Dubai and wider UAE have made major updates for the Golden Visa 2025, especially regarding salaried individuals. To meet the salary requirements for Golden Visa UAE in 2025, a specific minimum salary bracket must be met. This article offers a deep dive into those salary thresholds, changes in the rules, and full eligibility criteria. Stick around because after the conclusion we have FAQs to clarify everything.
What is a Golden Visa in the UAE?
The Golden Visa UAE is a long-term residency program that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the UAE without a local sponsor. It’s available in 2-, 5-, and 10-year versions. Initially aimed at investors, the Golden Visa has expanded to include professionals, doctors, entrepreneurs, artists, and skilled workers.
Benefits of a Golden Visa
- Long-term residency without needing a sponsor
- Multiple-entry visa, ideal for travel ease
- The ability to sponsor family members
- Easier access to UAE banking, education, and healthcare
- Opportunity to invest and contribute to UAE’s economic development
This visa is especially attractive to professionals who want stability and a long-term presence in the UAE.
What’s New in the UAE Golden Visa Rules for 2025?
In 2025, the UAE introduced updates that directly impact salary requirements for the Golden Visa and specific categories of eligibility. Here’s what’s changed:
Revised Salary Thresholds
- Professionals now need a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000 (or AED 360,000 per year).
- Specialized occupations may require higher salaries, depending on the emirate and sector.
Expanded Coverage
- More job titles and professions are now eligible, specifically recognized by the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MoHRE).
- Government and select private sector employees may receive visas based on designations rather than salary alone.
Tenure Adjustment
- The standard Golden Visa now offers five-year renewable options for salaried professionals. In certain cases (e.g., outstanding talent), a 10-year visa may be granted.
These changes make it easier for talent to gain long-term residence through salary-based Golden Visa routes.
Salary Requirements for Golden Visa UAE in 2025
This is the most searched question on the topic. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of salary requirements:
Minimum Income Threshold
The general salary requirement for Golden Visa UAE 2025:
| Employment Type | Minimum Monthly Salary | Annual Equivalent |
| Salaried professional (general) | AED 30,000 | AED 360,000 |
| Senior executive/executive roles | AED 40,000–50,000 | AED 480,000–600,000 |
| Specialized medical roles | AED 35,000–45,000 | AED 420,000–540,000 |
| Technical/scientific experts | AED 30,000–40,000 | AED 360,000–480,000 |
Meeting the salary requirement alone does not guarantee a visa—titles, roles, and approvals still matter.
Proof of Salary Requirement
To qualify, applicants must submit:
- Official employment contract
- Recent salary certificate from the employer
- Bank statements to show consistent salary credit
- Job title in line with MoHRE-approved roles for Golden Visa
UAE Golden Visa Requirements: Eligibility Criteria for 2025
Beyond salary, these are additional criteria for Golden Visa approval:
Professional Criteria
- Applicants must be full-time employees with a valid UAE work permit and labor card.
- Approved job titles are listed under MoHRE guidelines and may include engineering, medicine, IT, banking, finance, and education.
Educational Criteria
Depending on the job title, an applicant may also need:
- A bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
- A master’s or PhD for high-skilled or specialized roles
- Relevant professional certifications (for medical, legal, or technical positions)
Health and Security
- Applicants must pass a medical fitness test and provide clean results
- A security clearance certificate is mandatory for visa approval
Location Requirements
- The work must be based in the UAE mainland or approved free zone
- The employer must be officially registered and in good standing
UAE Golden Visa Cost 2025
Cost breakdown for applying:
| Service | Cost Range (AED) |
| Application fee | 100–200 |
| Medical fitness test | 300–500 |
| Emirates ID | 370 |
| Visa stamping in passport | 1,000–2,000 |
| Immigration/typing charges | 500–700 |
| Professional attestation | 300–1,000 |
Total cost ranges from AED 2,500 to AED 4,800, depending on your situation and whether family sponsorship is added.
Conclusion
Meeting salary requirements for Golden Visa UAE in 2025—especially the minimum AED 30,000 monthly threshold—allows talented professionals to secure longer residency in the UAE. With job-based eligibility, MoHRE-aligned designations, and the coverage of investor, professional, and family routes, the Golden Visa enhances both stability and growth potential.
If you’re considering Business Setup in Dubai, UAE, this visa is a strong foundation for long-term business planning, family security, and access to global markets.
FAQs
Is AED 30,000 the final threshold?
Yes, AED 30,000 per month is the minimum requirement for most salaried professionals. Higher roles may require AED 35,000–50,000.
Can I add family to my Golden Visa?
Yes. You can sponsor your spouse, children, and (sometimes) parents. Additional fees apply.
Do freelancers qualify?
Freelancers and self-employed professionals may apply under specific license categories or innovation programs, subject to reviewed income and business plan.
How long does visa processing take?
Typically 2–4 weeks, depending on medical tests, background checks, and document verification.
What documents do I need?
Basic requirements: valid UAE passport, labor card, MoHRE-approved job title, salary certificate, bank statements, medical report, Emirates ID, and security clearance.
How can I extend or renew it?
Golden Visas are often issued for 5 years and can be renewed before expiry using the same eligibility criteria.
