Golden Visa for IT and tech professionals in the UAE
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The UAE is building a digital economy and actively invites tech talent. There are several ways in.
Quick answer
IT professionals usually qualify through the skilled-professional route — 30,000 monthly salary in a MOHRE level 1 or 2 job with a bachelor's degree — or through specialised-talent endorsements for experts in fields such as AI, cybersecurity and data science. Founders of tech start-ups can use the entrepreneur routes.
The UAE is building a digital economy and actively invites tech talent. There are several ways in.
Skilled-professional route
- 30,000 monthly salary
- MOHRE level 1 or 2 job
- Attested bachelor's degree or higher
- Salary certificate and bank statements
Specialised talent
Experts in priority fields such as AI, cybersecurity, data science and software engineering can be endorsed by the relevant authority, for example through recognised programmes and employers.
Tech founders
Start-up founders can apply through incubator approval or revenue-based entrepreneur routes.
Freelancers and remote workers
If you do not meet a Golden Visa route yet, the Green Visa for freelancers or the remote-work visa may fit.
Make sure your job title on the contract matches a level 1 or 2 classification.
Read next
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a degree in IT?
A bachelor's degree is needed for the skilled route; talent endorsements may consider experience.
Can a freelance developer get a Golden Visa?
Possibly through talent or entrepreneur routes; otherwise consider the Green Visa.
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