How to Apply for Retirement Visa in UAE 2026
Step-by-step guide to the UAE retirement visa 2026: eligibility, costs, documents, and the easiest way to secure your long-stay permit.
Quick answer
The UAE Retirement Visa (also called the 5-year Retirement Residence Visa) is available to anyone aged 55 and above who can prove AED 1,000,000 in savings or an AED 10,000 monthly income. You apply through ICP or GDRFA online portals, get medical fitness and Emirates ID, then receive a renewable five-year visa.
Who qualifies for the UAE Retirement Visa in 2026?
Both expats already living in the UAE and new applicants from abroad can apply. You must be at least 55 years old on the date of submission. The financial test is straightforward: either AED 1,000,000 in liquid assets (bank statements or investment portfolio) or a guaranteed monthly income of AED 10,000 (pension letter, annuity, or property rental contracts).
Additional requirements
- Valid passport with six months validity.
- Medical fitness test at an approved UAE centre.
- Proof of accommodation (Ejari tenancy contract or property title).
- Health insurance policy covering the UAE with minimum AED 100,000 annual limit.
Step-by-step application process
Step 1 – Check eligibility and gather documents
Scan your passport, bank statements for the last six months, pension award letter, and property documents. If your income is in foreign currency, convert at the current bank rate and highlight the AED 10,000 threshold.
Step 2 – Create an ICP or GDRFA account
Register at icp.gov.ae or the GDRFA-Dubai portal. Select “Retirement Visa – New” and fill the online form. Pay the non-refundable application fee (verify current fee with ICP).
Step 3 – Medical fitness and Emirates ID
Book a medical fitness test at any DHA- or MOHAP-approved centre. Once cleared, visit an Amer centre or typing centre to complete Emirates ID biometrics. The ID is mandatory for opening a bank account and using DEWA services.
Step 4 – Submit for visa stamping
Upload the medical certificate, insurance policy, and financial proofs. ICP issues an entry permit if you are overseas. Enter the UAE within 60 days, then convert the entry permit to a residence visa at Amer.
Step 5 – Emirates ID collection and visa stamping
Collect your Emirates ID card. The retirement visa vignette is placed in your passport or issued as a digital stamp. Both are valid for five years and renewable.
Costs to budget for
- ICP/GDRFA visa fees: verify current fee with ICP.
- Medical fitness: AED 700–1,200 depending on the emirate.
- Emirates ID: AED 370 for five years.
- Health insurance: AED 7,000–15,000 per year for comprehensive cover.
- Typing and submission centre charges: AED 200–400.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Submitting bank statements that do not clearly show the minimum balance on the day of application.
- Using travel insurance instead of a full UAE health policy.
- Forgetting to convert foreign income into AED at the correct exchange rate.
- Waiting until the passport has less than six months validity.
Renewal and long-term planning
The visa is renewable every five years provided you still meet the financial threshold. Many retirees open a UAE bank account and transfer pension income monthly; this satisfies both ICP and the bank’s KYC. Property owners in Dubai or Abu Dhabi can also use annual Ejari or title deeds as proof of accommodation.
Comparison with other long-stay options
| Visa type | Age | Financial test | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retirement Visa | 55+ | AED 1 m savings or AED 10 k income | 5 years |
| Golden Visa (property) | Any | AED 2 m property purchase | 10 years |
| Standard Residence | Any | Employment contract | 2–3 years |
Healthcare and daily life tips
Register with DHA or DOH for a medical record number. Pharmacies such as Aster and Life Pharmacy honour international prescriptions. DEWA, Etisalat, and du accounts are easily opened with your new Emirates ID. Public transport (RTA Nol card) offers senior discounts.
Key takeaway
If you are 55 or older and can document either AED 1,000,000 in savings or a steady AED 10,000 monthly income, the UAE Retirement Visa offers a straightforward five-year renewable residency with minimal paperwork. Start by confirming your numbers, book the medical test, and submit through ICP or GDRFA portals for a smooth 2026 transition.
Frequently asked questions
Can I include my spouse on the retirement visa?▾
Yes. Your spouse receives a 5-year dependant visa once your application is approved; children under 18 may also be added.
Is the AED 1,000,000 deposit held by the government?▾
No. The funds remain in your bank account; you only show statements proving the balance on the application date.
Can I work while on a retirement visa?▾
The visa does not grant an automatic work permit. You must obtain a separate work authorisation from MOHRE if you decide to work.
How long does approval take in 2026?▾
Most applicants receive the entry permit within 5–10 working days after medical fitness and Emirates ID are completed.
Do I need to visit the UAE to start the application?▾
You can begin online from abroad; however, you must enter the UAE within 60 days of the entry permit being issued to finish stamping.
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