The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa introduced to attract highly skilled professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, and specialized talents to contribute to the UAE's economic growth. It offers longer residency options and greater benefits compared to standard visas.

Eligibility for the UAE Golden Visa varies based on the category but generally includes investors, entrepreneurs, individuals with outstanding talents such as researchers, medical professionals, and those in the fields of science and knowledge, as well as outstanding students and graduates.

Yes, investment is typically required for obtaining a UAE Golden Visa, but the specific amount and type of investment depend on the visa category you are applying for. Here are some key scenarios:

• Investors in Real Estate: Must invest in property worth at least AED 2 million (approximately $545,000).

• Entrepreneurs: Need to invest in a new business venture or a startup. While there isn’t a fixed minimum for entrepreneurs, having a substantial, viable business plan is crucial, and sometimes a minimum investment of AED 500,000 ($136,000) is recommended.

• Individuals Investing in Public Investments or Established Companies: Must invest at least AED 10 million (approximately $2.7 million) in public investments or into an existing or new company.

For applicants not directly investing, such as researchers, scientists, and creative talents in culture and art, other criteria based on talent and contributions to the respective field apply, and investment may not be required.

Each of these categories comes with its own set of rules and benefits, so it's important to identify which one aligns best with your circumstances and financial capacity. This structured investment approach aims to attract and retain high-value individuals who can contribute significantly to the UAE’s socio-economic development.

The UAE Golden Visa is typically issued for 5 or 10 years and is automatically renewable provided the visa holder continues to meet the eligibility criteria.

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa include longer residency, more stability, fewer restrictions on visa renewals, and the ability to sponsor family members and domestic staff. It also allows for more flexibility in terms of employment and business activities within the UAE.

Unlike other residency visas, the UAE Golden Visa does not typically require a minimum stay in the UAE to maintain its validity, making it ideal for those who travel frequently or reside in multiple countries.

Applicants must first ensure they meet the eligibility criteria for their respective category. The application can usually be initiated online through the official UAE government portal or through various authorized typing centers. The process involves submitting the necessary documentation to prove eligibility, such as investment proof, a business plan for entrepreneurs, or proof of talent for individuals with specialized skills.