Guide to UAE Citizenship by Investment and Golden Visa Program

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) introduced significant changes to its citizenship law in February 2021, offering citizenship to qualifying investors, individuals with special talents, and their families. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the UAE Golden Visa program and the process of obtaining UAE citizenship through investment or talent.

Overview

The UAE Golden Visa, also known as the Dubai Golden Visa, is a long-term residency visa designed to attract investors and talented individuals to live, work, and study in the country. This article explores the eligibility criteria, requirements, benefits, and application process for the Golden Visa program and insights into UAE citizenship by investment.

Who Qualifies for the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa program caters to a diverse range of individuals seeking residency in the UAE, encompassing the following categories:

Investors: Individuals seeking to invest in the UAE are eligible for the Golden Visa. The minimum investment required is AED 10 million, which can be made through various methods such as depositing funds in a local investment fund, forming a business with a minimum capital of AED 10 million, or making a partnership with an existing or new company with a share value of at least AED 10 million.
Entrepreneurs: Those with a successful track record in business ventures are welcomed under the Golden Visa program. Entrepreneurs need to demonstrate a minimum investment of AED 500,000 in their registered startup, an approved startup idea, or as the founder of a startup sold within or outside the UAE.
Exceptional Talents: Individuals with exceptional skills and achievements in various fields, including culture & art, invention & innovation, sports, and digital technology, among others, are eligible for the Golden Visa. These individuals must have a proven track record in their expertise, relevant academic qualifications, and endorsements from recognised international organizations.
Scientists & Professionals: Scientists, chief executives, engineers, health practitioners, educators, IT specialists, and legal, social, and cultural professionals are eligible for the Golden Visa. Eligibility is based on specific criteria, including academic qualifications, professional experience, and specialisation in priority areas for the UAE.
Outstanding Students & Graduates: Exceptional students who have excelled in secondary or university education are eligible for the Golden Visa. This includes top-performing secondary school students, graduates from UAE universities, and graduates from the top 100 universities worldwide with specified GPA requirements.
Humanitarian Pioneers: Individuals recognised for their contributions to humanitarian causes, including renowned members of international organisations, recipients of humanitarian awards, and volunteers or sponsors of humanitarian efforts, are eligible for the Golden Visa.
Frontline Heroes: Frontline workers who have shown extraordinary efforts during crises, such as pandemics, are also eligible for the Golden Visa.

The eligibility requirements for each category may vary, and applicants must undergo background checks and fulfil general conditions such as holding a valid passport and maintaining a clean criminal record.

The Golden Visa program aims to attract exceptional individuals who can contribute to the growth and development of the UAE, promoting diversity and innovation across various sectors. Additionally, the program offers both 10-year and 5-year residency visas, providing flexibility to meet the needs of different applicants.

Benefits of UAE Citizenship by Investment

There are numerous advantages to acquiring United Arab Emirates (UAE) citizenship through investment. Below are some of the key benefits:

Residency Rights: UAE citizenship grants you and your family the right to reside, work, and study in the Emirates, providing more excellent stability and security.
Family Reunification: As a citizen, you can include your spouse and children in the citizenship program, facilitating family reunification.
Asset Registration: UAE citizens can register their assets without encountering the restrictions faced by foreigners and expatriates, allowing for greater flexibility in managing financial holdings and investments.
Ease of Banking and Business Establishment: Unlike foreigners who often encounter bureaucratic hurdles, UAE citizens can easily open bank accounts and establish companies, streamlining financial transactions and business endeavours.
Visa-Free Travel: Holding a UAE passport affords you visa-free travel to numerous countries worldwide, including European Schengen states and other nations across continents, facilitating seamless international travel and business opportunities.

By obtaining UAE citizenship through investment, individuals gain access to a range of privileges and opportunities that contribute to personal and professional growth and enhanced global mobility.

Application Process for Golden Visa UAE

The application process for the UAE Golden Visa is straightforward. It involves:

Obtain Entry Visa to the UAE: If you require a visa to enter the UAE, you must obtain an entry visa before submitting your official Golden Visa application. The relevant authority will examine this visa, and if approved, you will be issued a multiple-entry visa valid for six months.
Complete Investment or Meet Talent Requirements: Before submitting your Golden Visa application, you must meet the investment criteria or talent requirements, depending on your chosen category. For investors, this may involve making the required investment in the UAE, while talented individuals must provide evidence of their achievements and endorsements.
Start Your Application: Once you have completed the necessary investment or met the talent requirements, you can begin the Golden Visa application process. Applications can be submitted in person at designated Abu Dhabi or Dubai centres or online through the official portal.
Document Submission and Verification: Submit all required documents along with your application. These documents may include proof of investment, academic qualifications, endorsements, and other supporting evidence. Your application will be verified, and any missing documents must be provided within a specified timeframe.
Application Review and Approval: The relevant authorities will review Your Golden Visa application. If all requirements are met and the application is approved, you will receive confirmation via email and SMS. However, if any discrepancies or missing documents are identified, you will be notified and allowed to rectify them within the stipulated timeframe.
Issuance of Golden Visa: You will receive your Golden Visa via email upon approval. This visa will grant you residency in the UAE for the specified duration, either ten years or five years, depending on your eligibility category. Your visa may also include provisions for extending residency to eligible family members and colleagues.
Visa Renewal and Extensions: Holders of the Golden Visa are permitted to stay outside the UAE for extended periods without risking the validity of their residency. However, if required, you can renew or extend your visa as per the guidelines provided by the relevant authorities.

The application process for the UAE Golden Visa is designed to be straightforward and streamlined, allowing eligible individuals to obtain residency in the UAE and avail themselves of the various opportunities and benefits offered by the program.

Conclusion

The UAE Golden Visa and Citizenship by Investment program offer attractive opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs, and talented individuals seeking residency there. With straightforward application processes, numerous benefits, and favourable tax conditions, the UAE remains a desirable destination for those looking to enhance their personal and professional prospects.

Consulting with reputable agencies like MICS Global can be beneficial for personalised assistance and guidance throughout the application process.

Feel free to contact MICS Global and arrange an initial private consultation. During this session, we’ll explore your needs in-depth and offer personalised insights to guide your journey. We look forward to connecting with you.

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