A complete guide to the UAE Golden Visa for real estate investors
For foreign investors, the UAE’s Golden Visa for real estate purchases presents an attractive opportunity. With its strategic position, dynamic markets, and innovative policies, the UAE is a leading investment destination. If you’re considering buying property in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE, this long-term residency option could be the key to unlocking numerous benefits, as detailed in this comprehensive guide.
This guide provides a complete overview of the Golden Visa program for real estate in the UAE, detailing eligibility, requirements, the application process, and the advantages of obtaining one.
1. Potentially benefit from favorable tax policies and investment incentives
The United Arab Emirates’ Golden Visa program is structured to attract investors, professionals, and talented individuals from across the globe. Real estate investment provides a pathway to eligibility for this program, and those holding investment visas in Dubai are afforded exclusive privileges that can substantially improve their opportunities within the UAE.
Golden Visas provide investors with several key benefits, including:
6-Month Entry Visa: The six-month entry visa, allowing multiple entries, streamlines the application for a residence permit.
Long-term Stability: Enjoy long-term residency in the UAE with a renewable 10-year investor visa.
No Sponsor Required: The Golden Visa provides a pathway to live and work in the UAE without the obligation of having a local sponsor, a distinction from standard visa processes.
Family-Friendly: This program is designed for families, enabling them to sponsor spouses, children of any age, and domestic workers.
Freedom to Stay Abroad: Residency status in the UAE is not automatically revoked if an individual resides outside the country for a period exceeding six months.
2. What are the eligibility requirements for the UAE Golden Visa?
Dubai’s Golden Visa welcomes a diverse group of individuals. It’s available to entrepreneurs, scientists, high-achieving students and graduates, and those who have made significant humanitarian contributions or served as frontline workers. Real estate investors are also a key group targeted by this program.
A UAE Golden Visa offers the chance to live, work, or study in the country, along with several exclusive advantages. It demonstrates the UAE’s dedication to attracting and retaining top talent across various sectors, enriching its diverse and multicultural society.
Dubai Golden Visa
What are the requirements for a 10-Year UAE Golden Visa Through Real Estate Investment?
To qualify for a 10-Year Golden Visa in the UAE through real estate investment, you must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum Property Value: You must own one or more properties worth at least AED 2 million. This can include properties that are still under construction (off-plan) and properties with a mortgage.
- Shared Ownership: If the property is co-owned, such as with a spouse, your individual share must be valued at least AED 2 million.
- Property Purchase with a Mortgage: If your property has a mortgage, you’ll need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the bank to support your application.
- Off-Plan Properties: For off-plan properties, you must demonstrate that the property’s value is at least AED 2 million and that construction is at least 50% complete. You also need to have paid 50% of the total property value upfront.
Important Note:
- You must be physically present in the UAE when applying for the UAE Golden Visa.
- The visa is renewable upon expiration, as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
- Regulations can vary between emirates. For example, the Abu Dhabi Residents Office requires that the investment be maintained for at least two years after the real estate investment visa is granted.
Learn More About the Investment Visa
Here are the essential documents needed for a 10-year Golden Visa through real estate investment:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the application date.
- Property Title Deed: This document, issued by the Dubai Land Department (DLD), proves your property ownership.
- Recent Photo: A recent, high-quality photograph that meets the specifications of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
- Emirates ID: If you are a UAE resident, provide a copy of your Emirates ID.
- Health Insurance: A copy of your health insurance policy from a UAE-based provider.
How Can You Apply for a Golden Visa as a Real Estate Investor?
You can apply for the real estate investor Golden Visa through these methods:
Online Application:
- Visit the ICP Smart Services website.
- Navigate to the Golden Visa services section.
- Complete the application form.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- You will receive confirmation of your application via email.
Golden Visa Service Centers:
- Visit the Golden Cube at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
- Obtain a queue ticket upon arrival.
- Complete the application form.
- Submit all required documents.
- Pay the necessary fees.
Amer Service Centers:
- Visit your nearest Amer center.
- Obtain a queue ticket upon arrival.
- Complete the application form.
- Submit all required documents.
- Pay the required fees.
Golden Visa Real Estate
What Are the Fees for Issuing a Golden Visa for Real Estate Investors?
The approximate cost for a Golden Visa for real estate investors in Dubai is AED 9,684.75. These fees are subject to change and may differ based on individual circumstances or additional processing fees.
Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
- Medical Examination: AED 700
- Emirates ID (10 years): AED 1,153
- Residency Fees (10 years): AED 2,656.75
- Dubai Land Department Fees: AED 4,020
- Administrative Fees: AED 1,155
FAQs
Can I Get Permanent Residency in the UAE Through Real Estate Investment?
The Golden Visa offers long-term residency, but it is not considered permanent residency.
How Long Is the Validity of a Golden Visa for Real Estate Investors?
The visa is valid for 10 years and is renewable, provided the investor continues to meet the requirements.
What is the minimum property cost to obtain a 10-Year Golden Visa?
The minimum property value for a Golden Visa through real estate investment is AED 2 million (approximately $545,000).
Are there other ways to get a residence permit through real estate investment in the UAE?
Yes! Investors owning property in the UAE worth AED 750,000 (approximately $204,000) or more may be eligible for a two-year renewable residence permit under the Taskeen Programme. This offers a shorter-term option compared to the 10-year Golden Visa.