Unlike traditional immigration systems, UAE residency is permit-based and renewable, with long-term options available under the Golden Visa framework.
The United Arab Emirates offers structured residency pathways for investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, retirees, students, and property owners.
Residency in the UAE is permit-based and renewable. Certain long-term categories are available under the Golden Visa framework.
Eligibility, investment thresholds, and documentation requirements vary depending on residency category and Emirate.
IMCA provides structured advisory evaluation and coordination to ensure alignment with applicable UAE regulations.
Residency through company formation in mainland or free zone jurisdictions.
Includes:
Typically renewable every 2–3 years, depending on license type.
Residency based on qualifying real estate ownership.
Includes:
Property must meet title and regulatory requirements.
Long-term residency is issued for 5 or 10 years, depending on eligibility.
Categories may include:
Golden Visa holders may sponsor family members and remain outside the UAE for extended periods without cancellation.
Residency sponsored by a UAE-licensed employer.
Includes:
Validity tied to employment contract.
Available to individuals meeting:
Typically issued for 5 years (renewable).
Residents may sponsor:
Income and housing requirements apply.
UAE residency is not citizenship.
Standard residence categories do not lead to automatic naturalization.
Residency must be:
IMCA coordinates applications through licensed UAE partners and ensures documentation alignment prior to submission.
Strategic residency planning requires evaluation of investment structure and long-term objectives.
IMCA provides:
✔ Residency category assessment (business vs property vs Golden Visa)
✔ Investment threshold analysis
✔ Corporate structuring guidance
✔ Documentation oversight
✔ Family sponsorship planning
Each case begins with evaluation, not assumption.