Many prospective investors and high-net-worth individuals ask: “How much deposit is required for Golden Visa?” The answer is more nuanced than many claims in the market. Below, you’ll find the latest, officially grounded details, plus key caveats you must know before applying.
What Does “Deposit” Mean in the UAE Golden Visa Context?
In the UAE’s Golden Visa scheme, “deposit” refers to a financial investment in a bank, investment fund, or local bonds (e.g. Sukuk) held under specific lock-in or non-withdrawal conditions. This deposit route is one of multiple paths to qualify as an investor under the Golden Visa framework.
It is important to emphasize:
- Not every Golden Visa category requires a financial deposit or property purchase. In fact, there are several ways to qualify even without major investment commitments if you meet professional or achievement-based criteria.
- The deposit must be legally owned (not financed via a loan), fully documented, and accepted by UAE immigration or emirate authorities.
How Much Deposit Is Required for Golden Visa? (2025 Official Threshold)
As of 2025, the officially recognized figure for the deposit (investment fund / financial deposit) route is:
AED 2,000,000 (Two Million UAE Dirhams)
This figure is corroborated by multiple UAE government sources:
- The UAE government portal confirms investors may present a letter from an accredited investment fund stating that the applicant holds a deposit of AED two million.
- The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports (ICP) echoes this same threshold.
- GDRFA Dubai’s investor route also specifies a financial deposit of no less than AED 2,000,000 held in a UAE bank or local bonds.
- ADCB Bank, a leading local institution, mirrors this requirement in its Golden Visa offering, requiring the investment to be maintained for at least two years.
Hence, AED 2,000,000 is the clear, consistent threshold for deposit-based Golden Visa eligibility across federal and emirate-level authorities.
Deposit Duration, Lock-In, and Renewal Conditions
Knowing the amount is only part of the picture — you must also observe:
- Lock-in & residency rule: Banks normally issue a certificate that the deposit is frozen for at least two years, and GDRFA guidance further states that withdrawal of the deposit is not permitted throughout the Golden Residency period (the visa term) — so plan for long-term illiquidity.
- Maintenance Through Visa Period: Some investors must renew or re-invest the deposit to maintain eligibility upon visa renewal.
- Non-withdrawability: Breaking deposit terms may result in visa disqualification or non-renewal.
Strategic planning—particularly around tenure, bank selection, and liquidity—is vital before applying.
Other Golden Visa Investment Routes for AED 2 Million
Many investors prefer not to freeze funds for two years, so they pursue alternative investment categories at the same threshold:
- Real Estate Investor Route: Own property or properties worth at least AED 2 million, free of major debt.
- Business / Capital Investment Route: Hold or invest AED 2 million in company capital (not financed by a loan).
- Tax / Income Route: Some investors qualify by paying at least AED 250,000 in annual UAE taxes through their companies.
All these categories share a similar financial threshold, but their liquidity and compliance requirements differ.
What About the AED 1 Million Option for 55+ Applicants?
Some sources claim that investors aged 55 or above can obtain a Golden Visa through a AED 1 million deposit. However, no current government documentation or ICP regulation confirms this reduced threshold. Unless verified directly with UAE authorities, such offers should be treated as promotional and not officially recognized.
Common Misconceptions & Risks to Watch Out For
Unfortunately, the popularity of the Golden Visa program has led to misinformation and exploitation. Here are the top misconceptions to avoid:
- “Lifetime visa” ads or low-cost deposit promises: The UAE has warned against private agencies promoting so-called lifetime or “guaranteed” Golden Visas. The program is strictly regulated and issued only through authorized government channels.
- Loan-financed deposits: The funds must be 100% owned by the applicant—using borrowed money, even temporarily, invalidates eligibility.
- Withdrawable deposits: While some banks offer flexible savings products, they don’t count as Golden Visa deposits. The deposit must remain frozen for the lock period.
- Fake consultants and intermediaries: Applicants often fall for unlicensed “advisors” promising shortcuts. Only registered immigration consultancies or licensed business setup firms should handle applications. Working with verified experts helps ensure compliance with both GDRFA and ICP standards.
- Unofficial thresholds and “special cases”: Many online claims (e.g., AED 500,000 or 1 million deposits) are not officially valid. Always confirm directly via ICP or the UAE Government Portal before transferring funds.
In recent years, UAE authorities have taken strong steps to tighten verification and discourage misleading promotions. This protects legitimate investors and reinforces the credibility of the Golden Visa system—one of the most trusted residency programs globally.
FAQs: Golden Visa Deposit Requirements in 2025
1. Is the AED 2 million deposit refundable after getting the Golden Visa?
No. Under the official GDRFA rules, the deposit cannot be withdrawn or refunded during the Golden Visa period, as the investment must remain intact throughout the residency.
2. Can I get a UAE Golden Visa without making any deposit or investment?
Yes — but it depends on the visa category. The deposit requirement applies to the investor/public investment route. Other categories (like entrepreneur, scientist, exceptional talent) may use non-investment eligibility criteria instead of the deposit route.
3. What happens if I withdraw my deposit early?
According to GDRFA Dubai’s official rules, withdrawing the deposit before the visa’s expiry is prohibited and is likely to lead to visa cancellation or disqualification.
Final Thoughts — Make Your Golden Visa Work for You
So, how much deposit is really required for the UAE Golden Visa in 2025?
The rule stands firm — AED 2,000,000, kept safely in an accredited UAE bank or investment fund for at least two years. That’s the official benchmark for the deposit-based investor route. It’s a straightforward option for those who prefer financial stability and minimal complexity.
But here’s the nuance many miss: this rule applies only to the financial deposit category. The UAE’s Golden Visa framework is broader than most realize — equally open to investors who channel their AED 2 million into property or registered business capital instead of a frozen account. Each path carries its own rhythm of returns, liquidity, and compliance flexibility.
Because each emirate interprets and administers these rules slightly differently, it’s smart to double-check every clause with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) or GDRFA Dubai before you take the plunge. Policies shift quietly, and a small oversight can delay — or derail — an otherwise strong application. Staying informed isn’t just wise; it’s financial self-defense.
If you’d rather have a professional guide through the maze — whether you’re leaning toward the deposit, real estate, or business route — Golden Visa UAE can step in.
Our team has supported over 2,500 successful applicants, handling everything from eligibility checks and documentation to direct coordination with UAE banks and authorities. We make sure every box is ticked, every form is accurate, and every file stands strong under official review.
Reach out today for a free eligibility assessment, and discover which Golden Visa path aligns best with your goals — not just on paper, but in real life.
Recommended Articles:
How Long Does Golden Visa Approval Take? — A Realistic 2025 Timeline
Can I Get UAE Golden Visa Without Investment?
How Long Can I Stay Outside the UAE With a Golden Visa? — What You Need to Know (2025 Guide)
How Golden Visa Helps in International Travel
Can Golden Visa Holders Work Without Company Sponsorship in Dubai?
