How to Get 10 Year Golden Visa in UAE: Dubai Property Buyers Can Get Residency in 2025

Dubai’s Golden Visa program has become a game-changer — particularly for international property buyers. The Dubai Golden Visa is a long term residency visa available to real estate investors, allowing them to live, work, and study in the UAE. If you’re considering buying a property in Dubai to qualify for a Golden Visa, this 2025 guide breaks it all down: eligibility thresholds, application process, benefits, top projects (including Sereno Residences by Svarn Development), and essential tips.

What Is Dubai’s Golden Visa—and Why Does It Matter?

The Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit (5- or 10-year) designed for talent and investors. As a residence permit, the Dubai Golden Visa allows qualified individuals to live and work in the UAE for an extended period of up to 10 years, with options for renewal. Unlike short-term visas, no local sponsor is needed and you can work, study, and live more freely in the UAE.

UAE residents benefit from the flexibility and security provided by the Golden Visa.

Eligibility Criteria for Real Estate Property Buyers

As of 2025, you can qualify for a Golden Visa through property investment:

2-year visa: Invest AED 750,000+

10-year Golden Visa: Invest AED 2 million+

Both off‑plan and completed freehold properties are accepted—provided they’re from developers like approved developers like Svarn Development and registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

Investing via mortgage also qualifies, as long as:

You’ve paid the required down payment

Funds and escrow are documented

Alternatively, investing in an investment fund is another pathway to Golden Visa eligibility.

Similar property investment and application processes are available in Abu Dhabi.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

Note: Obtaining an entry visa is the first step before submitting the official Golden Visa application.

1. Pick your property wisely
Choose a freehold project (e.g. Sereno Residences) worth AED 750K+ or AED 2M+ and learn about the 20/80 payment plan that can help simplify your investment.

2. Gather your documents

Passport copy

Title deed or MOU

Bank proof (if mortgaged)

NOC from bank (when applicable)

An approval letter or recommendation letter may be required for certain categories such as entrepreneurs, outstanding students, or pioneers of humanitarian work.

3. Apply online
Use the DLD or ICA portals to submit everything digitally.

4. Pay the fees
Expect AED 2,000–3,000 depending on visa duration.

5. Undergo medical examination & get Emirates ID
A medical examination is part of the process and is a mandatory UAE requirement.

6. Receive your visa
Processing usually takes 3–6 weeks.

Documents Required

Applying for the UAE Golden Visa involves preparing a comprehensive set of required documents to ensure your application is processed smoothly. For property investors, you’ll need a valid passport copy, proof of property ownership (such as a title deed or MOU), and a completed application form. If your investment is financed, include a bank statement and a no-objection certificate from your bank.

For those applying under the skilled professionals category, the UAE government requires an employment contract approved by the relevant authorities, a salary certificate issued by your employer confirming a minimum monthly salary (typically AED 30,000 or more), and recent bank statements reflecting this income. You’ll also need an attested bachelor’s degree or higher, a valid practicing license if your profession requires it, and an employment certificate.

Ensuring all required documents are accurate, up-to-date, and in line with the UAE Golden Visa eligibility criteria will help avoid delays. Double-check that your employment contract, salary certificate, and bank statement clearly demonstrate your monthly salary and professional status as required by the UAE government.

Processing Time

The processing time for a UAE Golden Visa typically ranges from three weeks to one month, depending on your visa category and the completeness of your application. Once you submit your documents, the federal authority for identity, citizenship, customs, and port security will review your application. The duration may vary based on the volume of applications and the specific requirements of your case.

Applicants can conveniently track the status of their golden visa application online through official UAE government portals. To ensure a smooth process, it’s advisable to submit your application well in advance and respond promptly to any requests from the federal authority for identity or port security. Staying proactive and organized will help you secure your UAE Golden Visa without unnecessary delays.

What You & Your Family Gain

5 or 10-year residency with renewal

Spouse and minor children included

Work or study freely—no sponsor needed

Better access to UAE banking & services

Zero income, property, or capital gains taxes—capital gains tax is generally not applicable for property sales in the UAE

Flexible exit strategy—you can sell the property later without losing the visa

Education and Healthcare Access

Golden Visa holders in the UAE enjoy access to some of the region’s best education and healthcare services. The UAE government has invested heavily in international schools and top-ranked universities, making it easy for families to find world-class educational opportunities for their children. As a Golden Visa holder, you can enroll your children in these institutions, ensuring a high standard of learning and global recognition.

Healthcare is another major benefit. The UAE boasts a modern, well-equipped healthcare system with advanced hospitals and clinics. Golden Visa holders are required to have health insurance, which guarantees access to quality medical care for themselves and their families. With comprehensive health insurance and the support of the UAE government, you can be confident in your family’s well-being while living in the Emirates.

Lifestyle Perks

The UAE Golden Visa unlocks a host of exclusive lifestyle perks for its holders. With a long-term residence visa, you can live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor, giving you greater independence and flexibility. Golden Visa holders can also sponsor family members, allowing spouses and children to enjoy the same residency benefits.

One of the standout advantages is the ability to stay outside the UAE for extended periods without jeopardizing your residency status—ideal for frequent travelers or global business executives. The UAE government has streamlined the renewal process, making it easy to maintain your status as a Golden Visa holder. Additional exclusive benefits include access to government services, simplified application and renewal procedures, and the peace of mind that comes with long-term stability in one of the world’s most dynamic countries. Whether you’re seeking career growth, family security, or a vibrant lifestyle, the UAE Golden Visa offers a compelling package of privileges.

Highlighted Projects

Sereno Residences, JVC by Svarn Development

Freehold 1 & 2 BR units

Value-driven 20/32/48 % payment plan until 2030

Ideal for off‑plan investors targeting AED 750K threshold

Sereno Residences incorporates features of a technical or future nature, making it especially attractive to forward-thinking investors.

Other Qualifying Projects

AED 2M+ villas on Palm Jumeirah, Emirates Hills, Business Bay. For a comparative analysis of renting vs buying apartments in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), see our cost comparison of 1-BHK and 2-BHK in JVC. If you want to maximize rental yield and turn your JVC apartment into a profit, check out these expert tips.

Prime Downtown and DIFC apartments

2025 Outlook: Why This Matters Now

Dubai offers one of the most accessible residency routes globally. Where other countries require business setups or huge capital, Dubai links property investment directly to residency. In addition to property investors, outstanding specialised talent and outstanding students are also eligible for the Golden Visa. Outstanding specialised talent includes individuals with exceptional skills or achievements in fields such as science, art, sports, or humanitarian work, while outstanding students with high academic records or notable achievements can also qualify for long-term residency.

For skilled professionals, it is essential that their position classified under MOHRE’s occupational classification scheme is at level 1 or 2, and their role classified accordingly, to meet the eligibility requirements. That makes it a smart financial and lifestyle move amid rising global mobility.

Tips for Smooth Investing

Choose trusted developers—Svarn, Emaar, DAMAC

Confirm eligibility via DLD listings

Take advantage of flexible payment plans

Be ready with all required documents

Tip: Ensure the applicant holds the necessary professional credentials and meets the minimum educational level required for your visa category.

Consult a property or immigration expert to avoid errors

Final Takeaway

In 2025, buying a property in Dubai worth AED 2 million or more not only gains you a high-growth asset—it also unlocks a 10-year Golden Visa. Even with AED 750K investments, you can secure 2-year residency that’s renewable.

For skilled professionals, it is important to note that you must provide a bachelor’s degree and, in most cases, an attested bachelor’s degree as part of your application.

Choose well, plan ahead, and you’ll enjoy both investment returns and long-term peace of mind.

FAQ

1. Can I get a Golden Visa in the UAE by buying property?

Yes, you can qualify for a UAE Golden Visa by investing AED 2 million or more in property. Both outstanding students and real estate investors are eligible for the Golden Visa. A 2-year renewable visa is also available for AED 750,000 investments.

2. What types of properties are eligible for the Golden Visa in Dubai?

Both off-plan and completed freehold properties qualify, provided they are purchased from an approved developer and registered with the Dubai Land Department (DLD).

3. Do I need to pay the full amount in cash to be eligible?

No. You can finance your purchase through a mortgage. However, you must meet a minimum equity threshold (often 50%) and provide documentation from your bank.

4. Can I get a Golden Visa for buying off-plan property in Dubai?

Yes. Off-plan properties from registered developers are eligible, but make sure the payment and title transfer terms meet DLD requirements.

5. How long does it take to process the UAE Golden Visa after property purchase?

It typically takes 3–6 weeks after submitting all documents and undergoing medical and ID procedures. An entry visa is required before your Golden Visa application is processed.

6. What are the benefits of getting a Golden Visa through property investment?

Golden Visa holders enjoy a residence permit valid for 5 or 10 years, sponsorship of family members, access to banking and business services, and no income or property taxes.

7. Can I sell my property after getting the Golden Visa?

Yes, but if your total property holdings fall below the eligibility threshold (e.g., AED 2 million), your visa status may be affected unless reinvested.

8. Can I rent out my property while holding a Golden Visa?

Absolutely. You retain full ownership and rental rights, and this does not impact your visa status.

9. Does the Golden Visa include family members?

Yes, your spouse and children (under 18 or dependent) can be included in the same visa application.

10. Is the Golden Visa automatically renewed?

No. It must be renewed upon expiration, but renewal is typically straightforward if you still meet eligibility criteria.