First, let us briefly review the main types of visas available in the UAE. All residency visas are issued for a limited period – 2, 3, 5, or 10 years – with the possibility of renewal provided that the established requirements are met. Foreign nationals cannot obtain permanent residency or UAE citizenship; however, the country’s long-term residency system is considered one of the most flexible and transparent in the world.
In 2026, the process of obtaining UAE residency visas remains straightforward and well-structured, and visa renewals generally do not cause difficulties. This is why many foreign nationals reside in the UAE for years, regularly renewing their residency status.
Employment visas in the UAE
An employment visa is issued by an employer when a foreign national is officially hired by a company registered in the UAE, either on the mainland or in a free economic zone. After obtaining an employment visa, a resident is entitled to sponsor visas for family members, including a spouse and minor children. The costs of issuing the primary employment visa are usually covered by the employer, while family visas are paid for, depending on the terms of the employment contract. Within this overview, employment visas are not examined in detail. The focus is instead placed on investor and entrepreneur visa options.
Obtaining a UAE residency visa through property ownership
Foreign nationals may obtain a UAE residency visa on the basis of property ownership. As of 2026, the following conditions apply.
For a standard investor visa:
- minimum property value: AED 1,000,000 (approximately USD 272,000);
- the property must be residential and completed;
- if purchased with a mortgage, at least 50% of the property value must be paid.
If these conditions are met, the investor may obtain a UAE residency visa. It is important to note that the visa is cancelled if the property is sold.
Golden Visa through property investment
To obtain a 10-year Golden Visa, the following requirements apply:
- property investment of at least AED 2,000,000 (approximately USD 545,000);
- one or multiple properties may be used to meet the threshold;
- mortgage financing is permitted, subject to sufficient equity paid.
The Golden Visa is less closely tied to a specific property than a standard investor visa and provides a more stable residency status.
Costs
Approximate costs for obtaining a residency visa through property investment:
- standard investor visa: AED 40,000–45,000 (approximately USD 11,000–12,300);
- Golden Visa: AED 45,000–55,000 (approximately USD 12,300–15,000).
The average processing time is around one month. For citizens of certain countries, the process may take slightly longer due to additional security checks.
Obtaining a residency visa through company registration in the UAE
Registering a company is one of the most popular and versatile ways to obtain a UAE residency visa.
This option provides the investor with:
- full control over residency status;
- the ability to sponsor family members and employees;
- a legal entity for conducting business and opening a corporate bank account;
- flexibility without linking the visa to property ownership.
Company registration typically takes 2 to 7 working days, after which visa applications can be submitted immediately. The overall process of company formation and visa issuance typically takes about 1 month.
Costs
The total cost of company registration with one investor visa generally ranges from AED 44,000 to AED 55,000 (approximately USD 12,000–15,000), depending on the selected free zone, license type, and service package. Additional visas are charged separately.
Golden Visa for investors and entrepreneurs
The Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa valid for 10 years and is not tied to a specific employer.
The Golden Visa may be obtained on the basis of:
- property investment of at least AED 2,000,000;
- ownership or participation in a business with confirmed investment value;
- entrepreneurial projects approved by government authorities;
- certain professional and executive categories.
Advantages of the Golden Visa
- validity period of 10 years;
- no requirement for continuous residence in the UAE;
- the ability to sponsor family members and domestic staff;
- a high level of stability of residency status.
Procedure for cancelling a residency visa
If a residency visa is no longer required, it must be formally cancelled. Leaving the UAE without a visa cancellation may result in complications upon re-entry.
If the visa was issued through a company, the company must either be closed or renewed together with its license and visas.
Additional rules and useful information
- At the final stage of the visa process, a medical examination in the UAE is mandatory;
- Residents should not remain outside the UAE for more than 180 consecutive days (the rule is applied more flexibly for Golden Visa holders);
- Overstaying results in fines;
- A tourist visa may be converted into a residency visa without leaving the UAE, provided the prescribed procedure is followed and the applicable fees are paid.
Summary: visas in the UAE
The UAE offers one of the fastest and most transparent residency visa systems in the world. Procedures are regularly updated to reflect the interests of investors and entrepreneurs.
Unlike in many countries, where residence permits can take months or even years to obtain, UAE residency status can be secured within a relatively short timeframe. Once a visa is issued, residents gain access to key advantages of the country, including the absence of personal income tax, a high level of security, and a favorable business environment.
