UAE Golden Visa without sponsor: 8-step application guide for investors

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has a detailed eight-step process for securing the UAE’s 10-year Golden Residency visa, specifically tailored for investors and business owners. The update, published on the ICP’s official platform, provides a streamlined and sponsor-free route for eligible individuals seeking long-term residency in the country.

Long-term residency without a sponsor

This visa bundle grants a decade-long residency to qualified investors without the need for a local sponsor. Applicants must either establish or invest in UAE-based businesses or deposit capital in designated investment funds. The initiative supports the UAE’s vision of attracting global capital and fostering economic growth by providing long-term security to serious investors.


Who can apply?

Applicants must meet at least one of the following investment conditions:

• Maintain a deposit of AED 2 million or more in an investment fund licensed within the UAE.
• Establish a business or hold a partnership in a company with a capital investment of AED 2 million or more.
• Own a company that pays AED 250,000 or more annually in federal taxes.
• Be a partner in a business contributing at least AED 250,000 annually in federal taxes.

In addition to investment-related requirements, applicants must retain their investment for a minimum of two years from the date of visa issuance. A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is also required.

Step-by-step Golden Visa application process

The ICP has outlined the following eight steps to obtain the Golden Visa under the investor category:

1. Eligibility assessment:

Applicants begin by answering a series of questions through an online tool designed to evaluate their eligibility for the Golden Visa. This initial screening helps match the applicant with the appropriate visa pathway.

2. Submitting the application:

Once deemed eligible, applicants can proceed to file their application. Notifications are sent at each stage, guiding them through the process in real time.

3. Visa approval notification:

Following review, successful applicants receive an approval update, allowing them to move forward with formal procedures.

4. Cancelling existing residency (if applicable):

If the applicant currently holds an active UAE residency, it must be cancelled after receiving initial Golden Visa approval. This step is mandatory before continuing the visa transition.

5. Changing visa status:

The ICP handles the change of visa status automatically. If there are any fines linked to the previous visa, a payment link will be issued before proceeding. Once cleared, the stamped visa is shared, enabling the applicant to proceed to the next stage.

6. Medical test and health insurance:

Applicants aged 18 and above must undergo a medical examination and obtain a two-year health insurance policy. If the test is conducted at a Ministry of Health (MOH) facility and insurance is issued through Daman, the system will process ID and residency applications automatically. Otherwise, applicants must upload the documents manually.

7. Fingerprint capture (if required):

In cases where biometric data is not on file, the applicant will receive a link to schedule a fingerprinting appointment at any ICA center.

8. Emirates ID issuance:

In the final stage, applicants receive instructions to collect their Emirates ID card, completing the residency process.

Investor-friendly reforms

The process aligns with the UAE’s broader efforts to simplify immigration for high-value investors and entrepreneurs. The sponsor-free Golden Visa model offers a stable platform for those seeking long-term residency tied to meaningful economic contribution.

Applicants can begin their application journey by visiting the official portal or accessing authorized ICP service centers.