The Dubai Golden Visa is a long-term residency program launched by the UAE government to attract investors, skilled professionals, scientists, entrepreneurs, and outstanding students. Introduced in 2019, the visa allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor. The visa offers ten-year or five-year options depending on the eligibility category.
This article explains the costs involved in obtaining the Golden Visa in Dubai. It includes detailed fee breakdowns, variations by category, and additional charges related to application and administration.
Categories Eligible for Dubai Golden Visa
The Golden Visa in Dubai is open to a range of individuals. The main categories include:
- Investors in real estate or business
- Entrepreneurs
- Skilled professionals
- Scientists and researchers
- Outstanding students and graduates
- Humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes
The cost varies depending on the applicant’s category, visa duration, and where the application is submitted (from inside or outside the UAE).
Golden Visa Cost for Real Estate Investors
Real estate investors are one of the primary beneficiaries of the Dubai Golden Visa. To qualify, individuals must own property worth at least AED 2 million (approximately USD 545,000).
Typical costs for real estate investors include:
- Entry permit (if applying from outside UAE): AED 1,150 – AED 1,200
- Medical examination: AED 700 – AED 1,000
- Emirates ID application (10 years): AED 1,070 – AED 1,200
- Visa issuance and stamping fee: AED 2,000 – AED 2,500
Total estimated cost: AED 5,000 – AED 6,000 (approx. USD 1,370 – USD 1,650)
Golden Visa Cost for Skilled Professionals
Professionals in medicine, science, engineering, education, IT, and other strategic sectors can apply if they meet the salary and qualification requirements. The minimum monthly salary is AED 30,000, and a valid employment contract is required.
Estimated costs for skilled professionals:
- Visa application (10 years): AED 2,800 – AED 3,800
- Medical exam: AED 700 – AED 1,000
- Emirates ID (10 years): AED 1,070 – AED 1,200
Total estimated cost: AED 4,500 – AED 6,000
Golden Visa Cost for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs must own or be a partner in a UAE-based startup registered as a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) generating annual revenue of AED 1 million or more. Alternatively, they can be founders of a previously sold successful startup.
Typical costs include:
- Application fee: AED 2,800 – AED 3,800
- Medical test: AED 700 – AED 1,000
- Emirates ID: AED 1,070 – AED 1,200
Total cost: Around AED 4,500 – AED 6,000
Golden Visa Cost for Students and Researchers
Top-performing students (Grade 95%+ or GPA 3.75+ from UAE or international universities) and researchers affiliated with accredited institutions are eligible.
Costs for students and researchers:
- Application processing: AED 2,800 – AED 3,800
- Medical test: AED 700 – AED 1,000
- Emirates ID: AED 1,070 – AED 1,200
Total cost: AED 4,500 – AED 6,000
Visa Processing Costs Inside vs. Outside the UAE
Applicants inside the UAE typically pay higher fees due to status adjustment charges. In contrast, those applying from abroad may face entry permit costs and delays due to documentation requirements.
Inside UAE costs: AED 2,800 – AED 3,800
Outside UAE costs: AED 3,300 – AED 4,000 (including entry permit)
Additional Charges and Optional Services
- Amer Center service fees: AED 200 – AED 500 depending on complexity
- Courier service: AED 20 – AED 50
- VIP medical testing (same-day results): AED 1,500+
Applicants may also opt for fast-track processing for quicker approval, adding AED 500 – AED 1,000 to the total.
Cost of Family Sponsorship Under Golden Visa
The Golden Visa allows holders to sponsor their spouse, children (regardless of age), and domestic workers. Each family member requires a separate visa.
- Dependent visa fees per person: AED 2,500 – AED 4,000
- Medical and Emirates ID per dependent: AED 1,500 – AED 2,000
Estimated cost per family member: AED 4,000 – AED 6,000
Refund and Reapplication Policies
If your application is rejected, a partial refund may be possible depending on the application stage. However, processing fees are usually non-refundable.
Corrections or updates (such as a new passport) can be made for a fee of AED 200 – AED 500 depending on the case.
Renewal Costs of the Golden Visa
The Dubai Golden Visa is renewable after 10 years (or 5 years, depending on the category). Renewal costs are similar to the original application:
- Visa renewal fee: AED 2,000 – AED 3,000
- Medical exam and Emirates ID: AED 1,800 – AED 2,500
Total renewal cost: AED 3,800 – AED 5,500
Why the Golden Visa Costs Are Worth It
Though not cheap, the Dubai Golden Visa offers unmatched stability, freedom, and access to one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Benefits include:
- 10-year renewable residency
- No need for a national sponsor
- Ability to sponsor family members
- Access to UAE’s health, education, and business systems
- Multiple-entry and exit freedom
How to Apply for the Dubai Golden Visa
Required documents include:
- Valid passport
- UAE medical insurance
- Proof of eligibility (degree, property deed, employment letter, etc.)
- Photograph with white background
Conclusion: Budgeting for Dubai’s Golden Visa
The total cost of Dubai’s Golden Visa ranges between AED 4,500 and AED 6,000 for individuals, and higher for families or those with VIP service needs. While the upfront costs are significant, the long-term benefits of living and investing in Dubai make it a strong value proposition.
Always consult with official UAE immigration authorities or authorized visa centers to get the most updated fees and avoid scams.
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