Golden Visa vs. Investor Visa: Key Differences for Investors

Investment

2 weeks ago

Today Dubai is among the most popular destinations for global investors because of the effectively developing economy, the highest-class infrastructure, and the advantageous geographical position. With investing opportunities in everything from property to technology, the emirate is either involved or interested in everything.

The Golden Visa and the Investor Visa are two of the most popular types of residency on the market for investors. The two visas are immensely useful, but they meet distinct requirements and involve varied amounts of investment. This article delves into the key differences between golden visa vs. investor visa, investment requirements, and the role of off-plan projects in Dubai in acquiring these visas.

Introduction to Golden Visa and Investor Visa

The Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa that has been initiated by the UAE government to avail immigration for the skilled professional along with investors. With a validity of 10 years, the Golden Visa is particularly appealing to investors looking for stability and long-term returns in new developments in Dubai.

On the other hand, an Investor Visa is a relatively more limited visa, and it expires after three years have been completed. It is intended for anyone willing to invest in Dubai’s expanding market, more specifically in properties. Each visa allows investors to obtain exclusive opportunities but the choice between the two types of visa mostly depends on the capabilities of the applicant and his/her investment plans.

Key Differences Between Golden Visa and Investor Visa

1. Duration of Residency

The Golden Visa grants a 5 or 10-year residency permit renewable. It is most suitable for those who need a long-term residence in the new country. The Investor Visa is, however, valid for 3 to 5 years, and one has to renew it when expiring.

2. Investment Thresholds

The Golden Visa has more rigorous financial criteria, which corresponds to its versatile advantages. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, have a university degree, be fluent in English, and/or Arabic, invest at least AED 2 million in any real estate property, start a business with minimum capital equivalent to AED 1 million, or, meet other requirements. The Investor Visas does not require much, investors only have to invest for a minimum of AED 750,000.

3. Scope of Benefits

Benefits of a Golden visa include the sponsoring of family members for the same period as the Golden Visa holder, no need for a local sponsor, and preferential rights in banking, health, and education services. Like the Investor Visa, family sponsorship is also possible in the context of the Skilled Migrant Visa but its benefits are much less.

4. Eligibility Criteria

Entities given Golden Visa status are not just restricted to the real estate business, and investors, but also the entrepreneurs, scholars, skilled personnel in science and technology, students, etc. Of the existing visas, the Investor Visa is mainly for business persons who are seeking to invest in real estate.

Buying Off-Plan Properties to Obtain Visas

Dubai’s real estate market offers a plethora of opportunities for investors, with off-plan projects in Dubai being a popular choice. Off-plan properties mean properties that customers buy first before construction is done. These projects come at fairly cheaper costs and with acceptable modes of payment by both local and international investors.

Golden Visa and Off-Plan Investments

To obtain the Golden Visa through property investment, one has to invest in a property worth not less than AED 2 million. This may comprise off-plan premises, so long as the investment does not fall below the minimum. Some developers in new developments in Dubai opt to create off-plan projects that meet the requirements of a Golden Visa to make it easier for investors to access.

Investor Visa and Off-Plan Investments

For the Investor Visa, off-plan property investments are also allowed, though they cost a minimum of AED 750,000. Many off-plan projects in Dubai cater to this segment, allowing investors to enter the market with a smaller financial commitment while still securing residency benefits.

How Much Investment is Needed to Get These Visas?

Golden Visa Investment Requirements

Real Estate: The minimum capital that one should have is AED 2 million or be investing in ready or off-plan property.
Business Setup: The commitment of a large amount of money to a company or a startup.
Other Criteria: The list of beneficiaries can include gifted learners, outstanding scholars, and unique skilled artists.

Investor Visa Investment Requirements

Real Estate: AED 750,000 in real estate, which includes off-plan projects as well.
Ownership: The property to be used as security must be owned by the applicant and the property must not be charged or encumbered or where financed the property should be not less than 50 percent paid for.

Conclusion

The Golden Visa and Investor Visa are both programs that provide residency in Dubai while investing but the investors belong to two different categories. Each one provides benefits depending on the value of the investment, so the Golden Visa scheme is most suitable for those willing to make long-term investments of relatively greater value, whereas the Investor Visa is more suitable for those who want to invest a smaller amount of money. Off-plan projects in Dubai provide a viable route for both visa types, offering flexible payment plans and competitive pricing.

In view of the constant new projects in Dubai, investors can now select from all and sundry as their investment destinations. Whether your goals for staying in Canada are setting up a new home or temporary work, it is crucial to know the dissimilarities of these visas. If you’re also planning to get any of the visas through investing in the new development in Dubai, First Point Real Estate is here to help. All the steps from the initiation of the process to its completion can be provided by our team of professionals. FirstPoint Real Estate should be contacted now.