What Is the Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency programme introduced in 2019 and significantly expanded in 2022. It grants 5 or 10-year renewable residency to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and their immediate families. For property investors, the 10-year visa requires a minimum property value of AED 2,000,000 (approximately USD 544,000).
Eligibility Through Property
To qualify via property investment: the property must be completed (off-plan under construction does not qualify unless the developer holds the title deed). The purchase price must be at least AED 2M with a maximum mortgage of 50% of the property value. The visa is available for properties in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other UAE emirates.
The Process
Step 1: Purchase the property and obtain the DLD title deed. Step 2: Obtain a property valuation certificate from DLD confirming value above AED 2M. Step 3: Apply for the residency visa through the ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship). Step 4: Complete Emirates ID registration and medical fitness test. Total timeline: 4–8 weeks from title deed issuance.
Common Mistakes
The most common error is purchasing off-plan and expecting immediate visa eligibility. Only completed, titled properties qualify. Another frequent issue is joint ownership — if a property is co-owned, both owners must meet the AED 2M threshold individually based on their ownership share. Viventia's team guides clients through every step of this process.