Professionals based in the UAE seeking the Golden Visa must now have a basic monthly salary of Dh30,000 to qualify for long-term residency, excluding any allowances. Immigration experts and individuals whose applications were denied shared with Khaleej Times that the salary criterion does not include benefits. In the UAE, typical compensation packages consist of a combination of basic salaries and additional allowances such as housing and transportation.
Nofisatu Mojidi, a senior manager at Fragomen's Dubai office, noted that the requirements for the UAE's Golden Visa have been updated. Previously, applicants under the 'Scientists & Specialists' category needed a gross monthly salary of Dh30,000, including allowances. The current requirement is a basic salary of Dh30,000, with no allowances considered.
This adjustment implies that professionals whose total compensation meets the Dh30,000 mark may not be eligible for the 10-year visa. A customer service representative from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) verified this change. Khaleej Times has requested an official statement from the ICP.
Firosekhan, an operation manager at Arabian Business Centre in Dubai, confirmed that only those with a basic salary of Dh30,000 are now receiving the long-term visa. He mentioned that individuals with titles such as 'manager' or 'director', or those in professions like engineering and medicine, find it easier to obtain residency.
In 2022, the UAE extended its Golden Visa program to include skilled professionals in various fields such as medicine, science, engineering, IT, business, education, law, culture, and social sciences. Mojidi explained that the new basic salary requirement raises the standards for potential Golden Visa candidates, highlighting the UAE's goal to attract highly talented individuals with significant earning potential.
She also noted that this change could complicate the approval process for those in the pre-approval stage and affect the renewal eligibility for current Golden Visa holders. Mojidi reported a significant rise in inquiries from concerned clients about these modifications, and her firm assists by exploring alternative routes to the Golden Visa, such as securing nominations from major government bodies for individuals with exceptional skills or qualifications.
According to current regulations, in addition to the basic salary requirement, applicants must have a valid employment contract and labor permit, be classified in the first or second professional level by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), hold at least a bachelor's degree, have a professional practice permit for specific roles, and be covered by comprehensive health insurance for themselves and their family members.
