Golden Visa (Entrepreneur Category)
United Arab Emirates
Last updated: December 19, 2025
10 years (renewable)
$762-$1,034
1-2 months
High
About this Visa
The UAE Golden Visa (Entrepreneur category) is a long-term residence permit for startup founders and business owners. It is designed for people building innovative companies in fields like technology, future sciences, or sustainability. This visa lets you live, work, and own a business in the UAE for 10 years without needing a local sponsor. You can sponsor your family and key employees to join you. It also allows you to stay outside the UAE for more than 6 months without losing your visa. It is different from a regular business visa because it targets "high-potential" startups rather than standard shops or trading companies. If you own a regular small business, you might need the "Green Visa" instead.
Key Benefits
- Live in the UAE for 10 years with renewable residency
- Sponsor spouse and children of any age
- Sponsor up to 3 key employees (like co-founders)
- Own 100% of your business without a local partner
- Stay outside the UAE for over 6 months without visa expiring
- No employer sponsorship required
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have an innovative technical or future-focused project
- Business must be accredited by an official UAE incubator or authority
- Must be the owner or partner in the startup
- Must pass a medical fitness test
- Must pass a security background check
Financial Requirement
Must have a technical/future project valued at AED 500,000 (~$136,000) OR own a company generating AED 1 million (~$272,000) annual revenue.
Documents
- Nomination LetterOfficial approval letter from a UAE business incubator or authority
- Trade LicenseValid company license in the UAE
- Auditor ReportProof of project value (if using project route)
- Bank StatementsProof of company revenue (if using revenue route)
- Health InsuranceProof of medical insurance coverage
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.