If you are considering applying for the UAE’s Golden Visa as an investor, it’s important to know that there are alternative options to real estate investments.
The UAE provides investors with a range of categories to choose from when applying for the Golden Visa, such as ‘non-real estate investors’ or ‘public investments’. Understanding these options is crucial, so here is everything you need to know.
While investing in property remains a popular choice among investors, it’s worth noting that there are other viable options available that may better suit individual preferences. Allow us to guide you through all the essential information.
Three ways to get a Golden Visa through investments apart from real estate
As an investor, you have the opportunity to obtain a Golden Visa for a duration of 10 years without the need for a sponsor. This visa is available for the following categories:
- Bank deposit:
To qualify for this category, you must present a letter from a UAE-accredited investment fund confirming that you have a deposit of Dh2 million. - Company investor:
Another option is to invest in a company. In this case, you will need to submit a valid commercial or industrial license, along with a memorandum of association (MOA) stating that your capital is not less than Dh2 million. - Proof of tax payment:
To be eligible for a Golden Visa under this category, you must provide a letter from the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) stating that you pay the government a minimum of Dh250,000 annually.
According to the Abu Dhabi Resident Office (ADRO), you must demonstrate proof of tax payment for at least Dh250,000 per year for the two years preceding your application. ADRO further clarifies that if you own 25 percent of shares in a company that pays annual taxes amounting to Dh1 million, you must provide evidence of paying Dh250,000 per year to qualify for the visa.
To apply for a Golden Visa in any of these categories, you must fully own the invested capital; it cannot be a loan. Additionally, you must provide proof of medical insurance for yourself and your family members.
By meeting these requirements, you can secure a Golden Visa, granting you the privilege of residing in the UAE for a decade without the need for a sponsor.
Where does one apply for the Golden Visa?
Here are four ways to apply for visas in the UAE:
1. Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP)
Visas issued in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, or Fujairah are managed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). To apply for a visit visa, you can conveniently use the ICP smart services platform at smartservices.icp.gov.ae or download the ‘UAEICP’ smartphone application, available for both Apple and Android devices.
2. General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai
In Dubai, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) manages the visit visa application process. You can apply through their official website at gdrfad.gov.ae.
3. Amer Center
Amer centers handle immigration applications on behalf of Dubai’s GDRFA. If you have a visa issued in Dubai and wish to sponsor your family for visit visas or apply for a long-term multiple entry permit, you can visit an Amer center near you with the required documents. To find the list of Amer Centres located in Dubai, please visit this website: https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en/customer-happiness-centers#”
4. Typing centres
Immigration authorities in the UAE have authorized several typing centers to process visa applications for individuals and establishments. To begin the process, simply visit a typing center with the necessary documents, make the payment for the visa you are applying for, and the typing center will handle the entire application process. However, please note that using a typing center will incur additional service charges.
To access the complete list of authorized typing offices in the UAE, please visit the following website: https://icp.gov.ae/en/typing-offices/
If you meet the criteria for the Golden Visa through investment, you can proceed to fill out the application form. Just ensure that you have all the required documents and proof of investment ready.
For those applying from outside the UAE, once the initial application is approved, you will need to apply for a six-month multiple-entry visa in order to undergo the medical fitness test and apply for an Emirates ID. UAE residents, on the other hand, will be granted a one-month temporary visa to finalize the procedures for the Golden Visa, as per the guidelines set by the ICP.
Also Read: UAE: Got a Golden Visa? The following are eight benefits you can enjoy