The UAE is home to one of the world’s most dynamic and diverse populations. People from all over the world head here to work, start businesses and take advantage of the incredible opportunities on offer in this part of the world.
Should you wish to join them and relocate to the UAE, there are several ways to do so. The pathway that’s right for you will depend on your personal circumstances, qualifications, skills, country of origin and much more.
One increasingly popular option is the UAE Silver Visa, which allows certain individuals to live and work in the country for up to five years before renewal. In this article, we’ll explore the features, application process and everything else you need to know about the Silver Visa to help you determine whether it is the right fit.
What is the silver visa in the UAE?
The UAE Silver Visa is a residence visa that allows an extended stay in the Emirates. Successful applicants can live and work in the UAE for up to five years before needing to renew.
The visa is aimed at a range of individuals, such as investors, entrepreneurs, retirees and those with specialised skills. While most pathways to the Silver Visa are via investment, it is often one of the most cost-effective routes to securing long-term residency in the UAE.
Who is eligible for a Silver Visa?
To be eligible for the Silver Visa, you must be over the age of 18, have a clean criminal record, hold a valid passport and be a citizen of a nation with a valid diplomatic agreement with the UAE. To qualify via investment, you must invest at least AED 1m into a UAE-based business venture.
Alternatively, you can invest AED 5m into real estate. This investment must be held for three years. If you are an entrepreneur, you can also qualify via a startup project with a minimum capital of AED 500,000 or by obtaining approval from an accredited business incubator.
The Silver Visa is also open to retirees. To take this pathway, you must be above the age of 55 and make an investment of AED 500,000 into an eligible pension fund or AED 1m into real estate.
Alternatively, you can qualify via special skills. In this instance, you would need to demonstrate proof of your qualifications and experience in the fields of science, innovation, medicine or technology and satisfy UAE authorities that you can contribute positively to the country’s economy and society.
In any case, you must also satisfy the immigration authorities that you have sufficient means to support yourself and your family during your stay in the UAE.
How to get a silver visa in the UAE: Step-by-step
When applying for your Silver Visa in the UAE, it is always a good idea to work with an expert in the field, such as Creative Zone. Your dedicated contact will determine your eligibility and guide you through the following process, liaising with all authorities on your behalf.
Step 1: Gather documents
First, you’ll need to gather all documents that you’re required to submit to the UAE immigration authorities. This generally includes a copy of your passport, proof of any relevant skills and qualifications, a copy of your health insurance policy and evidence that you have financial means to invest in the UAE (if applicable) and support yourself while you’re here.
Step 2: Make your application
With your documents in order, you are ready to submit your application. This is usually done via the UAE Government’s online portal. Once again, the team at Creative Zone can assist with this step, ensuring all documentation is present and correct to avoid potential delays and rejection.
Step 3: Medical and fitness test
You are required to undergo a medical and fitness test as part of your application. This includes blood work and a chest x-ray to determine that you are free from any serious or communicable diseases.
Step 4: Emirates ID
As well as a visa, you will require an Emirates ID. This allows you to access government services during your stay in the country. As part of the Emirates ID application process, you will need to visit a registered office for biometric scanning.
Step 5: Visa stamping
The final step is to submit your passport to immigration for stamping. With the visa affixed in your passport, you are free to live and work in the UAE as a resident.
Benefits of the Silver Visa in the UAE
There are numerous benefits to obtaining a Silver Visa in the UAE, including:
Residency rights
First and foremost, the Silver Visa allows you to live freely in the UAE. Regularly ranked as one of the safest, most stable and secure countries in the world, with a high standard of living, it is hugely popular among professionals and entrepreneurs.
Family sponsorship
As the holder of a UAE visa, you are also free to sponsor your immediate family for their visas. This includes spouses, children and dependent parents. You can also sponsor the visa applications of domestic staff, such as maids and drivers.
Long-term settlement
Unlike many other visa options, the Silver Visa is renewable every five years, allowing you to make long-term plans and reside in the country indefinitely.
Financial opportunities
As a UAE resident, you are free to purchase real estate throughout the emirates and access the country’s banking system.
Self-sponsorship
When applying for the Silver Visa, you do not require an employment contract or a local sponsor. This allows you greater autonomy over the process and your stay in the country.
Get your Silver visa with Creative Zone
The UAE Silver Visa application process has stringent eligibility criteria and a lengthy list of paperwork and formalities that Creative Zone can assist you with. Our team of specialists will guide you through each step and help build a strong profile for your application.
Creative Zone is the oldest and most trusted company setup expert in the United Arab Emirates. Since our establishment in 2010, we have helped over 44,000 entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. We specialise in offering prompt, reliable, hassle-free, and professional support to help you start a business.
We’re here to assist every step of the way. Whatever your visa requirements, we’re on hand with support, guidance and expertise. So, if you’re looking to lay the foundations for life in the UAE, Creative Zone is your ideal starting point.
Get in touch today to take the first step.
