UAE Retirement Visa 2026: Eligibility and Cost

Who qualifies for the UAE retirement visa in 2026

The UAE retirement visa is open to anyone aged 55 or older who can prove stable income or savings. Applicants must hold valid health insurance and pass the required medical fitness test. No job offer is needed.

Financial requirements you must meet

You need either AED 20,000 monthly income or AED 1 million in savings or property. Proof can come from pensions, rental income, dividends or bank statements covering the last six months. The amount must sit in a UAE or recognised international bank.

Property ownership route

Owning residential property worth at least AED 2 million in your name counts toward the financial threshold. The property must be fully paid or have a mortgage with at least 50 percent equity. Title deeds are checked by ICP during the application.

Step-by-step application process

First complete the online ICP form and upload passport, photos, bank statements and proof of income. Pay the AED 3,000 visa fee plus AED 500 medical test. Book a biometrics slot at an ICP centre. Once approved, you receive an entry permit valid for 60 days to enter and finalise your Emirates ID and residency stamp.

Family and renewal rules

You can sponsor a spouse and unmarried children under 18 on the same visa. The visa is valid for five years and can be renewed as long as you still meet the financial criteria. No minimum stay is required, but you must renew before expiry to avoid fines.

Common reasons applications are rejected

Insufficient funds shown, outdated bank statements or missing health insurance are the top causes of refusal. Always submit documents issued within the last three months and ensure your insurance covers the UAE.

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Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →