The Independent Means Visa in the UAE, also known as the Residence visa for the retired, offers long-term residency to qualified individuals who can demonstrate financial stability without the need for employment in the country.
MOBILITY ASSSET SNAPSHOT
The Independent Means Visa program in the UAE provides a pathway to long-term residency for individuals with substantial financial resources. This program is designed to attract retirees, investors, and other individuals looking to establish residency in a dynamic, modern country with a favorable tax regime.
Overview
A route to long-term residency for financially independent individuals in the UAE
Eligibility Requirements
Individuals with passive income from a foreign source
Anchor Ancestor restrictions
Months to citizenship
Length of Visa
5 years, renewable
Months to Visa
2-3 months
Physical Presence Requirement
Must not be outside the UAE for more than 6 consecutive months
Availability
High
Family Allowance
Spouse and children
Overview
Submit application through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the emirate of residence
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Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How long does it take to process an Independent Means Visa application?
Can I include my family members in my Independent Means Visa application?
What types of income qualify for the Independent Means Visa?
How often do I need to renew my residency permit?
Can Independent Means Visa holders apply for UAE citizenship?
benefits
Independent Means Visa in the United Arab Emirates
The Residence visa for the retired offers numerous advantages for individuals looking to establish their presence in the UAE's modern and cosmopolitan environment.
Access to world-class infrastructure and healthcare
Tax-free environment for personal income
Strategic location for global travel and business
Fast Processing Time
Long term program (compared to other Independent Means Visas)
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Online Submission Allowed
Visa-Free Travel Countries
158
Passport Validity
10 years, 5 years for children
Overview
The United Arab Emirates offers a modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle, attractive tax regime, and welcoming environment for foreign residents.
Benefits:
Advantages:
Questions?
Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our services.
How long does it take to process an Independent Means Visa application?
Can I include my family members in my Independent Means Visa application?
What types of income qualify for the Independent Means Visa?
How often do I need to renew my residency permit?
Can Independent Means Visa holders apply for UAE citizenship?
REQUIREMENTS
Check if you qualify based on your family history
Not applicable
Minimum Income or Savings: Pensions, Investments, Rental income+Regular Income Stream: Monthly pension payments, Annuities, Proof of Financial Independence
Not applicable
Not applicable
REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for the Independent Means Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria demonstrating their financial stability.
PROCESS
Initial Assessment
• Verify passive income sources
• Confirm income thresholds
• Review healthcare requirements
• Complete financial documentation
Selection Phase
• Choose destination country
• Review residency requirements
• Assess tax implications
• Select optimal visa category
Application Preparation
• Gather proof of income
• Obtain health insurance
• Prepare bank statements
• Complete background verification
Submission
• Submit residency application
• Pay visa fees
• Schedule interview (if required)
• Provide biometric data
Residency Setup
• Receive residency permit
• Register with local authorities
• Set up banking/utilities
• Complete residency registration
PROCESS
DOCUMENTS
Passport+Passport copies of applicant and dependents
Marriage certificate and birth certificates of dependents (if applicable)
Not applicable
Not applicable
Applicants must provide documentation proving they have sufficient financial means to support themselves in UAE
DOCUMENTS
Birth certificates from government archives; Marriage certificates for family dependencies; Police clearance records from current and past residences
Certified translations into official language(s); Apostille certification; Government-issued document legalization
Diploma and transcript verification; Professional certification authentication; Credential evaluation services
Initial application submission fee; Processing and handling charges; Administrative review fees
Fingerprint collection fee; Digital photograph requirements; Biometric data processing
Required medical examinations; Vaccination verification; Health certificate processing
Document verification fees; Background check processing; Application status updates
Consulate visit expenses; Interview travel costs; Temporary accommodation (if required)
Language proficiency testing; Skills assessment fees; Additional document requests
Immigration lawyer consultation; Document review services; Legal representation fees
Tax planning consultation; Asset transfer advisory; Investment planning services
Relocation services; Property search assistance; Settlement support services
Residency card processing; Passport issuance fees; Registration certificates
Oath ceremony fees; Registration charges; Local authority fees
Renewal fees; Status maintenance costs; Annual reporting fees
Rankings
95
Overall Rank
Cost
Based on application fee
Residency Requirements
Based on residency requirements
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Residency Privileges Length
Based on programs’s term
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Processing Speed
Based on estimated processing time
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Eligibility Requirements
Based on entry requirements
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Program Stability
Based on years of activity
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Time to Permanent Residency
Based on permanent residency timeline
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Rankings
Safety
53
Cost of Living
27
Quality of Life
26
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Healthcare Quality
82
Internet Speed
2
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Human Freedom
125
IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS
Explore alternative pathways to live and work
TIPS & TUTORIALS
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