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UAE/VISAJan. 21, 2025

13 Reasons Your UAE Golden Visa Application Could Get Rejected

Writen by Gulf Time Media LLC

Viewed 1092 Views

The UAE Golden Visa, introduced in May 2019, has quickly become a sought-after residency option for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, researchers, and exceptional students. With benefits like multiple-entry permits, the ability to sponsor dependents, and exemption from frequent visa renewals, it's an attractive proposition for many. However, as with any official process, the UAE Golden Visa application comes with strict criteria that applicants must meet. Even minor oversights can result in rejection.

In this blog, we’ll explore the 13 most common reasons applications get rejected and offer insights on how to ensure your application meets the necessary requirements.

1. Ineligible Job Titles

One of the most common reasons for rejection is having a job title that doesn’t align with the criteria. Applicants must hold senior or specialized roles, such as managers, engineers, doctors, or other high-level professionals. If your job title doesn’t fit these requirements, your application is likely to be rejected.

2. Lack of Proper Degree

Your educational qualifications need to be legalized, attested, and reflect your professional role accurately. If your degree doesn’t meet these standards, or if it doesn’t align with your job description, your application will face hurdles.

3. Experience Shortfall

Applicants are usually required to have a minimum of two years of experience with the same company. Additionally, the company itself should employ at least ten individuals. Not meeting these experience or company size requirements can lead to a rejection.

4. Salary Requirements

To qualify for a UAE Golden Visa, applicants need to meet certain salary thresholds. Your salary must be at least Dh30,000 per month. This should be clearly documented through the WPS (Wage Protection System) or reflected as “salary” in your bank statements. Any discrepancies in the salary documentation could jeopardize your application.

5. Incomplete or Incorrect Documents

Missing documents, such as attestation, equivalency, or salary discrepancies in contracts and bank statements, can cause rejection. Ensure all documents are complete, correct, and well-organized before submission.

6. Immigration or Visa Issues

If you have overstayed a previous visa, accumulated fines, or have violated any immigration laws, these issues will reflect poorly on your application. The UAE authorities take these violations seriously, and they could result in an automatic denial.

7. Financial Stability

Applicants must prove that they can financially support themselves and their dependents. Financial documents, including bank statements and proof of income, should clearly demonstrate your financial stability.

8. Criminal Records

Having a criminal record or any security flag will disqualify you from obtaining a Golden Visa. The UAE maintains strict security protocols, and applicants must undergo thorough background checks.

9. Nomination Letter Requirement

For certain categories, such as specialized professionals or talent, you may be required to provide a nomination letter from relevant UAE ministries. Without this letter, your application could be rejected.

10. Health Insurance

Comprehensive health insurance for yourself and your dependents is mandatory for Golden Visa applicants. If you fail to provide proof of adequate coverage, your application will not be processed.

11. Talent Criteria

Applicants applying under the exceptional talent category must demonstrate recognized expertise or achievements in their field. This could include awards, patents, publications, or other evidence of exceptional contributions. Without solid proof, your application will likely be rejected.

12. Investment Proof (For Investors)

For investors, the requirement is clear: you must demonstrate a minimum of Dh2 million in public investments, real estate, or financial deposits. Additionally, the investment must meet tax requirements. If you don’t meet these criteria or fail to provide the necessary documentation, your application will be denied.

13. Tax Contribution (For Investors)

Certain investor categories require proof of a minimum annual tax contribution. Specifically, a letter from the Federal Tax Authority confirming that you’ve paid Dh250,000 or more in taxes annually is necessary. Failing to provide this proof can result in rejection.

Expert Insights

Recent feedback from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) indicates that the most common reasons for rejection involve insufficient experience with the same employer and discrepancies in visa designations. Consultants such as Virtuzone and MSZ Consultancy also emphasize that applicants must stay up to date with evolving criteria and ensure all documentation is accurate and complete.

Investor-Specific Requirements

If you’re applying as an investor, there are additional requirements to be aware of:

  • Public Investment: A minimum of Dh2 million in public investments verified by an accredited UAE investment fund.
  • Real Estate: Ownership of real estate valued at least Dh2 million.
  • Tax Contribution: An annual tax contribution of Dh250,000 verified by the Federal Tax Authority.