UAE Golden Visa by Nomination: Official 2025 Program
- Creimerman Product Team
- 11 hours ago
- 16 min read
The UAE Golden Visa by Nomination is an official long-term residency program in effect in 2025. It offers renewable 10-year visas to distinguished foreign nationals, allowing them to live, work, and study in the country. Unlike traditional paths based solely on large capital investment, this modality focuses on recognizing high-level professional, academic, or business achievements as the main criterion to obtain residency. In other words, it rewards talent and contribution to the country over direct financial input. This article explores in detail what the Golden Visa by Nomination is, how it works, who qualifies, its concrete benefits, the step-by-step process to obtain it, timelines, costs, and associated conditions, and why it represents a fast and low-threshold solution compared to other migration routes. Our company provides comprehensive assistance throughout the entire process, supporting the applicant from the initial evaluation to the successful issuance of their Golden Visa.
What is the Golden Visa by Nomination and how does it differ from the investment route?
The Golden Visa by Nomination is a long-term residency (10 years) granted by the UAE government to highly qualified foreigners or those with outstanding merits, without necessarily requiring a minimum financial investment in the country. Essentially, it is the same UAE Golden Visa but obtained through an official nomination based on the applicant's profile, rather than by meeting strict economic investment criteria. This initiative was originally introduced in 2019 to attract and retain “talented individuals and great minds” who can contribute to the country’s development. In 2025, the program remains active and has been strengthened with updated rules that facilitate access to more qualified candidates.
Key differences from the investment route:
The traditional investment route typically requires significant capital, for example, investing at least AED 2 million (about USD 545,000) in real estate or Emirati funds to qualify. This path is aimed at pure investors and, in some cases, grants a 5-year residency (renewable) when based on real estate of that value. In contrast, the Golden Visa by Nomination does not require such an amount of money; instead, the applicant must demonstrate exceptional credentials—such as a successful business career, academic or scientific achievements, high-level professional experience with financial solvency, or notable contributions in their industry. For example, an executive or specialist could obtain the nomination by presenting certificates of their achievements and a high-salary job offer, instead of investing a fixed sum. This modality broadens the scope of the Golden Visa to people who provide value through talent or initiatives, making the process more flexible and accessible than just fulfilling a financial requirement. It is important to note that those opting for nomination still receive the same 10-year Golden Visa benefits as an investor, as long as they meet the official eligibility criteria in their corresponding category. In summary, the Golden Visa by Nomination focuses on the applicant’s merit and potential contribution to the country, rather than their wallet. This makes it a very attractive alternative for high-profile professionals and entrepreneurs who wish to reside in a global hub like the UAE without having to make a large upfront investment.
Who qualifies for the Golden Visa by Nomination?
The program is aimed at a variety of outstanding profiles. In general terms, high-net-worth investors, entrepreneurs, and high-level professionals with financial solvency qualify, among other talents, provided they meet specific requirements. The main eligible categories include:
High-net-worth investors – Individuals who make significant financial investments in the UAE or have the resources to do so. Through the nomination path, an investor may be considered if they demonstrate the intention and capacity to invest in the country (whether through funds, businesses, or real estate), meeting established thresholds, or even through significant local tax contributions (e.g., paying at least AED 250,000 in annual taxes, according to regulations). Although an upfront disbursement is not required in all cases, the applicant must show strong financial solvency and a commitment to the Emirati economy.
Entrepreneurs and company founders – Owners of innovative businesses, startups, or futuristic and tech-based projects that drive economic growth. It is valued that they have a successful business track record or that their project is backed by accredited incubators in the UAE. For example, an entrepreneur may qualify if their company is valued at least AED 500,000 and is approved by a recognized incubator in the country. They must demonstrate that the venture involves risk and innovation, aligned with the UAE’s priority sectors.
Highly qualified professionals – Top-level experts in various disciplines (engineers, doctors, tech specialists, corporate executives, etc.) with proven achievements. This category generally requires credentials such as advanced degrees, extensive experience (e.g., minimum 5 years), and often a high salary that reflects their high-profile status (typically a monthly income of no less than AED 30,000–50,000). Additionally, certain professionals must obtain recommendation letters or local licenses: for example, a doctor must have an approval letter from the UAE Ministry of Health to practice, and a scientist must have a recommendation from the UAE Scientific Council. Generally, these professionals must possess highly demanded skills and contribute their knowledge to the country’s development.
Individuals with exceptional talents – Innovators, researchers, creatives, and other distinguished individuals in scientific, cultural, or sports fields. This includes scientists, inventors, artists, elite athletes, and even content creators or experts in strategic sectors (artificial intelligence, specialized engineering, etc.). Eligibility typically requires awards, patents, recognized publications, or official recognition. For example, inventors must present a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Economy validating their patent and its impact; artists or cultural figures may need a letter from the Ministry of Culture accrediting their influence. In all cases, the exceptional talent must be validated by the competent governmental entity before proceeding with the nomination.
Other outstanding candidates – In addition to the above, the program considers outstanding students and distinguished graduates, humanitarian pioneers leading charitable causes, and even so-called “frontline heroes” (such as healthcare personnel who played a crucial role during crises). These varied profiles share the requirement of having demonstrated extraordinary performance in their field. For instance, a university student with exceptional academic records may be nominated for residency upon graduation, and a healthcare worker recognized for exemplary service could also qualify.
Each category has specific eligibility criteria established in the UAE immigration regulations. In all cases, the applicant must be a foreigner (non-UAE citizen), of legal age, with a valid passport and a clean legal record (no criminal background). They must also have valid health insurance covering their stay in the UAE and, if applicable, fulfill any certification or licensing required to practice their profession in the country. In short, those who can demonstrate they are valuable contributors to the Emirati economy and society—through investment, entrepreneurship, or exceptional talents—qualify.
Tangible benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
Obtaining the Emirati Golden Visa brings a series of tangible benefits that make the UAE an extremely attractive destination for international investors and professionals. Notable advantages include:
Extended 10-year renewable residency – The holder receives an initial 10-year residence permit, significantly longer than standard visas, with the possibility of indefinite renewal as long as conditions continue to be met. This provides long-term stability, equivalent to de facto permanent residency.
Freedom to work and no local sponsor required – Unlike traditional work visas, the Golden Visa is self-sponsored. The beneficiary can live, work, or study anywhere in the UAE without being tied to a specific employer or local sponsor. They also don’t need additional work permits to practice professionally, simplifying labor mobility within the country.
Comprehensive family inclusion – Golden Visa holders can sponsor their direct family members broadly. It’s possible to include spouses and children (with no age limit, whether minors or adults) under the same long-term visa. In fact, recent regulations allow unmarried sons, unmarried daughters, and even dependent parents to be sponsored in some cases, facilitating the relocation of the entire family. Another benefit is the possibility of sponsoring an unlimited number of domestic workers (such as household staff, drivers, etc.) as needed. If the main holder passes away, family members may maintain residency until the permit’s expiration, providing additional security.
Multiple-entry and no minimum stay required – At the start of the process, the applicant receives a 6-month multi-entry visa to manage their residency issuance. Once the Golden Visa is granted, the holder can enter and exit the UAE freely without extra paperwork. Additionally, the standard rule of cancellation due to absence no longer applies: regular residencies are typically canceled if the holder spends more than 6 months outside the country, but this does not apply to the Golden Visa. In other words, there is no obligation to reside continuously in the UAE or to visit frequently to maintain status. This flexibility is ideal for global investors or entrepreneurs who need to travel constantly or maintain multiple international bases.
Tax-free personal environment – The UAE imposes no tax on personal income, wealth, capital gains, inheritance, or donations. Golden Visa holders are not taxed on income generated, whether locally or internationally, under the current tax regime. The UAE also has numerous double taxation treaties that prevent residents from paying duplicate taxes abroad. This is a major financial incentive, allowing optimal tax planning for high-income or high-net-worth individuals. Additionally, businesses benefit from a competitive tax framework (a low 9% corporate tax rate and tax-free zones in many sectors), complementing the appeal for entrepreneurship or business relocation.
Access to world-class banking and finance – With residency in hand, it becomes easier to open UAE bank accounts in multiple currencies (dirhams, dollars, euros, etc.), as well as access international financial services. Emirati banks are known for their strength and privacy, offering global investors a secure platform to manage their capital. Opportunities also open up for local credit, financing, and participation in the UAE’s dynamic real estate and stock markets, diversifying the resident’s investment portfolio.
High quality of life, safety, and premium services – Being a UAE resident means enjoying a first-class environment in terms of infrastructure, public safety, and services. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer high standards in housing, healthcare, education, and leisure. Golden Visa holders even receive exclusive perks such as fast-track lines in government procedures and discount programs. For example, they can access the Esaad card from the Dubai Police, which provides discounts on education, healthcare, accommodation, restaurants, and more at thousands of local and international establishments. In general, the Golden Visa grants a VIP resident status, with special treatment that enhances the experience of living or doing business in the country.
In summary, the Golden Visa offers an unmatched combination of long-term stability, financial advantages (tax-free status and banking access), freedom of movement, and family benefits—all within one of the world’s most prosperous and secure environments. This differentiated value proposition explains why the program has gained popularity among investors and professionals seeking a strategic second residency. Step-by-step process to obtain the Golden Visa by Nomination
The procedure to obtain a Golden Visa by Nomination in the UAE can be broken down into several well-defined stages, from the candidate’s initial assessment (KYC) to the final issuance of the residency visa. Below is a general step-by-step overview of the process:
Initial evaluation and KYC (Know Your Client): The first step involves assessing the applicant’s eligibility. This is usually conducted by the consulting firm or agent assisting with the process (for example, our team), who will carry out a KYC process to verify the client’s identity, background, and financial/professional profile. Key aspects analyzed include compliance with the criteria for one of the Golden Visa categories (investor, entrepreneur, professional, etc.), the availability of supporting documentation, and the absence of any impediments (e.g., criminal record). This initial evaluation confirms whether the applicant qualifies and helps define the best nomination strategy before initiating official procedures.
Gathering required documents: Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to compile the necessary documentation for the formal application. Documents vary by category, but typically include: copy of valid passport, recent passport-sized photos, updated resume, and evidence supporting the chosen category. For example, an investor would provide proof of investments, bank statements, and bank letters; a professional would submit apostilled academic degrees, employment certificates, licenses or registrations, and possibly a salary certificate or employment contract showing high income. For talent categories, recommendation letters from relevant authorities, awards, publications, patents, work portfolios, etc. are required. A valid health insurance policy covering the UAE is also essential, and certain documents may need to be officially translated into Arabic. Attention to detail in this phase is key: submitting a complete, well-organized file increases the chances of approval in the following stages.
Submission of the nomination application: With the documentation ready, the formal nomination request is submitted to the relevant Emirati authorities. This is generally done through the electronic platform of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) at the federal level or via local portals (e.g., TAMM in Abu Dhabi or GDRFA in Dubai, depending on the emirate). The applicant (or their agent) fills out a form indicating the desired category, enters their personal and professional data, and uploads all the gathered documents. A nomination review fee of approximately AED 350 is paid at this stage. Authorities will analyze the information to determine whether the applicant meets the criteria for the Golden Visa. It’s important to note that some nominations require a prior recommendation letter from a specific body: for instance, an entrepreneur may need an endorsement from a certified incubator, or an artist from the Ministry of Culture, before ICP approves the nomination. Our team ensures the request is properly channeled and any preliminary endorsements are obtained, sending the application to the right authority depending on the category.
Approval of the nomination: After submitting the application, there is a waiting period during which the authorities will review the case. ICP and other relevant departments examine the documents and credentials to verify that the candidate meets the requirements for the Golden Visa in the stated category. This review may include background checks, validation of degrees (sometimes requiring a Certificate of Equivalency from the UAE Ministry of Education for foreign degrees), follow-up calls or interviews, or requests for additional information. If everything is in order and the profile is approved, the applicant receives an approved nomination letter or official confirmation email. This approval is a key document that grants the applicant the right to proceed with the visa. If any evidence or requirement is missing, the authority may request clarification or, rarely, deny the nomination (which is uncommon if the file is properly prepared). Once approved, the applicant is practically guaranteed the Golden Visa, pending final administrative steps.
Entry visa (for applicants outside the UAE): If the applicant is outside the UAE when the nomination is approved, the next step is to obtain a temporary entry visa to travel to the country and complete the final steps. Authorities issue a 6-month multiple-entry permit that allows the beneficiary to travel to the UAE within that period. This is an electronic entry permit sent via email, which the applicant can use to enter the UAE without issues. Note that this interim visa is not necessary if the person is already residing in the UAE (for example, under an existing work visa, in which case a status change is processed internally). Either way, the 6-month permit provides ample time to finalize the post-nomination procedures. Upon arrival in the UAE, the applicant enters as a “Golden Visa Applicant” and may begin the final steps toward receiving the 10-year residency.
Final procedures in the UAE (medical exam and biometrics): As part of the standard procedure for any residency in the UAE, the applicant must undergo a medical examination and biometric data registration before the final visa is issued. The medical check includes blood tests and chest X-rays (mainly to screen for communicable diseases like tuberculosis) carried out at authorized clinics or hospitals. Biometric registration includes fingerprinting and a photograph for the Emirates ID (national identity document). These procedures are usually completed within a few days. Additionally, if the applicant was previously on another visa, the cancellation or conversion to the new Golden Visa will be processed. At this point, all requirements are practically fulfilled and the residency is ready to be issued.
Issuance of the Golden Visa and document delivery: With all requirements met, immigration authorities proceed to grant the long-term residency visa. Today, most UAE visas are electronically stamped onto the passport (e-visa), linked to the passport number, and the physical Emirates ID becomes the main proof of residency. The applicant will receive notifications and finally pick up their 10-year Emirates ID, which officially confirms their Golden Visa residency status. Congratulations – from this moment forward, you and your family (if included) can fully enjoy the benefits of residing in the UAE under this prestigious program. Our team typically supports the client in this final logistical phase as well, ensuring proper visa activation and providing post-delivery guidance (e.g., opening bank accounts, enrolling children in schools, etc., already taking advantage of the new status).
In total, this step-by-step process turns what might seem like a complex procedure into a clear path toward residency in the UAE. Although multiple steps and entities are involved, with proper coordination—and the support of expert advisors—the Golden Visa by Nomination becomes a smooth and safe process, free of unnecessary complications.
Processing times, costs, and conditions of the program
Estimated timelines:
The duration to obtain the Golden Visa by Nomination may vary depending on the applicant’s category and how quickly requirements are met, but it typically takes around 3 to 6 months from start to final issuance. In optimal cases (very strong profile with complete documentation), approvals have been seen in as little as 3 months. However, it is advisable to allow up to six months to cover potential delays in evaluations or in obtaining special documents. Compared to other migration routes, this is a rather fast process – for example, obtaining residency in some Western countries can take over a year. Also, the UAE Golden Visa becomes effective immediately upon approval, directly granting 5 or 10 years of residency depending on the category, whereas other programs may gradually lead to long-term residence.
Approximate costs:
The total cost of obtaining the UAE Golden Visa by Nomination through our firm starts from USD 35,000 (approximately AED 129,000), including full professional support, personalized nomination strategy, documentation handling, and end-to-end process management. Importantly, if the application is not approved, the professional fee is fully refundable. This ensures peace of mind and a risk-free experience for the applicant. Choosing a professional firm like ours maximizes approval chances and streamlines the process. We provide transparent pricing, no hidden costs, and full legal and procedural guidance. Unlike many “citizenship by investment” programs in other countries, the UAE Golden Visa by Nomination does not require a non-refundable donation to the government. Most of the cost reflects the value and documentation of your credentials—not a sunk or lost expense.
Conditions and commitments:
To maintain the Golden Visa throughout the years, the resident must uphold the conditions under which the visa was granted. This means, for example, that an investor must not withdraw the minimum investment that qualified them (for at least the required period, usually the full visa term of 5 or 10 years), and must continue fulfilling local tax payments if that was their basis. A professional should ideally continue working in their field and renew any necessary licenses or contracts, even if no longer tied to a specific employer. In practice, authorities may require proof of continued health insurance coverage and a clean legal record during residency. It's also advisable to report any significant changes in circumstances (e.g., changing employer or business structure). Upon reaching the time for renewal after ten years, authorities will reassess whether the resident still meets the category’s criteria (e.g., if they were an investor, that they still hold substantial investments in the UAE; if a scientist, that they remain active in their field, etc.). Thus, long-term planning is important: the Golden Visa offers great freedom but is intended for those who maintain a genuine and beneficial connection with the UAE. Fortunately, the conditions are not difficult to uphold for someone who qualified in the first place—the country wants to retain that talent or capital—and the renewal process is typically straightforward as long as local laws are respected.
Why the Golden Visa by Nomination is a fast, low-threshold solution
Compared to other migration or residency paths around the world, the UAE Golden Visa by Nomination is an exceptionally fast and low-entry-barrier solution, especially for those investors and highly skilled professionals seeking new global opportunities. The following reasons explain why this program has become one of the best options in 2025:
Accelerated and simplified process:
Obtaining long-term UAE residency through nomination is significantly faster and more direct than many traditional immigration systems. There’s no need to go through point systems, visa lotteries, or waitlists, as seen in highly demanded countries. With the right profile, the Golden Visa can be secured in a matter of months, whereas other alternatives (work visas, temporary residencies in the West, etc.) may take years to consolidate into permanent status. The UAE, in its drive to attract talent and investment, has optimized procedures to be efficient, digital, and clear—saving applicants time and effort.
Lower financial threshold compared to pure investment programs:
While “low threshold” is relative to the profile, the nomination route eliminates or reduces the need for large unrecoverable outlays. Many countries offer “golden visas” but require expensive real estate purchases, government bonds, or even donations ranging from $500K to $1M. By contrast, the UAE Golden Visa by Nomination can be obtained without paying a single cent in donation: if you're a qualified professional or entrepreneur, you don’t need to invest a large personal sum in the UAE to qualify—just demonstrate solvency and pay administrative fees. Even investors who must move funds do so as productive or real estate investments under their ownership—meaning they keep that capital’s value. This makes the program very cost-effective. For qualified talents, the “cost” lies in having built up experience, degrees, or achievements—something already inherently valuable in their career—rather than raising money to buy residency.
Flexible requirements tailored to the applicant’s profile:
Nomination offers multiple eligibility paths (investment, entrepreneurship, professional merit, scientific talent, etc.), which means there’s more than one way to qualify. This flexibility is a lower barrier compared to routes with a single strict filter. For example, if a candidate doesn’t have exactly AED 2 million to invest, they might still hold a PhD and scientific accomplishments that qualify them as exceptional talent. Another might not be a high-paid executive but owns an innovative tech startup backed by a UAE incubator, qualifying as an entrepreneur. The variety of categories (even including top students and humanitarian pioneers) ensures that different types of candidates can find a place in the program. In other words, the UAE has lowered the barrier by recognizing diverse merits, significantly widening the potential applicant base compared to countries that only value invested money.
Immediate benefits and attractive environment:
The Golden Visa by Nomination offers benefits from day one that, in many cases, other routes take years to provide (if at all). For example, instead of going through temporary 1- or 2-year residencies before achieving permanence, the UAE grants 5 or 10 years of stability from the start—practically equivalent to permanent residence. This, combined with zero personal tax and the opportunity to settle in a safe country with first-world quality of life, makes the UAE a highly competitive destination. For a global investor, having residency in an international financial center like Dubai facilitates travel, regional business management, and geopolitical risk diversification. For a professional, adding “resident in Dubai” to their resume opens business and career opportunities across the Middle East. It’s a strategic move with a high return in global access.
No continuous residency requirement or post-visa hassle:
Unlike other residencies that require spending a minimum number of days per year in the country to maintain status, the Golden Visa has no minimum stay requirement. The holder can manage their international schedule freely, without fearing visa revocation due to absence. This reduces the opportunity cost of committing to a second country, since you don’t have to sacrifice your home life or business; the Golden Visa is highly compatible with a global agenda. Also, being valid for 10 years, it cuts down on renewal frequency and recurring migration paperwork. Renewal after a decade is simple and bureaucratically light if all remains in order. In short, daily life under the Golden Visa proceeds with minimal government interference: no constant paperwork or travel restrictions—unlike other visas that demand new documents, physical presence, and fees every couple of years.
All these factors make the Golden Visa by Nomination one of the fastest, most accessible, and convenient routes to residency in a stable and prosperous country. It’s no coincidence that the UAE is considered “the perfect opportunity for investors” and global talents seeking to expand their horizons.
Expert guidance for a successful process:
It is worth emphasizing that although the program is designed to be user-friendly, the support of experienced professionals makes the difference between a frustrating process and a smooth one. Our firm has a specialized team in UAE residencies that will guide you from the initial KYC evaluation to full relocation, managing documentation, official communications, and every administrative detail. With the right guidance, securing your Golden Visa by Nomination can be a highly efficient and safe procedure, allowing you to reap the benefits of residing in such a privileged destination as the United Arab Emirates in just a few months. The UAE offers a bright future for those who qualify, and we are here to help you seize this opportunity in the best possible way. Ready to unlock 10 years of residency in the UAE?
If you’re a qualified professional, investor, or entrepreneur seeking global opportunities, the UAE Golden Visa by Nomination could be your gateway. Contact our expert team today for a personalized eligibility assessment and start your journey to living, working, and thriving in Dubai—one of the world’s most dynamic and tax-friendly destinations.
