UAE Golden Visa: How Eligible Applicants Can Nominate Themselves Online

Foreign nationals hoping to obtain the United Arab Emirates’ Golden Visa may be able to begin the process themselves, even if they have not received a nomination from government authorities.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) provides an online service that allows eligible applicants to check their potential eligibility and submit a nomination request.

However, submitting a request does not guarantee approval. Applicants must meet the requirements for their selected category and obtain the necessary authorisation before proceeding with the remaining residency application procedures.

What Is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency programme that allows eligible foreign nationals to live, work and study in the country without requiring a local sponsor.

Depending on the applicant’s category, the residency permit can be valid for up to 10 years.

The programme covers several groups, including investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, scientists, outstanding students, exceptional talents and individuals recognised for humanitarian contributions.

Eligible residents can also sponsor family members, subject to the applicable requirements.

Who Can Apply for a Golden Visa?

Applicants must identify the category that best matches their qualifications, professional background, investments or achievements before starting the process.

The main categories include:

• Investors: Individuals who meet the requirements for investment in UAE public investments or real estate.
• Entrepreneurs: Business owners and founders who satisfy the relevant business and financial criteria.
• Scientists and specialists: Eligible researchers, doctors, healthcare professionals, educators and other highly skilled individuals.
• Outstanding students: High-achieving secondary school students and university graduates who meet the academic requirements.
• Exceptional talents: Eligible artists, inventors, athletes and specialists in digital technology and other recognised fields.
• Humanitarian pioneers: Individuals who qualify through recognised humanitarian contributions and achievements.

Each category has its own eligibility conditions and documentary requirements. Applicants should consult the official ICP guidance before submitting their details.

How to Submit a Golden Visa Nomination Request Online

Eligible applicants can use the ICP online service to check their category and begin the nomination process.

Step 1: Visit the ICP eligibility portal

Open the ICP Smart Services website and locate the Golden Visa eligibility service.

Step 2: Select your category

Choose the category that corresponds to your qualifications, professional experience, investment or other relevant achievements.

Step 3: Complete the eligibility questionnaire

Answer the questions presented by the system. The information required will depend on the category selected.

For example, university graduates may be asked to provide their grade point average, field of study and graduation year. They may also need to confirm that their qualification has been attested by the relevant UAE education authority.

Step 4: Review the eligibility result

After completing the questionnaire, the system will indicate the category for which you may qualify.

This result is an initial assessment, not confirmation that your Golden Visa has been approved.

Step 5: Sign in using UAE Pass

Applicants proceeding with the request will need to sign in through UAE Pass and complete their personal information.

Details retrieved from official records may include the applicant’s unified number, emirate, full name, nationality, passport number, gender, date of birth and country of birth.

Step 6: Enter your profession

Select your occupation from the available options and ensure that it matches the profession recorded on your Emirates ID, where applicable.

Step 7: Upload supporting documents

Attach the documents required for your selected category. Depending on the application, these may include educational qualifications, professional records, investment evidence or other supporting documents.

The ICP may request additional information if necessary during its review.

Step 8: Review, pay and submit

Check the information entered, pay the applicable service fee and submit the nomination request.

After payment, you should receive a reference number that can be used to track the application. The authority may contact you if further documentation is required.

How Much Does the Golden Visa Nomination Cost?

Gulf News reported a nomination service fee of Dh155, comprising listed e-service and ICP charges.

The report listed an e-service fee of Dh29 and ICP fees of Dh122. These components add up to Dh151, so applicants should confirm the final amount displayed on the official payment screen before making payment.

The nomination fee should also be distinguished from any other charges that may apply during the subsequent residency application process.

Applicants should use the official ICP platform to verify the current fees and requirements for their specific category.

How Long Does Approval Take?

The processing time for a Golden Visa nomination request varies depending on the applicant’s category, eligibility and supporting documents.

The ICP may request additional information before reaching a decision.

If the nomination is approved, the applicant can proceed with the remaining steps required to obtain the Golden Visa.

Importantly, nomination approval does not guarantee that the Golden Visa will be issued. The final decision remains subject to the applicable eligibility criteria and approval procedures.

Where Can Applicants Get Official Information?

Applicants who need clarification about their eligibility, supporting documents or application status should consult the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security through its official website.

The authority’s published guidance should be used to confirm current requirements, service charges and application procedures before submitting a request.