Middle East
United Arab Emirates immigration and visa guide
The UAE provides the renowned 10-year Golden Visa, 5-year Green Visa, 1-year Remote Work (Digital Nomad) Visa, and 0% personal income tax.
Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) & GDRFA Dubai
- Processing time
- 1 – 4 weeks
- Passport validity
- 6+ months
- Points-based system
- No
- Digital nomad friendly
- Yes
Visa options in United Arab Emirates
Key requirements
- For Golden Visa (Professionals): monthly salary ≥ AED 30,000 (~$8,160 USD), Bachelor degree, and valid UAE employment contract
- For Remote Work Visa: proof of employment with foreign company and minimum monthly salary of $3,500 USD
- Emirates ID biometrics and medical fitness test (blood test & chest X-ray)
How to apply for a United Arab Emirates visa: step by step
- 1
Online ICP / GDRFA Application
Submit digital application on the ICP UAE or GDRFA Dubai portal with salary certificate and degree verification.
3 - 7 business days
- 2
Entry Permit & Medical Fitness Exam
Enter the UAE or adjust status, then complete the statutory medical fitness screening.
1 - 3 days
- 3
Emirates ID Biometrics & Digital Visa
Provide fingerprints at an ICP customer happiness center to receive physical Emirates ID card.
3 - 5 business days
Official government links
Frequently asked questions
Do I pay personal income tax in the UAE?
No. The United Arab Emirates levies 0% personal income tax, 0% capital gains tax, and 0% withholding tax on foreign income, making it one of the most tax-efficient hubs in the world.
Find a licensed adviser
For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.
Look for a lawyer registered with the national bar association or law society in United Arab Emirates. The official immigration website explains any rules on who may represent applicants.
Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) & GDRFA DubaiGeneral information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) & GDRFA Dubai on the official website before applying.