This change means that professionals who meet the Dh30,000 threshold through their total compensation package are no longer eligible for the 10-year visa.
DUBAI: UAE-based professionals eligible for the Golden Visa must have a basic monthly salary of Dh30,000 to apply for long-term residency. According to immigration experts and residents who faced rejections, the minimum salary requirement does not include allowances.
In the UAE, compensation packages typically consist of basic salaries combined with allowances such as housing and transport. Moreover, Dubai is the wealthiest city in the Middle East.
Nofisatu Mojidi, a senior manager at the Dubai office of the immigration services firm Fragomen, explained: “The salary requirements for the UAE Golden Visa have indeed changed. Previously, under the ‘Scientists & Specialists’ pathway, applicants needed a minimum gross salary of Dh30,000 per month, which included allowances. Now, the requirement has shifted to a basic salary of Dh30,000 per month, excluding any allowances.”
This change means that professionals who meet the Dh30,000 threshold through their total compensation package are no longer eligible for the 10-year visa.
A customer care agent from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) confirmed this development. Khaleej Times has reached out to the ICP for an official statement.
Firosekhan, operations manager at Dubai-based Arabian Business Centre, also confirmed that only applicants with a Dh30,000 basic salary are being granted the long-term visa. He noted that individuals with job titles like ‘manager’ and ‘director’ or professions such as engineers and doctors find it easier to secure a residency.
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In 2022, the UAE expanded its Golden Visa scheme to include skilled professionals in fields such as medicine, science and engineering, information technology, business and administration, education, law, culture, and social sciences.
Impact of the Change
According to Mojidi, the shift to a minimum basic salary requirement raises the bar for prospective Golden Visa applicants. “This new criterion highlights the UAE’s aim to attract exceptionally talented individuals with substantial earning potential. It also means that current applicants in the pre-approval stage might encounter difficulties in securing final approval, and existing Golden Visa holders may struggle to meet the new requirements during renewal, potentially affecting their eligibility,” she added.
Concerns and Inquiries
Mojidi noted a “noticeable increase” in client inquiries regarding these changes. “Many are concerned about meeting the new basic salary requirement, especially those who previously qualified under the old criteria by including allowances. In response, we guide clients towards alternative pathways to the Golden Visa. For instance, in Dubai, we assist in securing nominations from key government authorities for individuals with unique skills or qualifications.”
According to current regulations, in addition to the basic salary requirement, applicants must have a valid employment contract and labor permit, belong to the first or second professional level as per MoHRE classification, hold at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in their field, possess a professional practice permit for roles like physicians, pharmacists, or teachers, and have comprehensive health insurance covering themselves and their family members.
