UAE Golden Visa 2026: Requirements, Cost & Steps
Property investors, entrepreneurs, executives, doctors, creatives and outstanding students
Short answer
The UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residence for property investors (from AED 2 million), investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents and outstanding students, with family sponsorship included.
The UAE Golden Visa is a 10-year, renewable residence permit that lets you live, work and study in the country without a local employer as sponsor. It is issued by the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) and, in Dubai, through GDRFA Dubai. Several routes lead to the same visa, so the real question is which one fits your profile and your timeline.
Who qualifies for the UAE Golden Visa?
- Property investors who own real estate worth at least AED 2 million.
- Investors who place capital in a deposit, fund or business in the UAE.
- Entrepreneurs who own or start a qualifying project.
- Specialised talents: doctors, scientists, creatives and senior executives.
- Outstanding students and graduates of recognised institutions.
- Humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes, by nomination or recognition.
How much property do you need for the Golden Visa?
The real-estate route needs property, in one unit or several, with a combined value of at least AED 2 million. Off-plan and mortgaged property are accepted in practice, and a mortgage requires a no-objection certificate from the bank. Rules on mortgaged and off-plan property have been relaxed in 2026, so we confirm your exact case with the authority before you pay any deposit to a developer.
Golden Visa or Green Visa: what is the difference?
| Golden Visa | Green Visa | |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | 10 years, renewable | 5 years, renewable |
| Typical applicant | Investors, entrepreneurs, top talents | Skilled employees, freelancers, partners |
| Entry point | Investment, talent or achievement | Skills, self-employment or business |
Can my family be included?
Yes. Spouse, children and parents can be sponsored under the main holder's visa. Unlike older residence types, you do not need to spend a minimum number of days in the UAE each year to keep the Golden Visa valid, which suits families who split their time between countries.
How long does it take and what does it cost?
Processing depends on the category, the emirate and how complete your file is, so we never promise a fixed number of days. Government fees, the medical test, Emirates ID and typing-centre charges apply and change from time to time. You receive a written breakdown of every cost before anything is submitted.
How does DXB.IST help with the Golden Visa?
We start with a free consultation and an eligibility check, then prepare your document checklist, arrange translations and book appointments with ICP or GDRFA Dubai through government-approved typing centres. If you are buying property, our property team shortlists qualifying units and works with licensed lawyers on the sale. We coordinate everything from your airport arrival to the day you collect your Emirates ID, and we stay for renewals, family additions and relocation. We are not a government body and cannot guarantee approval.
Who qualifies
- Own property worth at least AED 2 million in one or several units.
- Or qualify as an investor, entrepreneur or specialised talent.
- Or be an outstanding student or graduate with proof of excellence.
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months.
- Clean criminal record and a passing medical test.
- Mortgaged property needs a bank NOC.
Documents you'll need
- Passport copy and recent photo
- Current visa or entry stamp, if inside the UAE
- Title deed or off-plan contract and developer payment proof
- Bank NOC if the property is mortgaged
- Professional licence, company papers or investment proof, depending on category
- Health insurance
- Marriage and birth certificates for family members, attested and translated
- Police clearance, where requested
How it works, step by step
- 1
Eligibility check
We review your profile and choose the category that fits best.
- 2
Qualifying asset or nomination
Property purchase, investment placement or proof of talent is completed and documented.
- 3
File and appointments
We prepare the file and book the authority appointments.
- 4
Medical test and approval
Entry permit status change, medical test and approval from ICP or GDRFA Dubai.
- 5
Emirates ID and visa
Biometrics, Emirates ID and visa stamping, then family sponsorship.
City by city
Frequently asked questions
It is valid for 10 years and can be renewed if you still meet the criteria.
