For immigration to the UAE, foreign nationals must obtain a residence visa valid for a period of 1 to 10 years. Local legislation provides various grounds for legalisation, including those available for investors, such as:
- a 5-year Golden Visa for investments from AED 2 million (USD 544,500) in real estate or AED 500,000 (USD 136,000) in an innovative project;
- a 10-year Golden Visa for investments from AED 2 million (USD 544,500) in an investment fund;
- a 5-year Green Visa for investments from AED 1 million (USD 272,500) in a new or existing business;
- a 2-year residence visa for investments from AED 750,000 (USD 204,000) in property in Dubai.
Legalisation options are also available for professionals who have signed contracts with local employers, expats with incomes from AED 15,000 (USD 4,100) per month, remote employees with incomes from USD 3,500 per month and retirees with incomes from AED 15,000 (USD 4,100) per month.
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Benefits of UAE residency
- Safety. The United Arab Emirates is among the world's safest countries, ranking among the top 3 in the Numbeo Safety Index 2025. Strict laws ensure a low crime rate. The government has effective law enforcement agencies and a video surveillance system that promotes public order. This makes it an attractive place to live, especially for families with children who value safety and stability.
- Permanent relocation is possible. Residency allows staying in the country for an extended period. In many cases, residents can regularly renew their status,which is advantageous for expats wishing to work and do business in a promising Middle Eastern region.
- Tax optimisation. The country offers tax advantages that benefit entrepreneurs, investors, and highly skilled professionals. Individuals are exempt from taxes on income, interest, dividends, royalties, wealth, luxury goods, inheritance, gifts and capital gains. This significantly reduces the tax burden for foreign nationals who become tax residents.
- Opening a local bank account. Opening a bank account in the country is simple and requires a minimal set of documents. In most cases, accounts can be opened for individuals and companies. Local banks offer high-quality services, including international transfers and lending, making financial operations in the country convenient and secure.
- Driver's licenses recognised in 50 countries. Car owners can obtain driver's licenses in the country that are recognised in more than 50 countries worldwide, including France, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, China and the United States.
- Quality medical services. Emirati healthcare is known for its high quality. The country boasts modern medical facilities equipped with the latest technology and employs qualified specialists who are trained to international standards. It offers a range of private and public clinics that provide comprehensive medical services – from consultations to complex surgical interventions. Dental care and cosmetic services are also available. A significant advantage is the availability of health insurance programs for all residents of the country.
- Business and work opportunities. As an international business center, the country attracts many foreign companies and entrepreneurs. Thanks to free economic zones, no income tax for individuals, low corporate tax (from 0 to 9%) and government support, local businesses become more profitable and easier to manage. The country also offers favorable conditions for startups, with opportunities to secure investments and subsidies. Foreign workers can consider many vacancies in various industries, including finance, information technology, trade and tourism.
- The country has public and private schools and universities that provide quality education under British, American, international (IB) and other systems. Many Emirati educational institutions offer internationally recognised diplomas, enabling students to pursue further education in other countries or secure employment in international companies. Additionally, the Emirates attracts foreign nationals due to the availability of diverse educational programs and a cultural environment suitable for students from around the world.
Types of investor visas in the UAE
UAE Golden Visa
This long-term residence permit enables foreign nationals to reside, work, or study in the country. Real estate purchase is one of the grounds for its issuance. The main advantages of this option include the following:
- long validity period – 5 or 10 years;
- possibility of extension;
- no need for a sponsor;
- ability to stay outside the country for more than 6 months while maintaining status;
- ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children of any age (in case of the sponsor's death, they can remain in the country until the expiration of their residence permit);
- ability to sponsor an unlimited number of domestic workers.
Investors must purchase one or more properties worth at least AED 2 million (USD 544,500). The transaction can be concluded using credit from certain local banks approved by the competent authority. This option allows for legalisation for a period of 5 years.
Entrepreneurs ready to invest in an economic project based on technical innovations and willing to take on risk can also apply for a 5-year UAE residence permit by investment. They must provide an approval letter from:
- a local auditor confirming that the project value is at least AED 500,000 (USD 136,000);
- the emirate authorities stating that the project has a technical focus or is related to innovative technologies;
- an accredited business incubator.
Investments in a fund allow obtaining a 10-year investment visa in UAE under the following conditions:
- providing a letter from a fund accredited in the country stating that the investor has a deposit of 2 million AED (USD 544,500) or a valid commercial/industrial license and articles of association stating that the investor's capital is at least AED 2 million (USD 544,500);
- submitting a letter from the Federal Tax Authority stating that the investor pays at least AED 250,000 (USD 68,000) per year to the state.
UAE resident visa by real estate purchase
The Golden Residency is designed for buyers of freehold properties in any emirate. There is also a separate program for investors in residential properties, such as houses and apartments in Dubai. It allows legalisation for 2 years through the acquisition of a property worth AED 750,000 (USD 204,000). Along with the principal applicant, their spouse, unmarried daughters of any age and unmarried sons under 25 can apply for this residency category.
UAE Green Visa
A residence permit is issued to foreign nationals for a period of 5 years. Investments in a new or existing business in the country are among the grounds for applying. The minimum investment threshold is AED 1 million (USD 272,500). Residents can extend their status and include spouses, unmarried daughters of any age and sons under 25 in the application.
Following the permit cancellation, a six-month grace period is provided for an extension. Citizens and residents do not have to sponsor investors when obtaining an investor visa in the UAE.
Other ways of obtaining a UAE residence visa
"In addition to investments in real estate and business, there are many other ways to obtain a residence permit. Foreign nationals can legalise their stay by signing an employment contract with a local company, enrolling in an accredited educational institution, and confirming the availability of pension contributions, regular income from remote employment, family ties with residents, or outstanding talents," says Oleg Samoilov.
Through employment
Foreign nationals who have signed an employment contract with a local company are eligible to apply for a work residence permit. In this case, the employer handles the process. They apply to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization or a free economic zone, depending on the type of legal entity.
If approved, the company receives an entry permit for the employee. Then, the foreigner arrives in the country and gets an arrival stamp. After the information is transmitted to the Immigration Service, they undergo a medical examination and submit biometric data. If the applicant fulfills all conditions and confirms compliance with the requirements, they receive a residence visa for employees in the UAE within a few weeks.
Qualified specialists can also apply for a 5-year Green Visa. For this, they must meet the following criteria:
- having a valid employment contract with a local employer;
- the required level of professional qualification meeting the requirements of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization;
- a bachelor's degree or equivalent;
- salary – from AED 15,000 (USD 4,100) per month.
For freelancers
Freelancers and self-employed individuals can also apply for a 5-year Green residency. For this, they need to provide:
- freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization;
- confirmation of a bachelor's or specialist degree;
- confirmation of income from individual labour activity for the previous 2 years in the amount of at least AED 360,000 (USD 98,000) per year or financial solvency throughout the stay in the country.
Additionally, foreign nationals can obtain a one-year virtual work permit. A freelancer visa in UAE is designed for specialists working abroad in web design, information and media technologies, education, etc. Applicants are required to confirm their remote employment and monthly income, starting from USD 5,000 for Dubai and USD 3,500 for other emirates.
Studying at accredited universities
An international student can remain in the country to receive education with sponsorship support from either their parent, who is a resident or from an accredited university or college in which they study.
Important notes:
- Student residence permits are issued for 1 year, with an extension for a similar period, upon providing proof of continued education from the institution where the foreigner is enrolled.
- High achievers who have completed high school with a grade of at least 95% or university with a GPA of 3.75 can apply for a 5-year Golden residence permit without a sponsor, provided they submit a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education.
Residents can sponsor their sons only until they reach the age of 25. Male students older than this age can remain under their parents' sponsorship if they provide proof of attending a higher education institution for at least 1 year. Unmarried daughters can be sponsored regardless of their age.
To apply, one must provide a certificate issued by the educational institution indicating the duration of the study, an IELTS or TOEFL certificate confirming the level of English proficiency and proof of having sufficient funds to live in the country. A student permit grants the right to employment, with limitations on working hours.
Program for retirees
Foreign nationals can apply for a retiree visa in the UAE. Individuals who have worked in the Arab Emirates or abroad for at least 15 years or who were 55 years of age or older at the time of retirement are eligible to apply. They must also meet one of the following requirements:
- ownership of one or more properties worth at least AED 1 million (USD 272,500);
- savings of at least AED 1 million (USD 272,500);
- monthly income of at least AED 15,000 (USD 4,100) for living in Dubai or AED 20,000 (USD 5,500) for living in any other emirate.
The retirement residence permit is valid for a period of 5 years. Residents can renew their status if they meet the criteria for its initial receipt.
For family members
Foreign nationals can sponsor their families' residence in the country with a valid residence permit. Their minimum salary must be at least AED 4,000 (USD 1,100) per month or AED 3,000 (USD 820) per month with housing provided. For legalisation, adult family members need to undergo a medical examination.
Important notes:
- a mother can sponsor her children in exceptional cases approved by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security;
- a resident sponsor has 60 days to apply for a residence permit for dependents after they visit the country on an entry permit;
- a resident can sponsor their parents, and their permit will be issued on an annual basis regardless of the sponsor's residence permit validity period;
- the type of profession is no longer a condition for a foreign worker to determine the possibility of sponsoring their family members.
For talented specialists
Foreign nationals with outstanding talent in a specific field who have fulfilled the necessary conditions can obtain a 10-year Golden Visa. The right to legalisation is available to:
- doctors;
- scientists;
- cultural and art figures;
- inventors;
- executives;
- athletes.
PhD holders and specialists in the following fields of science and technology can also apply:
- epidemiology and viruses;
- artificial intelligence;
- big data;
- computer engineering;
- electronic engineering;
- software engineering;
- electrical engineering;
- genetics and biotechnology.
Types of UAE residence visas: key differences and benefits
| Visa type | Validity | Application conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Golden | 5 or 10 years |
Meeting one of the following requirements:
|
| Green | 5 years |
Meeting one of the following requirements:
|
| Dubai resident visa for real estate buyers | 2 years | Purchase property in Dubai from USD 204,000. |
| Work | Up to 2 years | An employment contract with a local employer. |
| Virtual Work Residence | 1 year | Proof of remote employment and monthly income starting at USD 5,000 for Dubai and USD 3,500 for other emirates. |
| Student | 1 year | Enrollment in an accredited university or college and sponsorship. |
| Retirement | 5 years |
Age 55 or older at the time of retirement or at least 15 years of experience and meeting one of the following requirements:
|
| Family | Up to 3 years | Sponsorship from resident family members with an income of at least USD 1,100 or USD 820 per month if housing is available. |
5 steps to resident visa in UAE through real estate purchase
| Passing the program eligibility check |
Before applying, make sure the applicant meets the investment program criteria, which include:
Preliminary screening includes reviewing personal and financial records to minimise the likelihood of rejection. |
| Preparing the documents and obtaining a short-term entry permit | The applicant must collect, translate and legalise the necessary documents. This task can be delegated to lawyers familiar with the local migration legislation. At this stage, a short-term visa is required, which will enable the foreigner to visit the state to inspect the property and complete the necessary procedures. It is valid for 6 months. |
| Real estate purchase | Personal presence is not mandatory for selecting and purchasing property in UAE. The applicant may execute a power of attorney for representatives undertaking this task. Specialists will inspect the object, check the necessary documents and register ownership. |
| Medical examination | The investor and adult family members applying for resident status must undergo examinations at a local, accredited medical institution. They will receive appropriate certificates after a fluorography and tests to detect the presence of dangerous infectious diseases. |
| Passing a security check and obtaining a UAE resident card | This stage, like the medical examination, requires the presence of the applicants. Foreign nationals must submit documents and biometric data to the General Directorate for Residence and Foreign Affairs. Once the application is approved, they will receive a residence permit. |
Possible reasons for UAE residence visa refusal
- Non-compliance with the requirements of the residence permit category. Refusal is possible if a foreigner, for example, has insufficient income to obtain a freelancer visa.
- Problems with documents. Errors in completing the application form, providing false information, or failing to submit necessary documents can result in the rejection of the application.
- Poor credit history or debts. If the applicant has debts, financial violations or unfulfilled obligations to banks, this can be grounds for refusal.
- Criminal history. A criminal record, especially for financial crimes, fraud, violence or other serious offenses, can lead to application rejection.
- Previous violation of visa regime. Deportation, overstaying, or being refused entry in the past can negatively impact obtaining a residence permit.
- Health problems. Detection of serious diseases such as tuberculosis or HIV during a medical examination can be a reason for refusal.
- Security considerations. If the applicant is associated with activities that threaten the national security of the state (such as terrorism or extremism), they will be denied residency.
Rights and obligations of UAE residents
A residence permit in the United Arab Emirates allows foreign nationals to reside legally, open bank accounts of any type, obtain a driver's license and access medical services and education. They can freely move within the Emirates and travel abroad without needing to obtain a new permit upon return.
Residents' obligations include compliance with local legislation and respect for Islamic traditions and culture. It is essential to renew your status promptly, as violating the migration regime can result in fines and deportation. They must pay taxes (if applicable), comply with the terms of the employment contract, and refrain from engaging in activities contrary to the norms of public behaviour.
Foreign nationals may lose their residence permits for serious offenses, such as fraud, making inappropriate social media posts or violating Sharia law.
How to renew residence permit in UAE
The extension of the residence permit depends on its category. For example, foreign nationals who have legalised through the purchase of real estate in Dubai or other emirates must confirm that the property remains in their ownership. Mandatory stages for extending residency include a medical examination, updating the Emirates ID, renewing the insurance policy, and submitting an application to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs.
An application for a residence permit in UAE with a list of necessary documents, including a passport and a 3x4 cm color photo, can also be submitted online. The review period ranges from a few days to 2 weeks, so the status extension process must begin before the current residence permit expires.
Key points about obtaining UAE residency
- Buyers of Dubai real estate worth AED 750,000 (USD 204,000) can obtain a 2-year residence permit.
- Buyers of real estate worth AED 2 million (USD 544,500) in any emirate can obtain a 5-year Golden Visa.
- Residents who have legalised through real estate purchase have the right to extend their status.
- Investors can include family members and sometimes domestic workers in their application.
- The principal applicant must be an adult, have no criminal record or dangerous diseases and confirm the availability of legal income.
- Refusal to issue a residence permit is possible in case of non-compliance with the criteria of the selected category, problems with documents, poor credit history or violations of visa rules in the past and participation in activities threatening the state's national security.