Easy entry and attractive residency options in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) maintains one of the most open and investor-friendly visa systems in the region. Citizens from many countries, including the EU, UK, Canada and most OECD states, can enter without a pre-arranged visa and later apply for long-term residency (resident visa) if they wish to stay longer, invest in property, or open a bank account.
Most UAE banks open accounts only for holders of an Emirates ID, the national identification card issued after a residency visa is granted. This overview is intended for individuals not employed by a UAE-based company. If you are employed locally, your employer will sponsor your residence visa under the standard employment category.
Visa Type 1: Tourist Entry (Visa on Arrival)
Visa on Arrival
- Citizens of many countries — including the EU, UK, Canada, and others — are eligible for visa-on-arrival for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
- No advance application is required.
- Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- You may enter and leave the UAE multiple times within that 180-day period, staying a total of 90 days.
For frequent travelers or investors visiting the country regularly, the 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa allows stays of up to 90 days per visit (extendable once).
Applications are submitted online via the GDRFA Dubai or federal ICP platforms.
Visa Type 2: Residency Through Property Ownership
Foreign investors who purchase real estate in the UAE can apply for one of several property-linked residence visa categories. These visas allow long-term stay, access to banking, utility services, and family sponsorship. Here is a breakdown of property-linked residency visas offered by the UAE.
A) 2-Year Property Owner Visa
- Minimum property value: AED 750,000 (approx. USD 205,000).
- Applicable in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- Property must be completed (ready) and registered in the applicant’s name.
- Mortgaged properties qualify if at least 50% of the property value (and minimum AED 750,000) has been paid, supported by a bank NOC letter.
- The visa holder can sponsor spouse, children, and parents.
- Valid for 2 years, renewable.
B) 10-Year Golden Visa (Real Estate Investor)
- Minimum property value: AED 2,000,000 (approx. USD 545,000).
- Available in all emirates.
- Can be based on one or multiple properties.
- Mortgaged properties qualify if at least 50% of the total value has been paid.
- Off-plan properties qualify when at least 50% of the project is completed and sufficient payment is made.
- Includes spouse, children, and parents under sponsorship.
- Valid for 10 years, renewable.
C) 5-Year Golden Visa for Retirees (55+)
- Minimum property value: AED 1,000,000 (approx. USD 270,000).
- Currently available in Dubai (other emirates may apply different age or value criteria).
- May include one or more properties.
- For mortgaged properties, at least 50% of the property value and a minimum of AED 1 million must be paid.
- The visa covers spouse, children, and parents.
- Valid for 5 years, renewable.
Required Documents:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Title Deed or Sales Purchase Agreement (SPA) for off-plan properties
- Passport-size photo
- Health insurance from a UAE-accredited provider
- Copy of current entry stamp or residence visa
- Bank statement or mortgage payment certificate (if applicable)
- UAE police clearance certificate
Typical Fees (Approximate)
- AED 10,000 – Main visa for the property owner
- AED 7,000 – 5-year retiree visa
- AED 6,000–9,000 – Family members (depending on age and relationship)
Fees are paid each time the visa is issued or renewed — typically every 2, 5, or 10 years depending on the visa category.
Visa Type 3: Residency Through Business Setup or Freelancer License
Another common path to UAE residency is setting up your own company or obtaining a Freelancer License, the UAE equivalent of a sole-trader or self-employed business license.
The UAE offers a broad range of Free Zones, where foreigners can own 100% of their business without a local partner. Alternatively, a company can be registered in the Mainland (under the jurisdiction of an emirate’s Department of Economic Development), which allows trading across the UAE but may have slightly different costs and requirements.
A business license is issued for a minimum of one year and must be renewed annually, including the payment of renewal fees.
Costs depend on:
- type of license (Freelancer, Limited Liability Company, Consultancy, etc.),
- registration zone (Free Zone vs. Mainland),
- number of listed business activities,
- number of employees and residence visas,
- whether a virtual office or physical office is used.
The most affordable option is typically the Freelancer License, starting from around AED 4,500 per year.
Once the license is issued, the holder can apply for a residence visa for themselves and also sponsor family members.
Summary
Entering the UAE is straightforward for most nationalities, no pre-approved visa is required for most passport holders. While buying property does not require residency, holding a residence visa provides significant advantages: the ability to open a bank account, sign long-term contracts, stay for extended periods, and sponsor family members. For property investors, the Property Owner Visa (AED 750,000+) and Golden Visa (AED 2,000,000+) are practical and highly valued pathways to long-term residence.
At higher investment levels, the Golden Visa grants up to 10 years of residency, independence from sponsorship, and eligibility for family sponsorship, making it one of the most attractive residency programs in the region. At RE/MAX De La More, we ensure not only that you receive the right documents to qualify for residency, but also that you choose the right property to reap as many benefits as possible. Curious to learn more or want to consult with us for free? Click the button below.
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