Is Dubai/UAE Golden visa the same as permanent residency?

No, Dubai / UAE Golden visa is valid for 10 years. UAE does not offer a permanent residency status, unlike the UK Indefinite Leave to Remain or the USA Green Card.

 

Instead, a Golden visa can be renewed for another 10 years if you continue to meet requirements, such as keep the property or investments of AED 2 million, which is equivalent of approximately GBP 400,000 or USD 550,000. One of the great advantages is you do not have to spend any minimum time in the UAE and are not subject to the 180-day rule. You can remain outside the UAE for more than 180 days without losing a Golden visa and without having to apply for a re-entry permit. 

 

Is Retirement visa a Golden visa and the same as permanent residency?

 

Retirement visa is for 5 years and also renewable subject to maintaining property or investments of AED 1 million or the required minimum income. It has similarities with a Golden visa and is often unofficially called a Golden Retirement Visa.

 

However, is it not officially a part of the Golden visa programme, it is Residence for the Retired and it is subject to the 180-day rule. If you leave the UAE for more than 180 days, you would have to apply for a re-entry permit.

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