No golden visas for crypto investors, UAE authorities confirm

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), and the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) have jointly dismissed recent reports claiming that the UAE grants golden visas to investors in digital currencies.

The statement comes amid growing misinformation circulating on various websites and social media platforms, a WAM report said.

Read: New golden visa alert: Sheikh Hamdan’s big move for Dubai Health staff

Golden visa eligibility clarified

The ICP emphasised that golden visas are issued based on official frameworks and criteria that do not include digital currency investors.

Eligible recipients typically fall into categories such as real estate investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists and specialists, top students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline workers.

The ICP advised the public to consult official government channels for accurate information regarding golden visa requirements.

SCA and VARA reinforce regulatory standards

The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) reiterated its commitment to internationally recognised standards in regulating the UAE’s financial sector. It affirmed that its regulatory procedures focus on transparency, credibility, and strengthening investor confidence in line with the country’s strategic objectives of attracting quality capital and fostering a sustainable investment environment.

The SCA clarified that digital currency investments are subject to separate regulations and are not linked to golden visa eligibility. Investors were urged to rely on official sources to avoid misinformation and potential fraud.

Similarly, the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) denied claims that virtual asset investors in Dubai receive golden visas. VARA underscored the importance of dealing exclusively with fully licensed and regulated companies when engaging in virtual asset investments and services.

VARA confirmed its collaboration with SCA and law enforcement agencies to ensure consumer protection and a secure operating environment. It also highlighted that companies licensed by VARA must comply with visa procedures set by Dubai and federal authorities.

Notably, VARA stated that the company TON is neither licensed nor regulated by the authority.

Public advised to use official channels

The three authorities collectively warned the public and investors to exercise caution and verify information through official government websites and approved communication platforms. They cautioned against engaging with unverified advertisements or online offers related to golden visas and digital currency investments.

For more detailed information on golden visa eligibility and application processes, the public is directed to visit the ICP’s official website.

UAE’s golden visa: Long-term residency programme

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a ‘golden visa’—a long-term residence permit designed to attract foreign investors, talented professionals, entrepreneurs, and outstanding students by providing exclusive benefits and stability for up to 10 years.

The golden visa enables holders to live, work, or study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor, while enjoying privileges such as the ability to sponsor family members, stay outside the country for extended periods without losing residency, and more.

Key benefits of the golden visa

• Entry visa valid for six months with multiple entries, allowing holders to complete residency formalities.

• Long-term, renewable residence visa for either 5 or 10 years.

• No requirement for a local sponsor.

• Ability to stay outside the UAE for more than six months without losing residency status.

• Rights to sponsor family members, including spouses and children regardless of age.

• Permission to sponsor unlimited domestic helpers.

• Family members may remain in the UAE until the end of their visa if the primary golden visa holder passes away.

Eligibility and requirements

The requirements for the golden visa vary according to the category of applicant—whether investor, entrepreneur, specialised talent, student, or humanitarian.

Investors in public funds

Investors who place capital in accredited investment funds may be eligible for a 10-year golden visa, provided they meet the following conditions:

• Submit a letter from an accredited UAE investment fund confirming a deposit of at least Dhs2m; or

• Provide a valid commercial or industrial license and memorandum of association proving capital of no less than Dhs2m; and

• Submit a letter from the Federal Tax Authority confirming annual government tax payments of at least Dhs250,000.

Additional conditions include:

• Full ownership of invested capital (no loans permitted).

• Proof of medical insurance for the investor and family members.

Real estate investors

Property owners may qualify for a renewable 5-year golden visa if they meet criteria including:

• A letter from the land department of the relevant emirate confirming ownership of property or properties valued at AED 2 million or more.

• The property may have been purchased with a loan from specific local banks approved by regulatory authorities.

Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs behind innovative economic projects of a technical or future-oriented nature may be eligible for a 5-year golden visa upon providing:

• An auditor’s report confirming the project is valued at Dhs500,000 or more.

• Approval from emirate authorities certifying the project’s technical or innovative nature.

• Support from an accredited UAE business incubator to establish the venture locally.

Outstanding specialised talents

The Golden visa targets outstanding specialised talents across various sectors, including:

• Doctors and scientists.

• Creatives in culture and arts.

• Inventors.

• Corporate executives.

• Specialists in scientific and engineering fields.

• Athletes.

• Doctoral degree holders.

Fields of expertise eligible under engineering and science include epidemiology, artificial intelligence, big data, computer engineering, electronics, software, electrical engineering, genetics, and biotechnology.

To qualify for a 10-year Golden visa in these categories, applicants must submit relevant approvals and certifications such as:

• Ministry of Health approval for doctors.

• Recommendation letters from Emirates Council of Scientists or Mohammed bin Rashid Medal Secretariat for scientists.

• Ministry of Economy endorsements for inventors’ patents.

• Cultural and arts department approval for creatives.

• Proof of academic qualifications and work experience for executives.

• Letters from sports authorities for athletes.

• Educational degrees and contracts for engineering and science specialists.

Outstanding students

The UAE also supports high-achieving students through Golden visa eligibility:

• High school students: Those topping national exams with a minimum grade of 95 per cent may receive a 5-year golden visa with Ministry of Education recommendation.

• University students: Outstanding university graduates from A or B rated institutions may obtain a 10-year visa, subject to GPA requirements (3.5 minimum for A-class, 3.8 for B-class universities) and having graduated within the last two years.

• Foreign university graduates: Students from top 100 global universities recognized by the Ministry of Education with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and graduation within two years may also qualify.

Visa durations may be extended depending on the length of academic programs.

Pioneers of humanitarian work

Individuals with distinguished records in humanitarian efforts can qualify for a 10-year golden visa. Eligible categories include:

• Members or key employees of international/regional organisations with at least five years of service.

• Civil association or public interest institution workers with a minimum of five years’ experience.

• Recipients of awards from organisations focusing on humanitarian causes.

• Financial supporters contributing at least Dhs2m to humanitarian work.

Frontline heroes

Healthcare and essential workers who have shown exceptional dedication during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic may be granted the Golden visa. Eligible roles include nurses, medical assistants, lab technicians, pharmacologists, and other approved professionals recognized by the Frontline Heroes Office.

Conclusion

The UAE’s golden visa represents a strategic initiative to attract global talent, investment, and innovation by providing long-term stability and exclusive privileges. Its broad eligibility criteria cover a diverse spectrum—from investors and entrepreneurs to students and frontline workers—reflecting the UAE’s ambition to cultivate a knowledge-driven and prosperous society.