The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program designed to attract skilled professionals, investors, and talented individuals to the United Arab Emirates.
For those exploring Golden Visa requirements for salaried employees, this program offers a unique pathway to secure 10-year renewable residency without the need for traditional employer sponsorship.
This special visa category provides exceptional flexibility, including self-sponsorship, freedom to change jobs without complications, and the ability to sponsor your spouse, children, parents, and domestic workers under your visa.
General Eligibility for Salaried Employees
- Minimum salary: You must earn at least AED 30,000 per month (total gross salary including all allowances).
- Educational qualification: You must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- Occupation level: Your job must fall under Level 1 or Level 2 skilled occupations as classified by MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation).
- Employment Contract: You must have a valid UAE employment contract that confirms your position and salary.
Categories of Skilled Professionals Eligible for Golden Visa
| Category | Examples of Professions |
|---|---|
| Healthcare Professionals | Doctors, Nurses, Dentists, Pharmacists, Medical Technicians |
| Engineers | Civil Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Computer Engineers |
| Scientists and Researchers | Scientific Researchers, Lab Technicians, Innovators in Natural and Applied Sciences |
| IT Professionals | Software Developers, Cybersecurity Experts, Data Scientists, IT Systems Analysts |
| Education and Academic Experts | Professors, University Lecturers, Educational Consultants, School Principals |
| Legal and Judicial Professionals | Judges, Lawyers, Legal Advisors, Prosecutors |
Note: The UAE Golden Visa is also available for investors, entrepreneurs, and other categories, each with its own specific requirements and pathways.
Document Checklist for Golden Visa: Salaried Employees
- Emirates ID & Passport: Clear copies with a validity of 6 months or more.
- Attested Degree: Bachelor’s or higher, attested by the UAE Ministry of Education.
- Salary Certificate: Confirms AED 30,000+ monthly salary (gross, incl. allowances).
- MOHRE-verified Contract: Employment contract approved by MOHRE.
- Eligible Job Title: Must match the MOHRE Level 1 or 2 skilled occupation list.
- Good Conduct Certificate: Police clearance from UAE and the home country.
- Health Insurance: Required before visa issuance for you and your dependents.
Golden Visa Application Guide for Employees
Step 1: Register on the ICA Portal
Create an account and fill out the Golden Visa application form online.
Step 2: Get Employer Support
Your employer provides a salary certificate and an MOHRE-verified employment contract.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Upload your Emirates ID, passport, attested degree, and other supporting documents.
Step 4: Application Review & Approval
ICA verifies your eligibility, conducts background checks, and notifies you once approved.
Timeframe for Approval:
Processing will take 15–60 days, with up to 90 days required for complex cases.
Initial review: 2–3 weeks.
Background check: 2–4 weeks.
Get approved via the ICA portal, then proceed with the Medical and Emirates ID.
Ready to apply for your UAE Golden Visa as a salaried employee? Our immigration experts specialize in Golden Visa applications for professionals and will guide you through the entire eligibility assessment and application process. Get your personalized Golden Visa consultation today.
Golden Visa Fees for Salaried Employees
| Item | Cost (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application | 2,800 – 3,500 | Based on nationality & processing type |
| Medical Exam | 300 – 500 | Per person |
| Document Attestation | 150 – 300 | Per certificate |
| Emirates ID | 270 | Standard renewal fee |
| Typing Services | 100 – 200 | Optional, for form assistance |
| Total (approx.) | 5,000 – 10,000+ | Includes costs for family if applicable |
Benefits of the Golden Visa
- Long-term security in the UAE: The 10-year Golden Visa offers complete residential stability, eliminating the need to worry about job changes or visa renewals every 2-3 years.
- No requirement for a sponsor or employer: You become completely independent from employer sponsorship and can change jobs freely without visa complications or cancellation procedures.
- Sponsorship of family members and domestic workers: You can sponsor your spouse, children, parents, and even hire domestic help under your visa without employer approval.
- Travel flexibility and business ownership privileges: Enjoy unlimited travel in and out of the UAE, plus the ability to own 100% of certain business activities and property investments.
Conclusion
The UAE Golden Visa presents skilled professionals with an exceptional opportunity to establish long-term careers and secure their families’ futures in one of the world’s most vibrant economies.
With precise eligibility requirements and substantial benefits like 10-year residency and sponsor independence, this program opens doors to unlimited possibilities. If you meet the salary and qualification criteria, don’t wait to start your application process.
Thinking about applying for the UAE Golden Visa? As a salaried employee, you may qualify under multiple categories. Our Golden Visa specialists will evaluate your credentials, recommend the best application route, and ensure you meet all requirements before submission. Schedule your expert consultation now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the New Rule for the Golden Visa?
The latest updates for 2024-2025 include expanded categories for skilled professionals, reduced minimum salary requirements for specific occupations, and streamlined online application processes through the ICA portal.
What Are the Disadvantages of a Golden Visa in The UAE?
Key drawbacks include high application fees (AED 5,000-8,000 in total), lengthy processing times (30-90 days), strict salary maintenance requirements, and the potential for visa cancellation if the conditions aren’t met.
What Is the Minimum Amount for the Golden Visa?
The minimum monthly salary requirement is AED 30,000 for skilled professionals, with total application costs ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 8,000, including fees and medical tests.
