Golden Visa in Dubai 2025 – How to Apply, Eligibility, Costs

The Golden Visa in Dubai is a long‑term residency permit introduced by UAE authorities to encourage foreign investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals and talented individuals to live, work and contribute to the UAE. For many, this visa represents stability, flexibility and a chance to establish roots — whether via real estate investment, business ventures, bank deposits, or exceptional talent. The visa offers residency for 5 or 10 years, and in many cases is renewable. With this in hand, you gain the right to sponsor dependents, access banking, education and government services, and enjoy greater freedom of movement across the emirates such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

As a leading international law firm with deep regional insight, Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP guides clients through the Golden Visa process — ensuring compliance with UAE regulations and a smooth pathway to residency.

Who Can Apply: Eligibility Categories

There are multiple routes to qualify for a Golden Visa. The most common ones for Dubai include real estate investors, bank deposit investors, entrepreneurs/business owners, and high‑skilled or high‑talent individuals.

1. Real Estate Investors

1. Individuals who own freehold property or combination of properties in Dubai with a total value of at least AED 2,000,000.
2. The property can be mortgaged, provided the investor’s individual share meets the AED 2,000,000 threshold and required documentation is presented.
3. The investment may comprise one property or multiple properties, but the aggregate official valuation matters.

2. Bank Deposit / Investment-Fund Investors

1. Individuals who place a fixed deposit or invest funds of at least AED 2,000,000 in a UAE‑based bank or approved investment fund.
2. The funds must be fully owned (not borrowed) and often required to remain frozen or under control for a specified time (for example two years) to satisfy visa conditions.

3. Entrepreneurs and Business Owners

1. Individuals who own or co‑own a UAE‑based company where the capital invested or paid-up share is at least AED 2,000,000.
2. In case of companies registered in free zones or special development zones, additional supporting documents may be required (like a “To Whom It May Concern” certificate).

4. Skilled Professionals, Researchers, Talents and Special Categories

For individuals with high academic, professional or creative achievement — doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, artists, researchers — there are talent-based Golden Visa paths. Applicants usually need to demonstrate exceptional merit, achievements or recognized contributions.

5. Basic General Eligibility Requirements

• Applicant must be at least 18 years old.
• Clean criminal record, no deportation or previous visa refusals.
• Valid passport and legal documentation.
• Proof of financial investment or holdings per the chosen category.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process

Applying for Golden Visa in Dubai involves several sequential steps. The procedures may vary slightly depending on the category (real estate, deposit, business, talent), but the general flow remains similar. Here is how Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP guides clients smoothly through each phase.

1. Prepare Documentation

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• UAE visa copy (if currently residing in UAE)
• Title deed(s) or property valuation(s) (for real estate investors) or bank deposit certificate (for deposit investors)
• Trade license, company financial statements, audit reports (for entrepreneurs/business owners)
• Proof of professional credentials, achievements, accreditation letters (for talent-based applicants)
• Passport-size photos, health-insurance proof (mandatory), Emirates ID application forms

2. Submit Application to the Right Authority

Depending on your category, applications are processed either by entity authorities such as the Dubai Land Department (DLD), or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) / General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFA). Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP completes and submits all paperwork on your behalf to avoid errors or delays.

3. Undergo Medical Fitness Test & Biometrics

All Golden Visa applicants must undergo a mandatory medical fitness check, which typically involves a standard health screening at a registered medical facility. Biometric data is also collected for the 10-year Emirates ID. Medical and ID fees are part of the overall visa cost.

4. Receive Visa Approval and Residency Permit

Once approved, your 10-year residency visa will be stamped on your passport. You will receive your Emirates ID and residency status, enabling you to officially live, work, and conduct business in Dubai and across the UAE.

5. Sponsor Family if Desired

One of the greatest benefits of Golden Visa is the ability to sponsor spouse, children, and sometimes parents (subject to conditions), offering long-term residency for the entire family under one application.

Costs and Fees: What to Budget For

The total cost of obtaining a Golden Visa depends largely on the route you choose and additional services such as medical tests, ID issuance, admin fees, and third‑party agency or legal fees. Below is a breakdown of typical costs in 2025 for Dubai.

1. Cost via Real Estate Investment

• Minimum property investment: AED 2,000,000 (may be higher depending on property location and valuation)
• Government/processing fees (for visa issuance, residency permit, evaluation): often totals around AED 8,000–9,000
• Medical fitness test: approx. AED 700–800
• Emirates ID (10 years): approx. AED 1,150–1,200
• Additional administrative, valuation, registration, translation or service charges may vary — especially if dealing with mortgages, joint ownership, or property management.

Roughly, excluding property purchase cost, you should budget AED 9,800–10,500 for the visa processing and related fees.

2. Cost via Bank Deposit or Investment Fund

• Minimum deposit/investment: AED 2,000,000 held in accredited UAE bank or fund (must be genuine and fully owned).
• Visa fee, medical and ID: often totals around AED 4,600–5,000 for a 10‑year visa, assuming no extra services.
• Other potential costs: document translations, banking/holding certification, legal or consultancy service fees, health insurance.

3. Additional and Hidden Costs to Keep in Mind

• Property registration, valuation certificates, possible property‑transfer taxes or fees if purchasing real estate.
• Health insurance premiums for you and family — mandatory for UAE residents.
• Possible agency or legal service fees if using third‑party support, translation charges, administrative charges, or property maintenance.
• Sponsor‑related costs (if including spouse, children or parents) — which increase visa fees and ID costs accordingly.

4. Why Costs Vary Slightly Across Emirates

Although the Golden Visa framework is federal, minor differences exist between emirates (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.) because of varying land registration/deposit procedures, processing charges and local implementation. Always confirm the latest fees with the relevant authority.

Benefits of Holding a Golden Visa

• Long-term residency (5–10 years) with option to renew
• Ability to sponsor spouse, children and in many cases parents
• Freedom to live, work, start or own business in UAE without a local sponsor
• Access to banking, education, healthcare, property management, and property investment opportunities
• More security and stability for expatriates — ideal for entrepreneurs, investors, professionals and globally mobile families
• Opportunity to leverage UAE’s strategic location and booming real estate/ business environment for long-term growth

Tax and Financial Benefits of Golden Visa Holders

Golden Visa holders in Dubai and across the UAE enjoy multiple financial and tax advantages that make long-term residency highly attractive. While the UAE has no personal income tax, Golden Visa holders can also benefit from:

• 100% foreign ownership of business in free zones without requiring a local partner, which applies to Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah.
• Access to UAE banking services with higher deposit and investment limits for residents with Golden Visa status.
• Expat-friendly tax environment, including zero capital gains tax on property sales, no inheritance tax, and no corporate tax for qualifying SMEs or investment vehicles.
• Eligibility for preferential rates on utilities, government services, and educational institutions, making it easier for families and professionals to settle.

Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP ensures that your Golden Visa status is fully optimized for tax efficiency while complying with UAE regulations.

Business Opportunities for Golden Visa Holders

Holding a Golden Visa unlocks a variety of business and entrepreneurial opportunities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and across the UAE. Investors and entrepreneurs can:

1. Start and expand businesses in UAE free zones, taking advantage of full ownership, zero corporate taxes, and access to international markets.
2. Invest in high-potential real estate developments with the ability to live onsite or near key projects.
3. Participate in government-sponsored investment initiatives, including innovation hubs, tech parks, and financial incentive programs.
4. Hire and sponsor international talent without requiring additional local sponsorships, streamlining business operations.

With our firm’s experience across cross-border legal and corporate advisory, Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP helps Golden Visa holders identify and act on high-return business opportunities while staying fully compliant with UAE law.

Family Sponsorship and Education Advantages

One of the most compelling benefits of the Dubai Golden Visa is the ability to sponsor family members, creating long-term stability for residents. Families can enjoy:

• Sponsorship of spouse, children, and in some cases parents, granting them 5 or 10-year residency tied to your status.
• Access to premium schools and universities across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other UAE emirates, including British, American, and IB curricula.
• Healthcare access at UAE hospitals and clinics under the required health insurance plans, ensuring world-class medical support.
• Simplified visa renewal processes for dependents when their sponsor’s Golden Visa is renewed.

Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP provides expert guidance for family sponsorship applications, handling paperwork, medical checks, and Emirates ID issuance to make the process seamless.

Residency Flexibility and Travel Benefits

Golden Visa holders enjoy enhanced mobility and residency flexibility across the UAE and internationally. Key advantages include:

• Long-term residency security with visas valid for 5 or 10 years, reducing the stress of annual renewals.
• Travel ease with ability to enter and exit Dubai and other UAE emirates freely while holding valid residency.
• Opportunities for multi-country operations, as many investors and entrepreneurs hold UAE residency to facilitate cross-border trade and business expansion.
• Potential pathway to citizenship or permanent residency for exceptional investors and talent under UAE government discretion in the future.

With Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP’s support, Golden Visa holders can maximize these travel and residency benefits while ensuring full compliance with UAE immigration laws.

Why Choose Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP to Assist Your Golden Visa Application

As an international law firm operating across Dubai, UAE, UK, Singapore and Bangladesh, Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP offers unmatched cross-border legal expertise combined with deep regional knowledge. Here’s how we stand out:

• We guide clients — from wealthy individuals, entrepreneurs, to corporate investors — through complex documentation and compliance steps.
• We liaise with UAE authorities (DLD, ICP, GDRFA) on your behalf to reduce the risk of delays or rejection.
• We keep you informed about changing regulations, fee updates, and best investment strategies (real estate vs deposit vs business).
• For clients from Bangladesh or other countries in South Asia, we provide tailored counsel considering home‑country legal and financial implications.
• Our firm’s reputation for integrity, precision, and cross‑border service makes the process stress-free, transparent and professional.

If your goal is to secure long-term residency in Dubai with minimal friction — and possibly bring your family — our team ensures a smooth and legally compliant pathway.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion and Next Steps

Securing a Golden Visa in Dubai can open doors for long‑term residence, business, education and stability for you and your family. Whether you are a real estate investor, an entrepreneur with a UAE business, or a skilled professional with global ambitions, the Golden Visa offers a robust and flexible solution.

At Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP we understand the legal and procedural complexity involved. We ensure your application is handled professionally, completely and efficiently — positioning you for success from Day One.

If you are ready to explore your Golden Visa eligibility or want guidance on the best investment/funding route tailored to your profile, contact Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP today. Our team is ready to assist.

Contact Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP now to schedule a consultation. Let our experienced legal experts guide you step‑by‑step through the Golden Visa process and secure your future in Dubai.