Golden Visa for Creatives, Athletes and Innovators

The Ministry of Culture recommends creatives who meet at least one of these, with evidence:

• Nominated for or won a respected global or regional creative award
• Hold an honorary position in a respected international organisation
• Active member of a respected international arts organisation
• Creative work with wide public and media recognition
• Work shown at internationally recognised exhibitions, festivals or events

• Colour personal photo
• Passport copy
• Emirates ID and residence visa copies, if you have them
• CV with biography, key works and achievements

We run every stage and only come back to you when we need a signature, a document or your attendance.

1. 1
   Document reviewWe check your passport, photo and route documents (title deed, contract, licence or certificates) so the file is complete before anything is filed.
2. 2
   Nomination and pre-approvalYour file is submitted for nomination and pre-approval with the competent Abu Dhabi entity and ICP.
3. 3
   Current visa cancelled (if any)A UAE residence visa you already hold is cancelled before the Golden Visa is issued. Visitors skip this step.
4. 4
   Entry permitA Golden Visa entry permit is issued, matched to whether you are inside or outside the UAE.
5. 5
   Change of statusAlready in the UAE? Your status is switched without leaving the country.
6. 6
   Medical fitness testEveryone aged 18 or over completes the medical screening. Standard or VIP appointments.
7. 7
   Emirates ID and biometricsWe file the Emirates ID application. Fingerprints are taken only if the system asks for them.
8. 8
   Health insuranceAbu Dhabi residence requires health insurance, issued before the residence application goes in.
9. 9
   Golden Visa issuedYour 10-year residence is issued digitally.
10. 10
    Emirates ID deliveredThe card is printed and delivered by courier to your registered address.

The order can change by route and by whether you apply from inside or outside the UAE.

Estimated government fees for a new 10-year Golden Visa. You see the full itemised list before you pay anything.

Fee schedule dated 5 November 2026. Government fees can change; we confirm the final amount in writing before you pay.