The United Arab Emirates has introduced groundbreaking updates to its Golden Visa system — and the latest wave of interest centers around the UAE Golden Visa Lifetime Residency. With this long-term residency opportunity, professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent from across the globe can now consider the UAE not just a temporary destination but a long-term home.
In this detailed guide, Desert Feed brings you everything you need to know about the UAE Golden Visa Lifetime Residency in 2025: eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, cost, and the latest updates.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa that allows foreign talent to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a national sponsor. Launched in 2019, the program was initially designed to attract investors, scientists, doctors, and entrepreneurs.
In 2025, the visa system has been further enhanced, including lifetime residency options for qualifying applicants.
What is the “Lifetime Residency” Variant?
The “lifetime residency” model is an extension of the Golden Visa system. While the traditional Golden Visa provides 5 or 10 years of renewable residency, the lifetime residency allows indefinite stay under specific categories.
This means:
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No renewal hassles
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Lifetime residency status in UAE
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Stability for families and business owners
The initiative is part of the UAE’s strategy to attract long-term talent and global business investment, and to establish the country as a permanent home for skilled individuals and investors.
Who is Eligible for UAE Golden Visa Lifetime Residency?
As of 2025, the following individuals are eligible:
1. Investors
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Real estate investment of AED 2 million or more
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Business investors with government-recognized impact
2. Entrepreneurs
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Owners of UAE-registered start-ups with annual revenues above AED 1 million
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Recognized by certified business incubators
3. Scientists & Researchers
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PhD holders in key fields (AI, medicine, engineering)
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Recommendations from Emirates Council of Scientists
4. Exceptional Talents
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Creative professionals in arts, culture, or digital media
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Tech innovators and AI developers
5. Outstanding Students & Graduates
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Top performers from UAE universities or top 100 global institutions
6. Doctors & Medical Professionals
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Licensed practitioners with UAE healthcare approval
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Special focus on critical specializations
7. Skilled Workers
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Monthly salary of AED 30,000 or above
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Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required
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Employment contract in a high-demand UAE sector
How to Apply for UAE Golden Visa Lifetime Residency (2025 Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Eligibility Check
Use the UAE ICP portal or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website.
Step 2: Gather Documents
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Valid passport
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Emirates ID (if resident)
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Proof of qualification (degree, license, awards)
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Business license (if applicable)
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Financial documents or salary proof
Step 3: Apply Online
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Visit: https://icp.gov.ae
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Choose “Golden Visa” option
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Fill in the application and upload documents
Step 4: Pay the Fees
Fees range from AED 2,800 to AED 3,800, depending on the category.
Step 5: Application Review
Processing time: 7–14 business days
Step 6: Visa Issuance
Once approved, the Golden Visa (including lifetime variant) is stamped or digitally issued.
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa Lifetime Residency
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✔️ No need for national sponsor
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✔️ 100% business ownership
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✔️ Long-term stability for families
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✔️ Ability to sponsor spouse, children, and domestic workers
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✔️ Residency not affected by staying outside UAE for more than 6 months
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✔️ Priority in government services
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✔️ Education & health discounts (in select emirates)
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✔️ Multiple entry visa during processing
How Much Does It Cost?
| Category | Approximate Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| Skilled Workers | 2,800 – 3,200 |
| Investors/Property | 3,000 – 3,800 |
| Entrepreneurs | 3,500+ (with business setup) |
| Students | 2,800+ |
| Doctors/Scientists | 2,800 – 3,500 |
Note: Fees may vary slightly by emirate (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah).
Golden Visa for Indians, Pakistanis & Expats in 2025
The UAE Golden Visa Lifetime Residency is open to all nationalities, including:
Indians:
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Investors with property in Dubai or Abu Dhabi
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High-salaried professionals (Tech, Medical, Engineering)
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Top Indian university graduates now living in UAE
Pakistanis:
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Pakistani entrepreneurs setting up business in UAE
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Skilled professionals with experience in Gulf countries
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Families seeking long-term settlement options
Other Expats:
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Freelancers in digital services
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Remote workers under virtual work residency
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European retirees opting for long-term residency
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I apply for a Golden Visa if I’m on a visit visa?
A: Yes, you can apply — once your eligibility is confirmed, you’ll get a multiple-entry permit to finalize residency.
Q: Is the lifetime residency renewable?
A: While labeled “lifetime,” the visa is subject to UAE laws and updates, but it generally does not require frequent renewal.
Q: Does owning property guarantee lifetime residency?
A: Only if the property value is AED 2 million or above, and the purchase is not mortgage-based.
🗣 Final Words
The UAE Golden Visa Lifetime Residency is not just a document — it’s an invitation to be part of one of the world’s most dynamic countries. Whether you’re a doctor, investor, tech entrepreneur, or a top student — the UAE offers unmatched opportunities for long-term living, growth, and success.
Desert Feed will continue to bring you all the latest updates, processes, and real-time changes about visas, laws, and life in the UAE.
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