
Migrate to UAE
UAE Introduces 10-Year Golden Visa for Professionals
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently introduced a 10-year Golden Visa for professionals, including engineers, physicians, and Ph.D. holders from UAE-accredited universities who have achieved a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.8 or above. This initiative aims to retain "talented people and great minds" in the country.
Background of the Golden Visa
Introduced in 2019 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the Golden Visa is a long-term residency program. Since its inception, more than 400 investors, businesspeople, and some of their family members have been granted this visa.
About the United Arab Emirates
The UAE is a federation of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Dubai, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. These emirates collectively form the Federal Supreme Council, with Abu Dhabi serving as the federal capital and the largest emirate, covering over three-quarters of the UAE's total land area. Dubai, a prominent port city and capital of the emirate of Dubai, is known for its skyscrapers and multinational presence. The UAE has an estimated population of around 9.9 million.
Reasons for Introducing the UAE Golden Visa
The Golden Visa was introduced to position the UAE as a prime destination for business investment and to encourage business development in the region. It recognizes long-term residents for their contributions to the country’s development by granting them a renewable 10-year visa.
Eligibility for the Golden Card

The Golden Card is available to five categories of non-residents:
- Entrepreneurs
- Chief Executives
- Investors
- Meritorious Students
- Scientists
Requirements for Foreign Investors
Foreign investors must fulfill at least one of the following conditions:
- Deposit up to 10 million dirhams in an investment fund in the UAE.
- Own a company with 10 million dirhams as capital investment or be a partner in a company with a share of up to 10 million dirhams.
Additional conditions include:
- Investment funds must be fully owned and not funded through a loan, with adequate proof provided.
- The investment must have been held for at least three years.
- The applicant must have an insurance document for themselves and their family members.
Requirements for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs must:
- Own a project valued at 500,000 dirhams or above in a certified field in the UAE.
- Be approved as a certified business incubator and founder of the project.
- Have health insurance coverage for themselves and their family members.
Eligibility Conditions for Specialists
Specialists must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be a professor from one of the top 500 international universities approved by the Ministry of Education.
- Hold an award or certificate of appreciation for their area of specialization.
- Have made significant contributions to their field of study.
- Possess 20 years of practical experience in their field of expertise.
- Be specialists in fields significant to the UAE.

Eligibility Conditions for Chief Executives

Chief executives must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- Have at least five years of experience.
- Earn a salary of 30,000 dirhams or more in the UAE and have a valid job contract.
- Have health insurance coverage, including for family members.
Eligibility Criteria for Others
Inventors must have a patent that is valuable to the UAE's economy and approved by the Ministry of Economy. The program also includes specialists in art and culture approved by the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development in the UAE.
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