UAE Golden Visa Nomination – Here’s How it Works

UAE Golden Visa Nomination. The UAE Golden Visa is a prestigious long-term residence visa that has been designed to attract expatriates who possess exceptional skills, talents, or investments. It provides them with the opportunity to live, work, or study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. This initiative has gained significant attention from investors, scientists, entrepreneurs, outstanding students, and professionals in various fields. The UAE Golden Visa program is particularly appealing for those who wish to benefit from long-term residency in the country.
In this article, we will delve into the nomination process, benefits, eligibility criteria, and more to help you understand the ins and outs of obtaining a UAE Golden Visa.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa introduced by the UAE government to attract exceptional talent, investors, and entrepreneurs to the country. Unlike standard work or residence visas, the Golden Visa is designed to provide a pathway for those with extraordinary talents or business ventures that align with the UAE’s strategic goals.
This residency program is particularly geared towards people who have made significant contributions in various fields such as technology, medicine, science, entrepreneurship, arts, sports, and more. It is available to investors, professionals, outstanding students, and humanitarian pioneers, among others.
Eligibility for the UAE Golden Visa
The eligibility criteria for the UAE Golden Visa are quite extensive. The visa is intended for people who can make valuable contributions to the UAE’s economy and society. Some of the key categories eligible for the Golden Visa include:
- Investors – Those who invest a significant amount of capital in the UAE.
- Entrepreneurs – Business owners and innovators in various sectors such as technology, business, and research.
- Scientists – Experts in fields like medicine, engineering, and technology.
- Outstanding Students and Graduates – High-achieving students and graduates who have demonstrated academic excellence.
- Humanitarian Pioneers – Individuals making significant contributions to social causes.
- Frontline Heroes – Healthcare professionals, and others who have played a key role in pandemic responses.
If you are an Indian citizen, the UAE has introduced special provisions to make it easier for you to obtain a Golden Visa, further broadening the scope of this visa’s availability.
Duration of the Golden Visa
One of the standout features of the UAE Golden Visa is its long duration. The visa can be valid for either five years or ten years, depending on the applicant’s category. After this period, the visa can be renewed as long as the applicant continues to meet all the conditions set forth by the authorities.
The Golden Visa is a game-changer for expatriates, providing long-term stability and security in the UAE. Unlike standard residence visas, which typically expire after a set period and require renewal, the Golden Visa offers greater flexibility and longer tenure.
Key Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
The UAE Golden Visa offers a host of benefits that make it a highly attractive option for expatriates. Some of the major advantages of this visa include:
- No Sponsor Requirement – One of the most appealing features of the Golden Visa is that it does not require the applicant to have a sponsor. This is a significant departure from the norm, as most residents in the UAE must have a local sponsor to live and work in the country.
- Extended Stay Outside the UAE – Holders of the Golden Visa can stay outside the UAE for extended periods, unlike standard residence visa holders who must return to the country at least once every six months to keep their residency valid. Golden Visa holders can be away for more than six months without losing their visa status.
- Sponsorship of Family Members – Golden Visa holders can sponsor their family members, including children of any age, regardless of their marital status or age. This benefit also extends to sponsoring an unlimited number of domestic workers.
- Family Security – In the unfortunate event of the primary Golden Visa holder passing away, the family members are permitted to stay in the UAE for the entire duration of their visa validity, ensuring stability for their dependents.
- Freedom of Movement – Golden Visa holders enjoy greater freedom in terms of travel, work, and investment opportunities in the UAE.
- Increased Access to Government Services – Golden Visa holders can avail themselves of various government services without the need for additional paperwork or waiting times.
Nomination Process for the UAE Golden Visa
If you meet the eligibility criteria and wish to apply for the UAE Golden Visa, you must follow a streamlined process for nomination. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) is responsible for processing Golden Visa applications. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to submit your nomination:
Step 1: Visit the ICP Smart Services Website
- Go to the official ICP Smart Services website to begin the application process.
Step 2: Choose Golden Services
- On the homepage, select the “Golden Services” option. You will then be presented with two options inside UAE or outside UAE. If you are already residing in the UAE, select “Inside UAE.”
Step 3: Submit the Nomination Request
- Click on “Nomination Request” on the next page to proceed with your application.
Step 4: Choose the Service Card
- You will be given three options: “Service Card,” “Start Service,” and “Application Tracking.” Choose Service Card to view the detailed requirements for your application.
Step 5: Review Requirements
- Carefully review the information on the Service Card page, which includes details about the required documents, terms and conditions, service fees, and procedures.
Step 6: Start the Application
- Once all documents are gathered, click Start Service to proceed with the application form.
Step 7: Fill in the Application Form
- Complete the application form by selecting the Golden Visa Category and entering details such as your Unified Number, Nationality, Passport Number, Gender, Date of Birth, and Contact Details.
Step 8: Submit Documents
- Upload all required documents as attachments. This may include your passport copy, visa, and other supporting documents specific to your visa category.
Step 9: Payment and Submission
- Review your application and pay the required fees. After completing the form and payment, submit your application for processing.
Step 10: Await Approval
- If your nomination is approved, you will be notified to collect your Golden Visa.
Recommendation Requirement for Certain Categories
For specific applicants, such as artists, innovators, and athletes, the UAE requires a recommendation or approval from relevant authorities. These include:
- Artists and Cultural Figures – Must obtain approval from governmental cultural authorities in the UAE.
- Innovators and Inventors – Those with patents or valuable inventions must be approved by the Ministry of Economy or relevant local authorities.
- Athletes – Must have a recommendation from the General Authority of Sports or local sports councils.
- Digital Technology Experts – Those in the field of artificial intelligence must get approval from the UAE Council for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transactions.
UAE Golden Visa Fees
When applying for the UAE Golden Visa, the following fees are applicable:
- E-services Fee: Dh28
- ICP Fee: Dh22
- Smart Services Fee: Dh100
Ensure that you are prepared to pay these fees at the time of submission to avoid delays in your application process.
What Happens if Your Application is Rejected?
The UAE Golden Visa application may be rejected for several reasons, including incomplete or incorrect information. If the required data is not submitted within 30 days or if the application is returned three times due to missing documents or incomplete forms, it will be automatically rejected.
FAQs About UAE Golden Visa Nomination
What are the eligibility criteria for the UAE Golden Visa?
Ans: The eligibility criteria for the UAE Golden Visa vary depending on your category. Generally, it is available to investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, exceptional students, and individuals contributing to the UAE’s development in key sectors.
How long is the UAE Golden Visa valid?
Ans: The UAE Golden Visa can be valid for either five years or ten years, depending on the applicant’s category. It is renewable at the end of the tenure.
Can I sponsor my family with the UAE Golden Visa?
Ans: Yes, Golden Visa holders can sponsor their family members, including children of any age. They can also sponsor an unlimited number of domestic workers.
Conclusion
The UAE Golden Visa is a fantastic opportunity for expatriates to secure long-term residency in the UAE. Whether you are an entrepreneur, scientist, artist, or investor, the UAE Golden Visa provides significant benefits, including family sponsorship, greater freedom of movement, and the possibility of long-term residency without a sponsor. By following the correct nomination process and meeting the eligibility criteria, you can unlock the potential of living and working in one of the most dynamic and thriving countries in the world.








