Dubai: The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship has launched a purpose-built website to receive golden visa applications where investors, entrepreneurs, professional talents and researchers can apply for this long-term visa.
Eligible applicants can submit their applications through https://business.goldenvisa.ae and the Authority will accordingly process the applications. All concerned government departments can also check the status of applications to make sure they are complete.
The portal launched on Monday states, "The Business Visa allows entrepreneurs the freedom to explore and experiment in the UAE, while securing a future for themselves and their families."
Ali Mohammed Al Shamsi, Chairman of Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, said: “Launching the website will allow business owners to enjoy a wide range of services and facilities along with unprecedented privileges and multiple options to run and develop their investments. It shorten many procedures and provide them with great facilities not only on the personal and family levels, but also on the professional one. They will be provided with all elements of success”.
For his part, Khalfan Juma Belhoul, Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), said: “The golden visa website is yet another step forward in creating a stimulating environment for entrepreneurs and start-ups. It is in line with our government’s efforts being made to develop a state-of-the-art infrastructure and provide legislative system that ensure the success of businesses and attract national and international talents across various vital sectors”.
The website comes in implementation to the Cabinet’s decision on the Regulation of Residence Permits for Investors, Entrepreneurs and Individuals with Specialised Talents. In accordance with the Decision, a five- or ten-year long-term residence visa system will be applied for certain categories of investors, entrepreneurs and professional talent, which will automatically be renewed when the same conditions are met.
A 'Gold Residency Visa' or 'Gold Card' grants the holder five or 10-years of residency in the UAE, the renewal of subject to certain terms and conditions. The visa extends to the sponsored family members of the holder as well.
The Gold Card visa process started on May 21 this year, and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs announced a target of 6,800 golden visas to be given out by the end of the year.
