Here’s a question that pops up in our conversations with Golden Visa aspirers quite often: “So… how much does it actually cost to renew the UAE Golden Visa?”
It sounds like a straightforward question, right? But if you’ve ever tried Googling it, you’ve probably noticed a dozen different numbers flying around. Some say AED 2,000. Others swear it’s AED 6,000. A few blogs don’t even bother updating since 2021. No wonder people get confused.
So let’s clear the air. This is the 2025, no-nonsense breakdown of Golden Visa renewal costs in the UAE—straight from official government sources like UAE Government Portal and GDRFA Dubai, plus recent reports from publications.
The Short Answer (Because We Know You’re Curious)
In 2025, renewing your Golden Visa will usually set you back between AED 2,800 and AED 4,800.
That’s the sweet spot most people fall into. It covers your application fee, medical test, Emirates ID (valid for 10 years), and a few admin charges. If you’re renewing as a property investor, though, expect it to creep up closer to AED 5,000 (or even more) because of property valuation requirements.
So, no. It’s not pocket change, but it’s also not as scary as some outdated blogs make it sound.
Where That Money Actually Goes
Let’s break it down:
- Application fees: AED 2,800 – AED 3,800
- Medical fitness test: AED 700 – AED 1,000
- Emirates ID (10 years validity): AED 1,150 – AED 1,200
- Typing/admin charges: AED 100 – AED 200
Add it all up and you land in that AED 2,800–4,800 window. Simple, right?
But here’s the catch: the exact figure depends on you. Your visa category, which emirate you’re in, whether you want standard or urgent processing; it all nudges the cost up or down.
Note: These figures are approximate and can differ based on emirate and category. Government authorities issue fees per service card, so applicants may see variations.
Why the Category Matters
Not all Golden Visa holders are treated the same when it comes to renewal. Let me paint you a picture:
- Property Owners: You’ve got a villa worth AED 2 million in Dubai. Congrats. When it’s time to renew, you’ll need a fresh property valuation to prove you still meet the threshold. That’s why this category can sometimes hit AED 5,000.
- Professionals & Skilled Workers: Think doctors, engineers, managers. Your renewal usually stays within the standard AED 2,800–4,800 range, as long as your work contract and degree equivalency certificates are in order.
- Entrepreneurs & Investors: Got a business running in the UAE? You’ll need to show it’s still active and financially sound. Renewal fees don’t spike much, but the paperwork can get heavy—audited accounts, updated trade licenses, and so on.
- Outstanding Students: Bright students with top grades? They’re still in the standard range. You’ll mainly pay for medicals and Emirates ID.
So the cost isn’t wildly different across categories, but the proof of eligibility is what trips most people up.
The Part People Don’t Tell You
Here’s why your neighbor swears he paid less (or more) than you:
- Different emirates, different add-ons. Dubai’s GDRFA might charge a little differently than Abu Dhabi’s ICP.
- Medical test options. A basic one costs less; a more detailed exam costs more.
- Fast-track services. Want it done in two days? You’ll pay extra.
- Category-specific documents. Investors and property owners have extra paperwork that sometimes brings in hidden costs.
So don’t panic if your cost isn’t exactly the same as what you’ve seen online. There’s wiggle room.
How the Renewal Process Works (in Real Life)
If you’re imagining a maze of endless paperwork, good news: the renewal process is actually smoother than the first application. Here’s the play-by-play:
- Apply online via ICP or GDRFA (Dubai residents).
- Upload your documents—passport copy, Emirates ID, proof of eligibility (like property deed or work contract), tenancy contract, and health insurance.
- Take the medical test at an approved center.
- Apply for Emirates ID renewal (10 years validity).
- Pay your fees—this is the AED 2,800–4,800 bit.
- Wait for approval—usually 2–4 weeks, unless you’ve gone for the urgent option.
Compared to the first time you applied, this feels like déjà vu—but faster.
Common Myths, Busted
- “Renewal costs more than applying the first time.” Not true. In fact, it’s often slightly less since you’re not re-submitting every single piece of evidence from scratch.
- “You can skip the medical test.” Nope. A fresh medical fitness test is non-negotiable.
- “Once you’ve got the Golden Visa, you’re set forever.” Well, almost. But yes. You do have to renew every 5 or 10 years depending on your category.
Quick FAQs
Q: How much is the renewal cost of UAE Golden Visa in Dubai?
AED 2,800–4,800, depending on category and service.
Q: Do I need a new Emirates ID?
Yes. It’s part of the package—around AED 1,150 for 10 years.
Q: Can the renewal be rejected?
Rare, but it happens if you don’t meet eligibility anymore (e.g., your property value drops below AED 2 million).
Q: Can I renew early?
Yes, and you should. Start 30–60 days before expiry to avoid any last-minute chaos.
Disclaimer: Renewal fees vary depending on visa category, emirate, and service card published by ICP, GDRFA, or the Dubai Land Department. The figures below reflect common ranges seen by applicants, but official costs may be higher (e.g., property investor renewals in Dubai can exceed AED 9,000). Always check the latest fee schedule on the UAE Government Portal or your emirate’s visa authority.
Final Word
So there you have it. In 2025, the renewal cost of the UAE Golden Visa sits neatly between AED 2,800 and AED 4,800, unless you’re in the property investor camp, where it can edge higher.
At Golden Visa UAE, we’ve walked thousands of applicants through both first-time applications and renewals. If you’d rather not spend your evenings buried in government forms and valuation reports, we’ll do the heavy lifting while you focus on what matters—your life and business in the UAE.
Ready to renew your Golden Visa without the headache? Get in touch with Golden Visa UAE today.
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