How Much Does the UAE Golden Visa Cost in 2026?
The UAE Golden Visa is one of the most sought-after long-term residency options in the world. But before you apply, you need to know the real cost — not just the investment threshold, but the actual government fees, medical tests, Emirates ID charges, and processing costs you will pay out of pocket.
In 2026, the total golden visa cost in the UAE ranges from AED 4,600 to AED 10,250 in government and processing fees, depending on your category. This does not include the investment amount (such as AED 2 million in property or a bank deposit), which you retain as an asset.
This guide provides a complete golden visa fee breakdown for every category — investors, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and family dependents — so you can budget accurately before applying. If you are a freelancer, our Golden Visa for Freelancers UAE 2026 guide covers the specific fees and eligibility for the freelancer pathway, including the more affordable 5-year Green Visa option.
What Are the Government Fees for the Golden Visa?
Every Golden Visa applicant pays a combination of mandatory government fees. These are set by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). The fees apply whether you are inside or outside the UAE at the time of application.
The core fees that every applicant pays are:
- Visa issuance fee: AED 2,700 – AED 2,800 (10-year residence permit)
- Emirates ID (10-year): AED 1,100 – AED 1,200 (AED 100 per year + AED 100 smart service fee)
- Medical fitness test: AED 700 – AED 1,000 (HIV test + chest X-ray, required at any DHA/MOHAP-approved centre)
- Application typing/service fee: AED 100 – AED 350 (varies by typing centre)
- Knowledge Dirham + Innovation Dirham: AED 20 (mandatory government surcharge)
These base fees total approximately AED 4,600 – AED 5,400 for most applicants.
How Much Does the Golden Visa Cost by Category?
The total cost varies significantly depending on the eligibility route you use. Here is a detailed breakdown by category:
| Category | Investment / Requirement | Government Fees | Total Out-of-Pocket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Property Investor | AED 2M+ property | AED 4,600 – 5,400 | AED 9,685 – 10,250* |
| Bank Deposit Investor | AED 2M fixed deposit | AED 4,600 – 4,650 | AED 4,600 – 5,000 |
| Business Owner / Entrepreneur | AED 2M+ company value | AED 4,600 – 5,400 | AED 5,500 – 7,000 |
| Skilled Professional | AED 30,000+/month salary | AED 4,600 – 5,400 | AED 5,500 – 7,000 |
| Exceptional Talent / Scientist | Nomination / recognition | AED 2,790 – 5,400 | AED 4,000 – 6,000 |
| Outstanding Student | GPA 3.75+ or 95%+ grades | AED 3,500 – 4,600 | AED 4,000 – 6,000 |
*Property investors pay additional Dubai Land Department (DLD) charges including a No Objection Certificate (NOC) fee of AED 4,000 – AED 5,000 and title deed verification, which is why their total is higher.
If you are a foreign investor planning to set up a business in Dubai as part of your Golden Visa strategy, our foreigner business setup guide covers the complete process from company registration to bank account opening, with costs starting from AED 5,750.
What Is the Difference Between 5-Year and 10-Year Golden Visa Costs?
The UAE Golden Visa is available in two durations: 5-year and 10-year. The cost difference is primarily in the Emirates ID fee. For a complete comparison of eligibility, benefits, sponsorship rights, and which duration is best for your situation, see our dedicated 5 year vs 10 year Golden Visa comparison guide.
| Fee Component | 5-Year Golden Visa | 10-Year Golden Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Visa issuance | AED 1,350 – 1,400 | AED 2,700 – 2,800 |
| Emirates ID | AED 600 (AED 100 × 5 + AED 100) | AED 1,100 (AED 100 × 10 + AED 100) |
| Medical fitness test | AED 700 – 1,000 | AED 700 – 1,000 |
| Typing + surcharges | AED 120 – 370 | AED 120 – 370 |
| Estimated Total | AED 2,770 – 3,370 | AED 4,620 – 5,270 |
Most categories qualify for the 10-year Golden Visa, which is the standard option. The 5-year visa is typically for high school students with 95%+ grades and some freelancer categories. Freelancers can also opt for the 5-year Green Visa at lower fees — see our freelancer Golden Visa guide for a side-by-side cost comparison. On a per-year basis, the 10-year option is better value.
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