Your Guide to Sharjah Golden Visa Requirements
The United Arab Emirates has long been a destination for global talent, entrepreneurs, and investors seeking new opportunities. The UAE’s Golden Visa program stands out as a significant initiative, offering long-term residency to those who can contribute to the nation’s growth. Among the seven emirates, Sharjah provides a unique blend of cultural heritage and economic dynamism, making its Golden Visa particularly attractive. Understanding the specifics of this program is the first step toward securing a long-term future in this vibrant emirate.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Sharjah Golden Visa. We will cover the eligibility criteria for different categories, the necessary documents, the application process, and the many benefits that come with this prestigious residency permit.
What is the Sharjah Golden Visa?
The Sharjah Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa that allows foreign nationals to live, work, or study in the emirate without the need for a national sponsor. This visa is typically valid for 5 or 10 years and is renewable, providing stability and security for holders and their families. It is part of the broader UAE Golden Visa system, designed to attract and retain individuals with exceptional skills, significant investments, or promising entrepreneurial ventures.
Key features of this visa include the ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children, regardless of their age, and the freedom to stay outside the UAE for extended periods without affecting the visa’s validity. This flexibility makes it an ideal option for those with international business or personal commitments. Compared to standard residency visas, the Golden Visa offers unparalleled autonomy and a host of exclusive benefits.
Eligibility Criteria for Sharjah Golden Visa
The path to obtaining a Golden Visa in Sharjah depends on your professional or investment profile. The government has established several categories, each with its own set of specific requirements.
Investors in Public Investments
Individuals who make a significant financial contribution to the UAE’s economy can qualify for a 10-year Golden Visa. The primary requirement is an investment of at least AED 2 million in an accredited UAE investment fund. Alternatively, you can establish a company in the UAE with a capital investment of no less than AED 2 million.
Applicants in this category must also demonstrate that they contribute at least AED 250,000 annually to the federal government in taxes. Crucially, the invested capital must be wholly owned by the applicant and not sourced from a loan. Proof of comprehensive health insurance for yourself and your family is also mandatory.
Real Estate Investors
Investing in Sharjah’s property market is another direct route to a Golden Visa. If you own a property or a portfolio of properties with a total value of at least AED 2 million, you may be eligible for a 5-year or 10-year visa. This value is based on the official evaluation from the land department in the emirate.
It is possible to qualify even if the property was purchased with a loan from a specific local bank approved by the relevant authorities. For properties jointly owned by a husband and wife, if the total value meets the threshold, both can be eligible, though specific rules apply regarding the share distribution and primary applicant status.
Entrepreneurs
Innovators and business owners with a vision for the future can secure a 5-year Golden Visa. This category is for those who own an economic project of a technical or future-oriented nature. For tech startups and growing ventures, organizing transport for corporate delegations is made easier by understanding why shuttle services are the future of efficient business logistics in the UAE.
An auditor in the UAE must certify that the project’s value is no less than AED 500,000. You will also need a letter from the authorities in Sharjah confirming the project’s technical or future-focused nature. Finally, an accredited business incubator in the UAE must approve the establishment of your proposed activity.
Outstanding Talents
The UAE seeks to attract top-tier professionals from various fields. A 10-year Golden Visa is available for outstanding specialized talents, including doctors, scientists, creative individuals in culture and art, inventors, executives, and specialists in key scientific fields. These fields include epidemiology, artificial intelligence, big data, and various engineering disciplines.
Each sub-category has unique requirements. For example, doctors need an approval letter from the Ministry of Health and Prevention, while creative individuals need one from the department of culture and arts in Sharjah. Executive directors must have a bachelor’s degree, at least five years of experience in their position, and a minimum salary of AED 50,000.
Outstanding Students
Exceptional students also have the opportunity to obtain a Golden Visa, fostering a new generation of talent within the UAE. High school students who are national-level toppers with a minimum grade of 95% can receive a 5-year visa. A recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education is required.
University students can qualify for a 10-year visa. To be eligible, the student’s university must be rated Class A or B by the Ministry of Education, and the student must have a high cumulative GPA (3.5 for A-class or 3.8 for B-class universities). Graduates from the top 100 universities globally can also apply, provided their GPA is at least 3.5 and the graduation certificate is accredited.
Documents Required for Sharjah Golden Visa Application
A smooth application process starts with having all your documents in order. While specific requirements vary by category, a general checklist applies to most applicants. You will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity and high-quality digital photos that meet government standards.
For investors, documents will include title deeds or letters from investment funds. Entrepreneurs need their project valuation and approval letters. Talented professionals must provide accredited degrees, experience letters, and recommendations from relevant authorities. Students will need their transcripts, graduation certificates, and letters from their educational institutions. All applicants must also provide proof of valid health insurance in the UAE.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Sharjah Golden Visa
The application process for the Golden Visa is streamlined through online portals. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) offers a “One touch” Golden Visa service to simplify the procedure.
First, you can check your eligibility through the ICP website or a dedicated mobile app. Once you confirm you meet the criteria, you can begin the application by submitting the required documents through the online portal. The system will guide you through each step, from filling out the forms to paying the fees.
After submission, your application undergoes verification by the relevant authorities. If all Sharjah Golden Visa requirements are met, you will receive an entry permit to proceed with the final steps inside the UAE, which include a medical fitness test and the issuance of your Emirates ID and residence visa.
Benefits of the Sharjah Golden Visa
The Golden Visa offers a range of benefits that enhance the quality of life and provide long-term stability for residents. One of the most significant advantages is the ability to sponsor your family members, including your spouse and children, for the same visa duration. This allows families to stay together and build a life in Sharjah.
Holders also enjoy the freedom to stay outside the UAE for more than six months without their visa becoming invalid, a privilege not extended to most other residence visa holders. Additionally, you can sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers. In the unfortunate event that the primary visa holder passes away, their family members can remain in the UAE until the end of their permit’s duration, ensuring their security during a difficult time.
Cost of Sharjah Golden Visa
The cost of obtaining a Golden Visa can vary depending on the category and the specific services required. Application fees, issuance charges, and medical test costs are standard components. For a 10-year property investor visa, the initial cost is approximately AED 9,985, with renewal fees being slightly lower.
These figures do not include the cost of health insurance, document attestation, or other related services. It is important to budget for these additional expenses when planning your application. Costs for sponsoring dependents will also add to the total investment. Despite the upfront costs, the long-term benefits and security offered by the visa present a valuable return.
FAQs About Sharjah Golden Visa Requirements
What is the minimum investment for a Sharjah Golden Visa?
The minimum investment required is AED 2 million. This can be through a real estate purchase or an investment in an accredited public fund.
Can I sponsor my family with a Sharjah Golden Visa?
Yes, you can sponsor your spouse, children (regardless of age), and parents for the same duration as your visa, providing a stable living arrangement for your entire family.
Do I need to stay in the UAE to maintain my Golden Visa?
No, you are not required to return to the UAE every six months. Golden Visa holders can stay abroad for extended periods without impacting their residency status.
What are the benefits of the Sharjah Golden Visa for students?
Outstanding students can secure long-term residency (5 or 10 years), allowing them to complete their studies and explore career opportunities in the UAE without sponsorship concerns.
How long does it take to process a Sharjah Golden Visa?
The processing time for the full list of Sharjah Golden Visa requirements and the application itself typically ranges from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the applicant’s category and the completeness of the submitted documents.
Why Choose Sharjah for Your Golden Visa?
Securing a Golden Visa in Sharjah is more than just obtaining a long-term residency; it’s an investment in a future filled with opportunity. The emirate’s commitment to attracting top talent, fostering innovation, and providing a high quality of life makes it an ideal destination. By meeting the Sharjah Golden Visa requirements, you unlock a stable and prosperous future for yourself and your family in one of the UAE’s most culturally rich and economically promising emirates. If you are ready to take the next step, the path to a Golden Visa is clear and waiting.
