ResidencyUAE (Golden Visa)
Long-term residence in a tax-free global crossroads
The UAE Golden Visa has reshaped how investors and entrepreneurs think about the Gulf, turning what was once short-term, employer-tied residence into a genuine long-term base. Designed to attract capital, talent and families, it grants renewable long-term residency to those who meet qualifying investment or professional criteria, most commonly through real estate.
For many investors the appeal is as much about lifestyle and economics as mobility. The UAE levies no personal income tax, offers world-class infrastructure, safety and connectivity, and sits within a few hours' flight of Europe, Africa and much of Asia, making it a natural hub for international business and family life.
CBIProgram helps clients identify qualifying assets, structure the investment correctly, and navigate the residency application and family sponsorship so the process is smooth from first enquiry to visa issuance.
- Residence requirement: 1 visit every 6 months
Program law
The Golden Visa operates under the United Arab Emirates' federal long-term residence framework administered by the relevant immigration and residency authorities; specific thresholds and conditions are set by applicable UAE regulations and should be confirmed at the time of application.
Key benefits
No personal income tax
The UAE imposes no personal income tax, allowing residents to retain their earnings and manage wealth in a highly efficient environment.
Long-term, renewable status
The Golden Visa provides long-term residency that renews on an ongoing basis, replacing the short, employer-dependent permits of the past.
Family included
Qualifying investors can sponsor their spouse and children, and in many cases parents and domestic staff, keeping the whole household together.
Global connectivity
World-class airports and a central position between East and West make the UAE one of the most connected places in the world to live and do business.
Fees & costs
Investment options
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Qualifying real estate — Common route to the long-term Golden Visa through property ownership | AED 2,000,000 (approx. USD 545,000) |
| Business or capital investment — Alternative qualifying routes for investors and entrepreneurs | Varies |
Government fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa and processing fees — Government application, medical, Emirates ID and related charges are quoted case by case | Varies |
Process & timeline
We confirm which qualifying route fits your profile and map out the investment and family requirements.
You complete the qualifying real estate purchase or other approved investment and obtain the supporting documentation.
The residency application is filed and you complete the required medical examination and biometrics.
The long-term visa and Emirates ID are issued, after which family members can be sponsored.
The visa renews on a long-term basis provided the qualifying conditions continue to be met.
Eligibility
- Main applicant must be a legal adult
- A qualifying investment, most commonly real estate of around AED 2 million, or another approved route
- Clean criminal background and valid medical clearance
- Valid passport and supporting proof of ownership or investment
- Ability to maintain the qualifying investment for the required period
- Sufficient means to support any sponsored family members
Required documents
All applicants
- Valid passport
- Passport-size photographs
- Proof of the qualifying investment
- Medical fitness certificate
- Emirates ID application
Main applicant
- Title deed or proof of property ownership for the real estate route
- Evidence of funds and source of the investment
Married couples
- Marriage certificate for a sponsored spouse
- Birth certificates for sponsored children
- Supporting sponsorship documentation for dependants
Frequently asked questions
How much property do I need to buy to qualify?
The common real estate threshold is around AED 2 million, roughly USD 545,000, though exact requirements and alternative routes should be confirmed for your situation.
Do I pay income tax as a UAE resident?
The UAE imposes no personal income tax, which is one of the central attractions of residing there.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Golden Visa holders can typically sponsor their spouse and children, and often parents and domestic staff, subject to the applicable rules.
How long is the visa valid?
The Golden Visa is a long-term, renewable residency, a significant change from the shorter, employer-tied permits that previously dominated.
Do I have to live in the UAE full-time?
The long-term visa is designed to be flexible for globally mobile residents; specific presence expectations should be reviewed as part of your planning.
Can I qualify without buying property?
Yes. While real estate is the most common route, qualifying business and capital investments, as well as talent and entrepreneur categories, can also lead to the Golden Visa.
Information last verified: 2026-10-29 · Official programme data
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