The UAE’s 10-year Golden Visa has sparked a wave of long-term residency applications, offering stability and a clear future for professionals, investors, and skilled workers. Experts call it a “Golden Visa boom,” as it reshapes career and investment decisions for expatriates who now see the UAE as a permanent home.
Multinational companies are increasingly supporting eligible employees in obtaining the Golden Visa, eliminating the hassle of frequent visa renewals. Haider Hussain, a partner at immigration firm Fragomen, notes a significant mindset shift: “Previously, residents would earn in the UAE but invest back home. Now, with long-term residency, they are considering property ownership and reinvesting in the local economy.”
Clarifying Eligibility and Salary Requirements
The UAE has refined Golden Visa eligibility criteria, particularly salary requirements. As of August 2024, applicants must earn a minimum gross salary of Dh30,000 per month, inclusive of allowances, reversing an earlier rule that only considered basic salary.
To qualify, applicants must submit:
A salary confirmation letter from their employer
Bank statements for three to six months proving the salary is credited consistently
A recognized job title under the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer
What Allowances Count Toward the Salary Requirement?
Fixed monthly allowances, such as housing and transport, are considered part of the salary. However, lump-sum reimbursements for education or annual benefits do not count unless included as a fixed monthly component in pay statements.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejections
Despite meeting salary requirements, some applications face rejection due to:
Mismatched job titles that are not recognized under UAE employment classifications
Incomplete or missing NOCs from employers
Insufficient proof of salary consistency in bank statements
Exceptions and Special Nominations
Exceptions to the salary rule are rare, unless an applicant is nominated by a UAE government authority under special categories.
Additionally, Dubai applicants must have at least two years of experience with the same employer under the local entity sponsoring the visa.
The Golden Visa Effect on Corporate Strategy
The surge in Golden Visas is not just benefiting individuals—it is also transforming corporate policies. With fewer visa renewals, companies see increased employee retention and a more stable workforce. This shift is also driving a broader regional trend, with countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain launching similar premium residency programs.
As the UAE continues to refine its immigration policies, the Golden Visa remains a game-changer—encouraging professionals to invest, settle, and contribute to the nation’s long-term economic growth.