Do You Get a Visa If You Buy Property in Dubai?
Dubai is one of the most desirable places to live and invest in, thanks to its modern infrastructure, luxurious lifestyle, and business-friendly environment. One question that often comes up is, “Do you get a visa if you buy property in Dubai?” The simple answer is yes – it is possible to obtain a visa by purchasing property in Dubai. However, the specific type of visa you can get and the requirements involved can vary based on factors such as the property price and your intended use of the property.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of visas you can obtain by purchasing property in Dubai, including the investor visa, the Golden Visa, and the requirements for each. We’ll also discuss how much you need to invest and whether you can use your property to obtain permanent residency or even citizenship in the UAE.
Can I Buy Property to Get a Dubai Visa?
Yes, buying property in Dubai can allow you to secure a visa. The UAE government has introduced several visa options for property investors, making it easier for foreigners to own and live in the country. The most common visa options include:
2-Year Investor Visa
This type of visa is available to individuals who purchase property worth a certain amount.
5-Year Property Visa UAE
This long-term visa allows investors to reside in the UAE for five years.
10-Year Golden Visa UAE
This is a permanent residency visa, usually reserved for high-net-worth individuals or those who make significant investments in Dubai.
The type of visa you can apply for depends on how much you are willing to invest in property.
What is the AED 750,000 Property Visa?
The AED 750,000 property visa is a popular option for property buyers in Dubai. As part of the UAE’s initiative to attract foreign investment, the government offers a long-term residency visa for individuals who invest a minimum of AED 750,000 in real estate.
This visa is typically valid for 2 years, and it can be renewed if the investor continues to hold the property. The property can be either a single unit or a collection of smaller units, as long as the total value meets the AED 750,000 threshold.
Investors who obtain this visa enjoy the privilege of living in Dubai, and it can also be extended for subsequent periods. However, the visa is tied to the property, meaning if the property is sold, the visa will be revoked.
Can I Get Dubai Citizenship if I Buy a House?
Unlike many countries, the UAE does not offer citizenship to foreigners just by purchasing property. The concept of obtaining UAE citizenship through property ownership is not part of the existing laws. However, the UAE government has introduced a Golden Visa for long-term residency, which is the closest alternative.
The Golden Visa provides foreign investors and professionals with a 10-year residency in the UAE, and while it does not lead to citizenship, it grants long-term security.
If you're hoping to obtain Emirati citizenship, the path is complex and typically involves significant contributions to the country, such as exceptional talent, professional excellence, or an extraordinary investment in the UAE. The citizenship process is selective and can be highly competitive, with the UAE offering it primarily to select groups such as outstanding professionals, investors, and individuals who have significantly contributed to the nation.
How Much Salary Is Required for a Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa UAE is available to investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding students, and specialized talent. While there is no fixed salary requirement for the Golden Visa, the most common pathway is through investment in the UAE.
For investors, a high net-worth investment in real estate, business, or other sectors can qualify you for a 10-year residency visa. However, if you are applying as a skilled worker or a professional, your eligibility for the Golden Visa will depend on your qualifications, salary, and contribution to the UAE economy.
Typically, applicants for the Golden Visa must be earning a salary of AED 30,000 to AED 50,000 per month. But for the most part, the Golden Visa is about making significant investments or having skills that are in demand by the UAE economy.
What Is the 2-Year Investor Visa Dubai?
The 2-year investor visa Dubai is a short-term residency visa issued to foreign investors who buy property worth a certain amount in Dubai.
To qualify for the 2-year investor visa, the property investment must meet the minimum required value of AED 750,000. The visa is valid for two years, during which time you can live, work, and travel within the UAE. After the two years, the visa can be renewed, provided the investor continues to hold the property. This visa also allows the investor to bring their immediate family members to live with them in the UAE.
The 2-year investor visa Dubai requirements include:
Minimum Property Value: AED 750,000
Proof of Ownership
You must hold a freehold property in Dubai.
No Outstanding Debts
Your property must be free of mortgages or liens.
How to Get Emirati Citizenship?
As mentioned earlier, obtaining Emirati citizenship by buying a house is not possible. However, there are other pathways to gaining citizenship, although they are quite rare and selective.
Most of the individuals eligible for citizenship are those who have made significant contributions to the UAE, such as:
Exceptional Talent in Fields Like Technology, Medicine, Science, and Engineering
Entrepreneurs Who Establish Successful Businesses in the UAE
Investors Who Contribute to the UAE's Economy Through Large-Scale Investments
While the UAE has recently allowed some foreign nationals to apply for citizenship, it remains a highly selective process.
5-Year Property Visa UAE
The 5-year property visa UAE is another popular option for those who wish to live in the UAE for an extended period without the need to renew their visa every two years. This visa is available for individuals who purchase property worth a certain amount, often set at around AED 2 million.
The 5-year property visa is perfect for high-net-worth individuals who wish to enjoy long-term residency in Dubai and have significant investments in the real estate market. The property must be maintained in your name throughout the duration of the visa, and the visa can be renewed after five years, as long as you continue to meet the requirements.
3-Year Investor Visa Dubai
The 3-year investor visa Dubai is typically offered to property buyers who invest a minimum amount in real estate. This visa, though less common than the 2-year and 5-year visas, provides investors with residency for three years.
This visa is also tied to the property investment, meaning that once you sell the property, the visa will become invalid. The key benefit of this visa is the flexibility it provides, allowing you to live, work, and enjoy the benefits of living in the UAE for three years.
Investor Visa Dubai 750,000
The Investor Visa Dubai 750,000 is one of the most popular types of visas for foreign investors looking to buy property in Dubai. With this visa, investors who purchase property worth at least AED 750,000 can enjoy two years of residency in the UAE.
The key requirements for this visa are:
Property Value: Minimum AED 750,000
Proof of Ownership
You must own the property outright (i.e., no mortgages).
Good Conduct
The UAE authorities typically require investors to have a clean criminal record.
This visa also allows investors to sponsor their immediate family members, making it an attractive option for those looking to relocate to the UAE with their family.
10-Year Golden Visa UAE Cost
The 10-year Golden Visa UAE is designed for investors, entrepreneurs, and specialized talent. The cost for obtaining the Golden Visa can vary depending on the type of investment. For real estate investors, the minimum investment is typically around AED 2 million to qualify for the Golden Visa.
The benefit of the Golden Visa is that it offers long-term residency without the need for renewal, and it can be extended after 10 years if the investor continues to meet the eligibility criteria. The Golden Visa is also ideal for individuals looking for more security and freedom in the UAE without the constant need to apply for visa renewals.
Conclusion
So, do you get a visa if you buy property in Dubai? Yes, you can, and there are several options available depending on the amount of your investment. Whether you're looking for a 2-year investor visa, a 5-year property visa, or the coveted 10-year Golden Visa, Dubai offers multiple ways for property buyers to obtain residency in this vibrant city.
While buying property does not directly lead to citizenship in the UAE, the various visas allow investors to enjoy long-term residency and the benefits of living in one of the world’s most exciting and prosperous cities. If you're considering a move to Dubai and want to know more about how to get started with property investment and obtaining a visa, there are plenty of options to choose from based on your investment level and personal goals.
By understanding the different visa options and property requirements, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the perks of living in the UAE.