By dubailife 
Editor’s Note: Since this report was published on August 15, some visa processing centers have started accepting Golden Visa applications from individuals in managerial roles with a total salary of Dh30,000. According to these centers, the requirement was revised as of August 16. However, many others continue to cite Dh30,000 as a basic salary requirement. Khaleej Times has reached out to multiple stakeholders for clarification and will update this report as more details become available.
UAE-based professionals eligible for the Golden Visa must have a basic monthly salary of Dh30,000 to apply for long-term residency. Immigration experts and residents whose applications were rejected confirmed to Khaleej Times that the minimum salary requirement does not include allowances.
Compensation packages in the UAE typically consist of a mix of basic salaries and allowances, such as housing and transport.
Nofisatu Mojidi, a senior manager at the Dubai office of the immigration services firm Fragomen, stated: “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, including allowances. The requirement has now shifted to a basic salary of Dh30,000 per month, excluding any allowances.”
This change means that professionals who meet the Dh30,000 threshold only 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 comment.
Firosekhan, an operations manager at Dubai-based Arabian Business Centre, also noted that only applicants with a basic salary of Dh30,000 are obtaining the long-term visa. He added that those with titles such as ‘manager’ and ‘director’ on their visas, or professions like engineers and doctors, find it easier to secure residency.
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.
Implications of the Change
According to Mojidi, the shift to a minimum basic salary requirement indicates that the “bar has been raised” for potential Golden Visa applicants.
“This new criterion highlights the UAE’s focus on attracting exceptionally talented individuals with significant earning potential. It also means that current applicants in the pre-approval stage may face challenges in securing final approval, and existing Golden Visa holders might struggle to meet the new requirements when renewing their visas, potentially impacting their eligibility,” she added.
Concerns and Inquiries
Mojidi noted a “noticeable increase” in inquiries from clients regarding these changes.
“Many are concerned about their ability to meet the new basic salary requirement, particularly those who previously qualified under the old criteria by including allowances. In response, we guide clients toward alternative pathways to the Golden Visa. For example, in Dubai, we assist in securing nominations from principal 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 a 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 such as physicians, pharmacists, or teachers, and have comprehensive health insurance covering themselves and their family members.
Source : Khaleejtimes