The United Arab Emirates does not offer a traditional permanent residency (PR) system, but its Golden Visa program provides long-term, renewable residency for 5 or 10 years. This visa is available to a wide range of individuals, including investors, skilled professionals, and exceptional talents. Golden Visa program The Golden Visa offers many of the benefits of permanent residency, such as: Long-term security: You can live, work, and study in the UAE without a national sponsor. Family sponsorship: You can sponsor your spouse, children (regardless of age), and an unlimited number of domestic helpers. Extended stay abroad: You can stay outside the UAE for longer than the typical six months without affecting your residency status. Income tax exemption: The UAE has a 0% tax on personal income. Work and business: The visa gives you the freedom to work or start a business in the UAE. Eligibility categories The Golden Visa is available through several routes based on your professional or financial standing: Investors: Must invest at least AED 2 million in real estate or a local UAE bank. A recent pilot program also allows some foreign nationals, such as Indians, to be nominated for a Golden Visa for a fee of AED 100,000, without a large property or business investment. Entrepreneurs: Includes individuals who own a UAE-registered business and young entrepreneurs. Skilled professionals: Must have a high level of expertise in a priority field and hold a high educational degree. This includes scientists, researchers, medical specialists, teachers, and senior executives. Exceptional talents: Recognizes outstanding individuals in fields such as arts, culture, and sports. Digital creators and YouTubers may also qualify. Outstanding students: Top-performing high school and university students are eligible for a Golden Visa. Retirees: The Retirement Visa offers five-year residency for those aged 55 and over. How to apply You can apply for a Golden Visa through various channels: Online portals: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) has online smart services and an app. Local offices: You can also apply through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or other relevant government entities