Can I buy an off-plan property to qualify for the investor visa?

Yes, if the purchase price is AED 2 million or more and you hold a DLD-issued OQOOD contract.

How long does medical fitness take in Dubai?

Most approved centres deliver results within 24–48 hours; same-day stamping is possible at DXB Airport Medical Centre.

Can my spouse work on my investor visa?

Yes, spouses receive a residence visa that allows full-time employment without a separate work permit.

Is the investor visa valid across all emirates?

Yes, the ICP-issued visa permits living, working, and studying in any emirate, but you must update your address with GDRFA within 60 days of moving.

What happens if my investment drops below AED 2 million?

You must top up the investment or convert to another visa category; otherwise the Golden Visa will not be renewed on expiry.

How to Apply for Investor Visa in UAE 2026

a cluttered desk with papers and a stethoscope

Quick answer

You can get a 2- or 5-year UAE investor (Golden) visa by investing at least AED 2 million in a mainland company, property, or qualifying deposit; the application is submitted via ICP or a free-zone authority after you obtain the required approvals and medical test.

Who qualifies for an investor visa?

The investor visa is aimed at foreign nationals who bring capital into the UAE. You qualify if you meet any of these three routes:

Own at least AED 2 million in share capital of a mainland company (50 % or more ownership).
Purchase real estate worth AED 2 million or more (off-plan or ready).
Deposit AED 2 million in an MOHRE-approved investment fund for 3 years.

Each route leads to a 5-year renewable Golden Visa; smaller investments may still earn a 2-year investor visa if you own 100 % of a mainland LLC.

Step-by-step: how to apply for investor visa in UAE

Step 1 – Choose your investment route

Decide whether to buy property, incorporate a company, or place funds. Compare fees and timelines with your financial adviser. Property and company routes give quicker entry approval than funds.

Step 2 – Secure entry approval or visit visa

Apply for a 60-day entry permit through ICP’s online portal or a licensed typing centre. You’ll need a valid passport and a recent photo. Fee: AED 300.

Step 3 – Complete medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics

Book at an approved DHA centre in Dubai or SEHA in Abu Dhabi. Bring passport and entry permit. Results are sent electronically to ICP within 48 hours. Cost: AED 750 for medical + AED 370 for Emirates ID.

Step 4 – Submit investor visa application

Log in to ICP, upload documents, pay the visa fee (AED 4,650 for 5 years), and wait 5–10 working days for stamping. You can sponsor family once the visa is issued.

Required documents checklist

Passport valid 6+ months.
Passport-size photo (white background).
Proof of investment: property title deed, company MOA stamped by DED, or MOHRE fund certificate.
Medical fitness certificate.
Emirates ID application.
Health insurance valid in UAE (minimum AED 150,000 cover).

Common mistakes expats make

Buying property under AED 2 million and expecting Golden Visa status.
Forgetting to renew the visa before expiry—grace period is only 30 days.
Using an unlicensed consultant; always verify via ICP’s licensed agent list.
Not updating address with GDRFA within 60 days of move.

Costs you should budget (2026)

Entry permit	AED 300
Medical + Emirates ID	AED 1,120
5-year investor visa stamp	AED 4,650
Health insurance (family of 4, annual)	AED 12,000–18,000
Typing & service fees	AED 500–800

Always verify current fee with ICP before payment.

Tips to speed up approval

Choose a free-zone that offers in-house visa services (DMCC, IFZA, ADGM).
Upload colour scans under 2 MB each.
Book medical test the same day your entry permit is issued.
Use a PRO service familiar with ICP’s new 2026 digital queue system.

Investor visa vs other long-stay options

Compared with the remote-work visa (AED 2,000 for 1 year) or the freelance permit route, the investor visa offers longer validity, family sponsorship, and a clearer path to citizenship after 10 years. The property route is the fastest—some buyers receive approval in 14 days.

Key takeaway

Meeting the AED 2 million investment threshold unlocks a 5-year UAE Golden Visa that can be renewed indefinitely and includes family sponsorship. Start by selecting the right investment vehicle, gather the six core documents, and file through ICP’s portal to avoid delays in 2026.