Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi: Eligibility, Costs, Process (2025)

Abu Dhabi has introduced new policies to attract skilled people, investors, and entrepreneurs from around the world. One of the most important of these is the Golden Visa programme. This initiative is part of the UAE’s broader plan to support long-term growth, economic stability, and talent development.

The Golden Visa gives foreign nationals a chance to build a future in Abu Dhabi with greater confidence and fewer restrictions. Whether someone is a professional working in healthcare or technology, an investor starting a business, or a student with high academic results, the Golden Visa is designed to support long-term goals.

For many people, the visa removes the pressure of short-term residency and provides a clear path to personal and professional security in the UAE. To make the process easier, many applicants choose to work with pro services, which can assist with document preparation, submissions, and staying up to date with requirements.

What is the Abu Dhabi Golden Visa?

The Abu Dhabi Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa that allows foreigners to live in Abu Dhabi for either 5 years or 10 years, depending on the category they apply under. It is part of the UAE’s national strategy to attract and retain people who can contribute to the country's success.

This visa is given to certain groups such as investors, business owners, skilled workers, scientists, creatives, and students with high academic performance. It is also available to people with special talents or those who have made key contributions in their field.

Main Features of the Golden Visa:

• Long-term residence: Either 5 or 10 years, with automatic renewal if conditions are still met.

• No need for a local sponsor: The visa holder can be self-sponsored.

• Work and live freely: Visa holders can work, open a business, and live in Abu Dhabi.

• Family sponsorship: The visa holder can sponsor their spouse, children, and in some cases, domestic workers.

• Full business ownership: Investors and entrepreneurs can fully own their businesses in Abu Dhabi without needing a local partner.

• Stability: Long-term visa holders can stay in the UAE even if their job status changes.

The Golden Visa is an important part of Abu Dhabi’s efforts to become a global centre for business, research, and innovation. It also helps individuals and families build a more stable life in the UAE.

Eligibility Golden Visa Categories for 2025

The Abu Dhabi Golden Visa is available to certain groups of people who meet the required conditions. These categories are based on the person’s work, skills, or investment in the UAE. Each group has different rules and documents needed, but all must show that they add value to the country.

Real Estate and Business Investors

Investors who own property in Abu Dhabi with a value of at least AED 2 million can apply for the Golden Visa. The property must be fully paid or financed through a recognised UAE bank. Business investors who have established or hold shares in a UAE-registered company may also qualify, especially those looking to set up their business in Abu Dhabi through a trusted provider. Proof of ownership and financial statements are required.

Entrepreneurs and Startup Founders

Entrepreneurs must own or be a partner in a registered startup based in the UAE. The company should be classed as a small or medium enterprise (SME) with annual revenues of at least AED 1 million. If the business is not yet profitable, applicants may still qualify if they have a business plan approved by an official incubator or startup authority in Abu Dhabi.

Skilled Professionals

Highly qualified professionals in fields such as medicine, engineering, science, information technology, law, education, and business are eligible if they have a valid employment contract in the UAE and a monthly salary of at least AED 30,000. A bachelor's degree or higher is required, and the job must be classified as one of the priority occupations identified by the government.

Outstanding Students and Graduates

High-performing students in UAE secondary schools with a grade average of 95% or more may apply, with sponsorship extended to their family. University graduates from top-ranked local or international institutions can also apply if their GPA is 3.5 or above, and their degree is in a field relevant to the UAE’s development. A recommendation from the university or educational authority may be needed.

Humanitarian Workers and Creatives

This category includes individuals working with recognised humanitarian organisations or in fields that serve public welfare, such as social work, volunteering, and non-profit leadership. Creative professionals in arts, culture, media, and design may also apply, but they must provide a portfolio and proof of recognition by cultural or professional bodies in the UAE.

Individuals with Special Talents

Applicants who have shown excellence in sports, arts, innovation, or research can apply under this category. This includes athletes, inventors, researchers, and artists who have received awards or industry recognition. A letter of recommendation from a relevant UAE-based institution or authority, such as the Ministry of Culture or General Sports Authority, is usually required.

Golden Visa Requirements

Each category of the Golden Visa has its own rules, but most applicants must provide the following key documents and meet certain conditions. These help the UAE government confirm eligibility and make sure all records are valid and complete.

1. Valid Passport

A passport with at least six months of validity is required. It must be clear and not damaged.

2. Recent Passport-Sized Photograph

A recent coloured photo with a white background is needed. It must follow the UAE photo size and quality rules.

3. Emirates ID (if already in the UAE)

If the applicant is already living in the UAE, a copy of their Emirates ID is required.

4. Entry Permit or Residency Visa (if applicable)

Applicants already in the UAE must include their current residency visa or entry permit.

5. Proof of Eligibility

Each category has its own proof:

• Investors: Title deed or company licence

• Professionals: Valid work contract and educational certificates

• Students: Academic transcripts and school/university letters

• Talents: Awards, portfolio, or recommendation letters

6. Medical Fitness Certificate

A health check from a government-approved medical centre in the UAE is required. The person must be free from infectious diseases.

7. Good Conduct Certificate

Also called a police clearance certificate, this proves that the applicant has no criminal record in the UAE or from their home country.

8. Health Insurance

Valid health insurance from a UAE-licensed provider must be shown. It should cover the length of the visa.

9. Bank Statements (if required)

Some categories, such as investors or professionals, may need to submit bank statements showing income, savings, or company earnings for the past 6 months.

10. Salary Certificate (for Professionals)

Professionals must provide a letter from their employer showing their job title and monthly salary, issued within the last 30 days.

11. Business or Property Ownership Proof (for Investors and Entrepreneurs)

Applicants must provide legal documents that prove they own a business or property. These include trade licences, shareholder certificates, or real estate title deeds.

How to Apply for the Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi

The application process for the Golden Visa in Abu Dhabi is managed by government platforms such as TAMM and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). The process can be completed online or through an approved service centre. Below are the main steps:

Step 1. Determine Your Eligibility Category

Before starting the application, the applicant must first identify the correct visa category that applies to them (e.g. investor, skilled worker, student). Each category has its own conditions, so it is important to check the latest eligibility criteria on the official TAMM portal or the ICP website.

Step 2. Prepare All Required Documents

The applicant must collect all the documents listed for their category. These include:

• Passport copy

• Passport-sized photo

• Proof of eligibility (such as a degree, property title deed, business licence, or award certificate)

• Medical fitness certificate

• Good conduct certificate

• Health insurance policy

• Bank statements and salary slips, if required

All documents must be clear, valid, and in Arabic or English. Some documents may need to be attested or translated.

Step 3. Submit Online Application via TAMM or ICP Portal

Applications can be submitted through one of the following platforms:

• TAMM (tamm.abudhabi) – the official Abu Dhabi government services portal

• ICP Smart Services (icp.gov.ae) – the federal platform for visa and residency services

The applicant must create an account, fill in personal details, upload documents, and choose the visa type. A confirmation message will be sent after submission.

Step 4. Pay the Application Fee

Once the application is submitted, the system will ask for payment of the visa processing fee. The total cost depends on the visa category and duration (5 or 10 years), and may include:

• Medical test fee

• Emirates ID fee

• Residency fee

• Application service charge

Fees must be paid online using a credit or debit card.

Step 5. Attend Medical Test and Biometrics (if inside UAE)

If the applicant is already in the UAE, they will be asked to attend a medical examination at an approved centre. This includes a blood test and chest X-ray. First-time applicants must also visit an authorised centre to register fingerprints and take a photo for their Emirates ID.

Step 6. Application Review and Approval

After all steps are complete, the authorities will review the application. This may take a few days to a few weeks depending on the category. If more documents are needed, the applicant will be contacted by email or SMS.

Step 7. Receive Golden Visa and Emirates ID

Once approved, the applicant will receive:

• A residency visa sticker in their passport (if applying from within the UAE)

• A new Emirates ID valid for 5 or 10 years, depending on the visa duration

If the applicant was outside the UAE during the process, they will first receive an entry permit, then complete medicals and biometrics after arriving.

Golden Visa Costs (2025)

The total cost of the Abu Dhabi Golden Visa depends on the applicant’s category, whether they are applying from inside or outside the UAE, and the duration of the visa (5 or 10 years). Below is a general breakdown of the common fees:

Additional Costs to Consider

• Family Members: If the applicant is sponsoring family, the same fees apply for each dependent.

• Typing Centre or Service Fees: Optional, if using a service centre or consultant to submit the application.

• Visa Stamping (if applying from inside UAE): Additional fees may apply for visa cancellation and new visa stamping.

Tips to Increase Golden Visa Approval Chances

Meeting the minimum requirements is important, but taking extra care with your application can improve your chances of approval. Below are some helpful tips:

1. Submit All Documents in Full and On Time

Make sure all required documents are included, complete, and up to date. Incomplete or outdated documents are one of the main reasons for application delays or rejections.

2. Get Documents Properly Translated and Attested

If your documents are in a language other than English or Arabic, they must be translated by a certified translator. Some documents may also need legal attestation, especially education certificates or foreign-issued documents.

3. Choose the Right Visa Category

Make sure you apply under the correct visa category based on your current work, investment, or skills. Applying under the wrong category can lead to rejection, even if you qualify under another one.

4. Provide Clear Proof of Eligibility

Include strong, clear proof to support your application. For example:

• Property title deeds or business licences for investors

• University transcripts and recommendation letters for students

• Employment contracts and salary slips for professionals

• Awards, publications, or portfolio samples for talents

5. Maintain a Clean Legal Record

A police clearance certificate showing no criminal record is required. If you have any legal issues, resolve them before applying.

6. Keep Your Health Insurance and Medical Test Updated

Make sure your health insurance policy is valid for the full duration of the visa. Complete the medical fitness test at a government-approved centre before submission or as instructed.

7. Stay Updated on Policy Changes

Visa policies can change. Always check the official TAMM or ICP website for the latest updates before applying.

8. Consider Using a Registered Visa Consultant

If you're unsure about the process or need help with paperwork, a licensed visa service provider can help you prepare and submit your application correctly.