The UAE government expands the categories for Golden visa eligibility. The Golden visa is a long-term resident visa that allows foreign nationals to live, work or study in the UAE while receiving special privileges, such as a six-month entrance visa with multiple entries to facilitate issuing of a residence permit or a 5-10 year renewable long-term resident permit. With its extended categories and eligibilities, the Golden visa is expected to strengthen the UAE's position as one of the world's leading centres for global business and investment.

Apart from the general skilled professional category, four new categories of experts are qualified for long-term residence following the recent amendments made to the Golden Visa rules.

From top experts in the business to senior academicians and religious leaders, the following are the new extended categories for the visa. 

For senior academicians/scholars, a recommendation from the Ministry of Culture and Youth or a competent local authority is required.

A reference letter from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology or a competent local authority would be necessary for the specialists in the industry and the fourth industrial revolution. 

Specialists in the health field or the field of medicine require a reference letter from the Ministry of Health or the Abu Dhabi Department of Health, as well as a valid license to operate in the UAE, are required.

For education specialists, a reference letter from the Ministry of Education or the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, along with a valid UAE operating license.

Other skilled professionals must have an approved employment contract in the UAE. Proof that the applicant holds a position classified as level 1 or 2 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE)'s occupational classification scheme, an attested bachelor's degree or equivalent, a valid practicing license in the emirate or UAE for professions that require it, and an employment certificate.

Anyone who wishes to apply for the Golden Visa can do so online using the ICP smart services platform. Candidates must supply the appropriate paperwork and be willing to relocate to the UAE by their business endeavours to begin the process. The underlying criterion for all the above-mentioned requisites is that the individual is employed in the UAE and has a position categorized by MoHREs occupational classification scheme.

The advantages of long-term visas will also be extended to direct family members. Children under the age of 25 can be sponsored by the Golden Visa holder or Green Residence visa, an increase from the previous regulation of 18 years, with no age limit for unmarried daughters. Children of determination, whatever age, are awarded a residence visa.