MORE ABOUT UAE

UAE's Independent Means Visas

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.

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United Arab Emirates - Independent Means Visas

Discover Independent Means Visa in the United Arab Emirates

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.

Minimum Income Amount

AED 1 million per year

Visa-Free Travel Countries

179

Months to Visa

2-3 months

Overview

A Snapshot of Independent Means Visa in the United Arab Emirates

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

Benefits of Independent Means Visa in the United Arab Emirates

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.

  • Long-term residency for you and your immediate family
  • Access to world-class healthcare and education systems
  • Potential pathway to UAE citizenship after meeting specific criteria

How to Apply for the Independent Means Visa in the United Arab Emirates

Submit application through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the emirate of residence

Overview

Requirements for UAE's Independent Means Visa

To qualify for the Independent Means Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria demonstrating their financial stability.

  • Prove a yearly income of at least AED 1 million (approximately US$272,000) from investments or other sources
  • Own a property in the UAE worth at least AED 1 million
  • Have valid health insurance coverage in the UAE
  • Pass a medical fitness test
  • Have a clean criminal record
  • Provide a security deposit

Overview

Documents Needed for UAE's Independent Means Visas

Completed and signed visa application form

Recent passport-sized photographs

Copy of passport with at least 6 months validity

Proof of income for the last 2 years

Bank statements showing financial stability

Police clearance certificates

Medical fitness certificate

Property ownership documents

Health insurance policy

Marriage Certificate

Children's birth certificates (if applicable)

Discover How GlobalPassport Simplifies the Application Process for UAE's Independent Means Visas

Step-by-Step Guidance

Our experienced team will guide you through each stage of the application process, offering personalized assistance tailored to your needs.

Document Preparation

We'll help you gather and organize the documents you need for applying.

Application Submission

Once your documents are ready, we'll let you know where and how to submit your application to the relevant authorities.

FAQs about UAE's Independent Means Visas

How long does it take to process an Independent Means Visa application?

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Can I include my family members in my Independent Means Visa application?

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What types of income qualify for the Independent Means Visa?

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How often do I need to renew my residency permit?

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Can Independent Means Visa holders apply for UAE citizenship?

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Why United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates offers a modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle, attractive tax regime, and welcoming environment for foreign residents.

Benefits:

  • No personal income tax
  • World-class infrastructure and amenities
  • Strategic location for global business

Advantages:

  • High standard of living
  • Multicultural environment
  • Excellent healthcare and education systems

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