issuance Fees: Standard application and issuance fees range between AED 2,800 and AED 3,800.
4. Medical Fitness & Emirates ID: Complete VIP medical fitness screening and receive your 10-Year Emirates ID card.