Golden Visa vs. Green Visa: Which is Best for Your Business in Dubai?
Table of Contents
GOLDEN VISA
Understanding the Golden Visa
Benefits of the Golden Visa:
✅ 10-year residency with automatic renewal.
✅ No local sponsor required.
✅ 100% business ownership in Dubai.
✅ Family sponsorship, including spouse, children, and household staff.
✅ Multi-entry privileges and ease of travel.
✅ Access to top-tier healthcare and education facilities.
Who is eligible?
- Investors in public investments of at least AED 2 million.
- Providers who start businesses in the United Arab Emirates
- The United Arab Emirates welcomes professionals with expertise in medicine alongside engineers, information technology staff, and researchers.
- Outstanding students and graduates.
- Individuals who own real estate properties worth at least AED 2 million become eligible for UAE residency.
GREEN VISA
Understanding the Green Visa
Prospective skilled workers, together with freelancers and self-employed entrepreneurs, can obtain the UAE Green Visa. Investors on the Green Visa receive 5-year authorization and multiple renewal possibilities.
Benefits of the Green Visa:
✅ 5-year residency without a sponsor
✅ Extended grace period of up to 6 months after expiration.
✅ Sponsorship for family members, including parents
✅ Greater flexibility for freelancers and self-employed individuals.
✅ Ideal for startups and independent professionals.
Who is eligible?
- Freelancers and self-employed individuals with proof of income over AED 360,000 in the last 2 years.
- Bachelor’s degree holders are eligible for the United Arab Emirates resident visa if they maintain an employment contract that proves their professional expertise.
- Entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Golden Visa vs. Green Visa: Key Differences
| Feature | Golden Visa | Green Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | 10 years | 5 years |
| Sponsor Required? | No | No |
| Business Ownership | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
| Family Sponsorship | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes (Includes parents) |
| Target Audience | Investors, entrepreneurs, and high-skilled professionals | Freelancers, entrepreneurs, skilled employees |
| Minimum Investment Required | AED 2 million | AED 360,000 (annual income proof) |
| Grace Period After Expiry | Standard | Extended (up to 6 months) |
Your business targets can determine which visa provides the most beneficial features. The Golden Visa serves as the optimal choice for investors together with individuals who possess high net worth. Apart from the Golden Visa, the Green Visa serves as a top choice for freelancers alongside skilled workers and owners of small businesses.
How Can One-Step Business Setup in Dubai Help?
The visa application process becomes seamless through the services of One Step Business Setup in Dubai. Our expert consultants provide:
Complete guidance on choosing the right visa. Business registration & company formation in Dubai. Document preparation and legal compliance. Visa processing & approvals. Ongoing business support & advisory services.
Our service guarantees smooth operations from beginning to end for Golden Visa investors and freelancers who apply for the Green Visa.
Conclusion: Which Visa is Best for You?
Your business structure and investment capability, along with your future business plans, will decide which visa between the Golden and Green Visa you should select. One Step Business Setup in Dubai is ready to support your business in selecting the most suitable visa option.
Phone us now to start your Dubai business venture with the perfect visa along with premium professional guidance.
FAQs
Yes, if you meet the Golden Visa criteria (investment, business ownership, or high-skilled expertise), you can upgrade your visa.
The Golden Visa is better for investors and large-scale business owners, while the Green Visa is ideal for freelancers and small business owners.
The process can take 2 to 4 weeks, depending on documentation and approvals.
Yes, Green Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children, and even parents.
We provide end-to-end visa processing, business registration, and documentation support to ensure a smooth experience.
