Program overview
United Arab Emirates Golden Visa
The United Arab Emirates Golden Visa grants qualifying investors and their families the right to live in United Arab Emirates. It is typically chosen for a second base, access to education and greater freedom of movement.
Eligibility, qualifying investments and obligations are set by the government and change over time. We confirm the current position before any recommendation is made.
Suitability
Who it may suit — and who should look elsewhere
Who it may suit
- Families wanting a long-term base outside their home country
- Investors who value the security of a recognised residency status
- Those planning education or relocation within the next few years
Who should consider alternatives
- You need a second passport rather than residency
- Your plans depend on spending little or no time in the country and the route requires presence
- Liquidity matters more than holding a qualifying investment for several years
Investment routes
How to qualify
Family eligibility
Who can be included
The main applicant may typically include: spouse, children, parents. Age limits and dependency rules apply and are confirmed for each family.
Process & timeline
From assessment to approval
Step 01
Suitability assessment
We confirm eligibility and compare this program with the alternatives.
1–2 weeks
Step 02
Documents & due diligence
Personal documents are gathered, certified and translated.
[X] weeks
Step 03
Qualifying investment
The investment is made through the agreed route, with legal oversight.
[X] weeks
Step 04
Application & approval
The application is filed and followed through to approval.
[X] weeks
Step 05
Renewal & review
We track renewal dates and regulatory changes on your behalf.
Ongoing
Important considerations
- Program rules, thresholds and quotas can change with little notice.
- Residency does not by itself create tax residency; tax advice should be taken separately.
- Holding periods may apply to the qualifying investment.
Key benefits
What the program offers
Right to live
Residency rights in United Arab Emirates for the whole qualifying family.
Mobility
Easier travel within the region, depending on the jurisdiction.
Education
Access to local schools and universities for dependants.
Alternatives worth comparing
Before you decide
Europe
Greece
Residency by Investment
Schengen residency linked to real estate, with broad family inclusion.
- Indicative minimum
- €[amount]
- Indicative timeline
- [X] months
- Family eligibility
- Spouse, children, parents
Europe
Cyprus
Permanent Residency
EU permanent residency with a straightforward route to establishing a base.
- Indicative minimum
- €[amount]
- Indicative timeline
- [X] months
- Family eligibility
- Spouse, dependent children
Europe
Malta
Permanent Residence Programme
Permanent residence in an English-speaking EU state, without a stay requirement.
- Indicative minimum
- €[amount]
- Indicative timeline
- [X] months
- Family eligibility
- Spouse, children, parents, grandparents
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Physical presence requirements differ by program. We explain exactly what is expected before you commit.
Some residency routes can lead to naturalisation after a period of genuine residence. We set out the realistic timeline for your circumstances.
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