Government Fee Structure (2025)
The UAE Golden Visa programme grants 10-year renewable residency without the need for a national sponsor. Fees vary by application channel (ICP, GDRFA, or free zone authority) and eligibility category.
| Fee Component | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | 1,150 |
| Residency Visa Issuance | 1,100 |
| Emirates ID (10-year) | 570 |
| Medical Fitness Test | 320 |
| Visa Stamping | 520 |
| Service/Typing Charges | 200-350 |
| Estimated Total (Primary Applicant) | 3,860-4,010 |
Dependent Costs
| Dependent Type | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Spouse | 3,500-3,800 |
| Child (under 18) | 2,800-3,200 |
| Child (18-25, studying) | 3,200-3,600 |
| Parent | 3,500-3,800 |
A family of four (applicant, spouse, two children) can expect total government fees of approximately AED 13,000-14,600.
Eligibility Categories and Investment Thresholds
| Category | Minimum Requirement | Visa Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Real Estate Investor | AED 2 million property value | 10 years |
| Business Investor | AED 2 million investment/deposits | 10 years |
| Entrepreneur | Approved startup or AED 500,000 capital | 10 years |
| Skilled Professional | Valid employment + specialised degree | 10 years |
| Scientist/Researcher | Accredited by Emirates Scientists Council | 10 years |
| Outstanding Student | 3.8+ GPA from top university | 5 years |
| Humanitarian Pioneer | Distinguished community contribution | 10 years |
Real Estate Route: Total Cost Analysis
The property investment pathway requires ownership of property valued at AED 2 million or above. The total outlay includes property acquisition costs (4% DLD transfer fee plus agent commission of 2%), mortgage arrangement fees if applicable, and Golden Visa processing fees.
| Cost Component | Estimated Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Minimum Property Value | 2,000,000 |
| DLD Transfer Fee (4%) | 80,000 |
| Agent Commission (2%) | 40,000 |
| Golden Visa Fees (family of 4) | 14,000 |
| Total Minimum Outlay | 2,134,000 |
Processing Timeline
Standard processing takes 15-30 business days from complete application submission. Applications through free zone authorities may take longer due to additional coordination with GDRFA. Expedited processing is available in some jurisdictions for an additional fee.
Key Considerations
The Golden Visa does not confer tax residency by default. Holders must establish a Tax Domicile Certificate through the Federal Tax Authority, which requires demonstrating physical presence of at least 183 days or primary accommodation and financial interests in the UAE. The visa permits unlimited entry and exit without minimum stay requirements for visa validity, but tax residency demands active management.