New rules for obtaining a "golden visa" in the UAE: what do foreigners need to know?

Changes in the UAE's migration policy

In April 2022, the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) made new amendments to the federal decree regarding the conditions for the entry and residence of foreign nationals. These changes significantly simplify the country's migration policy and open up a wide range of opportunities for potential residents. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the key points of these changes.

Introduction of the "golden visa"

One of the most significant innovations was the implementation of“golden visas”This residence permit allows you to live in the country for a duration often yearsand is available for various categories of citizens, including:

• investors;
• entrepreneurs;
• highly qualified workers;
• students who demonstrate outstanding abilities;
• other people who have excelled in their field.

Rules for Buying Real Estate

As for the rules for purchasing real estate, the minimum price for the properties being acquired is now2 million UAE dirhams(approx.544 thousand US dollarsPreviously, a minimum investment amount was required to obtain a ten-day visa.10 million dirhamsInvestors can purchase housing using loans from local banks; however, these loans must be approved by the relevant government authorities. The opportunity for investment also extends to properties under construction, offered by government-approved developers.

There is also the possibility to obtainthree-year visaif the value of the existing property is at least750 thousand dirhams($204,000). More detailed information about this option can be found in available sources.

Rules for Entrepreneurs

The rules for entrepreneurs have also been updated. Foreigners interested in opening or participating in startups registered in the UAE in the small and medium-sized enterprise sector must ensure an annual income of at least1 million dirhams($272,294) to apply for a ten-year visa. For approval to“golden visa”Confirmation of the business idea will be required from an official incubator, the Ministry of Economy, or the relevant local authorities.

Qualified specialists

The new rules also apply to highly qualified specialists. Representatives of various professions, such as:

• doctors;
• scientists;
• IT Professionals;
• educational workers;
• lawyers;
• specialists in the field of culture and social sciences.

Candidates must have a valid employment contract with an employer in the UAE and meet the first or second professional level established by the Ministry of Human Resources and the international classification of occupations ISCO. Applicants must hold at least a diploma.bachelor's degreeor its equivalent, and their salary should be at least30 thousand dirhams(8,168 dollars).

Scientists and researchers

Scientists and researchers who have achieved significant success in their field also have the opportunity to obtain residency by providing a recommendation letter from the UAE Research Council. Such changes have created more comfortable conditions for foreign citizens wishing to live and work in the UAE, opening new horizons for talented and ambitious individuals. As a result, the migration policy aimed at attracting and supporting foreign specialists and investors continues to evolve, contributing to the strengthening of the country's economic and cultural potential.

Requirements for visa applicants

Candidates wishing to obtain a visa must either hold a doctoral or master's degree in fields such as technical, biological, or natural sciences from accredited educational institutions, or demonstrate exceptional achievements in research activities.

The "Golden Visa" is intended exclusively for outstanding talents. The status of this visa category is determined based on personal achievements, without considering education, qualifications, or income level. The application process requires approval from both federal and local authorities. Professionals who have excelled in various fields can participate in this program:

• art
• culture
• sport
• digital technologies
• inventions
• other key professions

Conditions for schoolchildren and students

As for the established conditions for schoolchildren and students, they can apply for a "golden visa" for a period of up to ten years, provided that they demonstrate outstanding academic achievements in UAE high schools or successfully graduate from universities in the country or are among the top one hundred universities in the world.

Changes for relatives of visa holders

The changes also affected the conditions for the relatives of visa holders. The age limits for children who can be included in the application have been significantly expanded. Previously, boys could be added until they turned 18, but this threshold has now been raised to 25. This restriction does not apply to girls and children with disabilities.

Educational requirements for a visa

The educational level of foreign citizens wishing to obtain a visa to the UAE must be equivalent to a bachelor's degree. It is also important that their income over the past two years amounts to at least 360,000 UAE dirhams, which is approximately equivalent to 98,000 US dollars.

New visa for investors

For investors who are starting or joining a business, a new type of visa has now been introduced, called“green residence”This type of visa will be valid for five years and will replace the previously existing visa that allowed a two-year stay in the country. To obtain this status, investors must secure approval from local authorities and make the necessary investments in the business.

• If a foreigner has several business licenses, the total amount of investments will be considered cumulatively.

Visa for skilled professionals

The "green residence" is also available to highly qualified professionals working without employer or sponsor support. Candidates must have a valid employment contract and meet the first three categories of professional classification established by the Ministry of Human Resources.

• Candidates should have an education level of at least a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.
• The salary should exceed 15,000 UAE dirhams, which is about 4,084 dollars.

Information about real estate and immigration

The Telegram channel regularly posts up-to-date information about real estate markets, immigration processes, and investment opportunities in the UAE. The country is introducing many new categories of visas for various purposes, and there is no longer a need for a sponsor or host to apply. Additionally, the new visa permits can be extended for the same duration, and they are valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.

Visa for job search

The work search visa was introduced to attract young and talented specialists who wish to enter the job market in the UAE. Additionally, this visa does not require a sponsor; it is granted to candidates who fall into the top three categories according to the Ministry of Human Resources classification, as well as to recent graduates from high-ranking international universities.

• The minimum education requirement for such candidates is a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.

New business visa

In addition, a new type of visa for business trips has been introduced, which encourages investors and entrepreneurs to explore markets and investment opportunities in the UAE. This visa also does not require sponsorship.

Multiple-entry tourist visa

At the same time, a multiple-entry tourist visa valid for five years was introduced. In addition to the standard tourist visa, the new type of visa does not require sponsorship and allows holders to stay in the Emirates continuously for up to 90 days.

The creation of this type of visa was driven by the need to simplify travel and attract more tourists.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the new immigration policy rules of the UAE, approved in April 2022, open up entirely new opportunities for foreign investors, skilled professionals, students, and talented individuals. These changes are aimed at creating a more favorable environment for doing business and living in the UAE, reflecting the country's desire to attract the best of the best.

Golden Visa Program

Golden Visa ProgramThe program offering a ten-year residency allows for a significant reduction in the initial investment required to purchase real estate — down to 2 million AED — and opens up access to the real estate market even for those who cannot afford large expenses. This meets the modern needs and demands of investors who seek greater flexibility in their investments.

New rules for entrepreneurs

Moreover,new rules for entrepreneursThose who want to create or develop startups in the UAE also play an important role in shaping a dynamic business environment.

• The opportunity to obtain a "golden visa" with an income of 1 million AED opens doors for many.
• This contributes to the economic development of the country.

Special conditions for professionals and students

It is worth noting thatspecial conditions for highly qualified professionals and students— all of this underscores the fact that the UAE is a key player on the global stage, striving to attract talent from around the world.

• The changes affect not only professionals and investors but also their families.
• Various benefits are offered to ease the process of relocation and adaptation.

Final thoughts

These innovations will undoubtedly create an attractive environment for foreign citizens wishing to become part of the rapidly developing society of the UAE. As a result, each of these initiatives not only simplifies the migration process but also shapes a new, more inclusive and diverse country, ready to face future challenges. Witnessing these changes, I enthusiastically look forward to how they can transform the lives of many people and strengthen the UAE's position on the international stage.