UAE - Changes to Golden Visa eligibility requirements for Executive Directors

18 February 2025 – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities have established new eligibility criteria for employees seeking Golden Visas under the ‘Executive Director’ category. These criteria are in addition to the stricter requirements introduced last year, which mandated a degree equivalency certificate to be submitted for the application. 

These conditions apply to applications submitted outside the Golden Visa nomination process.

Deloitte’s view

The UAE authorities are implementing stricter requirements for applicants applying for a Golden Visa under the Executive Director category. Due to the new 2-year tenure requirement, employees who were previously eligible for a Golden Visa may now need to wait longer to meet the eligibility criteria. This change is expected to impact the timing and planning for individuals seeking these long-term residency permits.