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Which UAE residence visa can I get?

Answer a few questions about your job, property, salary and savings. You will see which UAE residence visas you may qualify for, how long each lasts and the main conditions.

  • Golden, Green, property, retirement and job seeker visas
  • How long each visa lasts
  • The main conditions and the official websites
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Visas you may qualify for

All the main UAE residence visas

Visa · Main conditionLength
Employment visa
Sponsored by your employer. Most people living in the UAE are on this visa.
2 years
Property investor visa
Ready property worth at least AED 750,000 (Dubai). Renewable while you own it.
2 years
Golden Visa: property
Property worth at least AED 2 million (title deed value). Ready or off-plan, mortgaged property allowed with a bank NOC.
10 years
Golden Visa: skilled professional
Basic salary of at least AED 30,000 a month, an attested degree and an eligible job.
10 years
Golden Visa: investor
At least AED 2 million in a UAE bank deposit, investment fund or company.
10 years
Green Visa: skilled employee
Self-sponsored. Salary of at least AED 15,000 a month, a bachelor’s degree and a skilled job (MOHRE level 1 to 3).
5 years
Green Visa: freelancer
Self-sponsored. A freelance permit, a degree or diploma, and about AED 360,000 income over the last 2 years.
5 years
Green Visa: investor or partner
At least AED 1 million invested in a UAE company.
5 years
Retirement visa
Age 55 or over, with one of: ready property worth AED 1 million, savings of AED 1 million, or a monthly income of about AED 15,000 to 20,000.
5 years
Job Seeker visa
A visit visa to look for work. For graduates and skilled people (MOHRE level 1 to 3). No sponsor needed.
60 to 120 days

Good to know

Questions people ask

Is this an official decision?

No. It is a quick guide based on the published conditions. The final decision is made by ICP or GDRFA when you apply, and some routes need extra documents or endorsements.

Which visa does buying property give me?

In Dubai, ready property from about AED 750,000 can give a 2-year investor visa, and property worth AED 2 million or more can give the 10-year Golden Visa.

Can I work on a Golden or Green Visa?

Yes. These visas are self-sponsored, so you can work for an employer or for yourself, as long as you meet the work permit rules.

Official sources

A guide only, not legal advice. Visa rules and thresholds change; check the official ICP, GDRFA and Dubai Land Department websites before applying. Last checked: November 2026.