Updated Residency Options in 2025

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1. Golden Visa (10-Year Residency)

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The UAE Golden Visa remains the premier choice for investors seeking long-term residency and wide-ranging benefits.

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Eligibility Requirements:

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• Real estate investment of at least AED 2 million (~$545,000).
• For properties in premium areas (e.g., Dubai Hills, Palm Jumeirah), the minimum investment increases to AED 5 million.
• Health insurance with minimum coverage of AED 500,000.
• Proof of legitimate income (six months of bank statements).

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Key Benefits:

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• 10-year renewable residency
• Inclusion of spouse, children, and parents under one application
• Visa-free travel to over 175 countries

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2. Standard Investor Visa (3-Year Residency)

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Designed for those seeking a cost-effective route to UAE residency.

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Eligibility Requirements:

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• Property investment starting from AED 750,000 (~$204,000) in freehold zones
• Minimum verifiable income of AED 15,000 per month (new from 2025)

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Limitations:

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• Only spouse and children may be included — parents are not eligible under this visa type

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Application Process: Step-by-Step

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Step 1: Choose a Qualified Property

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• Only officially approved real estate projects are accepted
• Office units below AED 1 million are disqualified
• Top locations for Golden Visa investments:
  • Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa vicinity)
  • Palm Jumeirah
  • Dubai Marina
  • Sobha Hartland (with special conditions)

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Step 2: Prepare Required Documentation

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• Updated 2025 visa application form
• Apostilled police clearance from every country lived in for over 6 months
• Six months of bank statements
• Valid medical insurance policy

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Step 3: Submit and Track Application

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• Standard processing: 28 days
• Fast-track option: 7 working days (AED 2,500 fee)
• As of 2025, all transactions must be completed via the GDRFA portal — cash is no longer accepted

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Common Mistakes to Avoid in 2025

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• Purchasing property on installment without prior GDRFA approval → rejection
• Failing to pay new fees (e.g., AED 1,200 for biometrics)
• Choosing non-accredited real estate outside of approved freehold zones
• Delayed payments — even a 3-day delay can lead to automatic rejection
• Submitting a health insurance policy with insufficient coverage (must be AED 500,000 minimum)

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In 2025, the UAE offers two main residency visa options through investment, each with distinct requirements and benefits:

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The Golden Visa requires a minimum real estate investment of AED 2 million and grants a 10-year residency. This visa allows for the inclusion of the investor’s entire immediate family, including spouse, children, and parents.

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The Standard Visa, on the other hand, requires a lower investment threshold of AED 750,000 and provides a 3-year residency. Family inclusion under this visa is more limited, covering only the spouse and children of the primary applicant.

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