Investor Visa vs. Golden Visa in Dubai: Understanding the Key Differences

 I am holding an investor visa in a mainland Dubai-based company and plan to buy a new house to make me eligible for the Golden Visa. What happens to my investor visa if I decide to get the Golden Visa?

 As an individual holding an investor visa in a mainland Dubai-based company, the prospect of obtaining a Golden Visa is undoubtedly enticing. The Golden Visa offers a pathway to long-term residency in the UAE, providing a host of benefits and privileges to its holders. However, the decision to pursue a Golden Visa raises questions about the status of one's existing investor visa and the implications of transitioning between the two.

 In the context of transitioning from an investor visa to a Golden Visa, it is important to note that the Golden Visa is typically granted based on specific criteria, such as property ownership. Therefore, if you decide to purchase a new house in Dubai to meet the eligibility requirements for the Golden Visa, it is likely that your investor visa will be affected.

 In most cases, obtaining a Golden Visa would supersede your existing investor visa, as the Golden Visa represents a higher level of residency status in the UAE. This transition may involve the cancellation or modification of your investor visa, as you would no longer be solely reliant on it for your residency rights in the country.

 Once you acquire your Golden Visa, you are granted a 6-month visa to enter the country before getting residency2. When you acquire your residence visa, you don’t need to stay in the country for long to maintain your status.

 Please note that this information is based on the rules as of early 2024 and may have changed. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please contact the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) or the UAE’s embassies and consulates. For Dubai visas, contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai (GDRFAD).

This service allows the real estate investor owning a property the purchase value of which is equal to or more than 2 million AED at the time of purchase, to apply for a 10-years renewable residence permit. The husband or wife, children, and parents can be sponsored. In the event that a mortgaged property, a bank letter indicating 2 million AED paid amount as proof to be provided.

 How can I apply for a Golden Visa in Dubai?

Documents Required to Land department.

1- A passport

2- Availability of an e-Certificate of Title / Title deed

3- A personal photo

4- UAE ID (if any)

5- A copy of the current residence permit (if any).

 Charges for 10 years residency permit

1- AED 700 fee for medical examination

2- AED 1,153 fee for UAE ID (10 years)

3- AED 2,656.75 fee for confirmation of residency permit (10 years)

4- AED 4,020 fee for the Land Department

5- AED 1,155 administrative fee

The total is AED 9,684.75

 Family residence permit for 10 years

AED 5,668.50 fees

AED 318.75 fee for opening a family sponsorship file

A residence permit for the parents for 10 years

AED 5,668.50 fee for 10 years

Service Procedures:

Step I: A customer will move to a service center

Step II: A customer will submit the service requirements and pay the fees

Step III: A customer will perform a medical examination at the center

Step IV: Sending the residence permit of the applicant via e-mail

 However, it's important to consult with an immigration professional for specific advice on your situation. They can advise on any potential conflicts between your current visa and the Golden Visa based on your company's specific investor visa program.