How to Secure a UAE Golden Visa with a Bank Deposit in 2025
You know where you are, right? The Golden Visa in the UAE is a long-term residency program that allows you to live, work, and flourish in the UAE for 10 years, renewable, without a UAE-based sponsor. Setting a fixed bank deposit in the amount of AED 2 million (approx $545,000) in a government-approved bank in the UAE, you and your family can experience a tax-free regime, as well as a high standard of life. If you’re 55 or older, there’s a 5-year residency visa on offer with an AED 1 million deposit. In this guide to the 2025 guide, I will show you how it is done, who is eligible, what you can get, and how to get all the necessary right takes for your UAE Golden Visa by bank deposit to go effortlessly, just as I have helped to manage for many of my clients.
Why the UAE Golden Visa by Bank Deposit Is a Smart Choice
UAE Golden Visa, introduced in 2019, is a game-changer for investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals looking for permanent residency in an investor-friendly economy. Unlike any other visa, it does not have the sponsor requirement, you do not need family sponsorship, and there are no stay restrictions, which means you are allowed to live outside the UAE for more than 6 months and still keep your residency permit. In 2022, the UAE reduced the investment requirement to AED 2 million to make the bank deposit Golden Visa more accessible.
Why should I take a fixed bank deposit? It’s an investment that is secure with guaranteed returns, great for people who want to invest and have a low-risk investment as opposed to real estate investment or investment funds. You put AED 2 million (or AED 1 million if 55+) in a bank here in the UAE, earn interest (which is typically 2-5% p.a), and get a 10-year residency visa. This way is easy, demanding less effort than supervising the properties or a business setup in UAE. And it dovetails with wealth migration objectives by providing for tax optimization in a zero tax location.”
Who Can Apply for a Bank Deposit Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is when you deposit a bank open to investors who meet specific requirements. Here is what you will need to qualify in 2025:
- Investment Amount: Deposit AED 2 million (around $545,000)into a fixed bank deposit for a 10-year residency visa or AED 1 million for a 5-year residency visa if you’re over aged 55.
- Bank Requirements: You will need to bank with a UAE government-recognized bank such as First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), RAK Bank, Ajman Bank, or Al Maryah Community Bank. “But for others, there are alternatives for example, Wakala deposits or sukuk bonds.”
- Deposit Term: The deposit has to be locked in for a minimum of 1-2 years, as per the bank policy. You can’t take your money out of the country without jeopardizing your ability to qualify for the Golden Visa.
- Documentation: A copy of a valid passport, health insurance card (for a period of at least 1 year), proof of legality of funds, bank deposit confirmation letter, house rental agreement, or proof of accommodation.
- Due Diligence: Successfully completed security and financial compliance checks with the Federal Authority for Identity.
- Family Sponsor: Bring your wife, kids, and even parents to apply, satisfying visa financial needs for sponsorship renewal of family members.
Steps for UAE Golden Visa Through Bank Deposit
If you follow these steps, which have been updated for 2025, applying for a UAE Golden Visa through a bank deposit is easy:
Step 1: Research UAE Banks:
Above all, compare the UAE banks like FAB, ADCB, or RAK Bank about the terms of fixed deposit. Check the interest rate (2-5% per annum) and make sure the bank is government-assisted. For example, you can use Ajman Bank’s Wakala deposits, which are available at attractive rates.
Step 2: Bank Account:
This can also be done through PRO services or a business setup consultant in Dubai. You will need a copy of a valid passport, proof of address, as well as some basic financial documents. This process typically lasts 3-5 days.
Step 3: Your fixed deposit:
Deposit AED 2M or AED 1M (if you’re 55+) into the bank. ‘Sign and periodically renew an agreement for 1–2 years, including, as options, instruments such as sukuk bonds, to provide for flexibility.
Step 4: Obtain a Deposit Confirmation Letter:
The bank issues a receipt letter that confirms your AED 2 million deposit. This is important for getting the Golden Visa.
Step 5: Apply Through ICP:
Submit your application through the ICP UAE Smart app or ICP. Submit the following documents using the upload section: a valid copy of your passport, health insurance card, bank deposit receipt, accommodation evidence, and Due Diligence forms. Pay charges (approximately AED 3,860 per person).
Step 6: Full Due Diligence:
The Federal Authority for Identity checks criminal records (1-2 weeks). And with the help of a business setup consultant in Dubai, your paperwork can satisfy UAE banking requirements.
Step 7: Collect Pre-Approval:
We give you 2 weeks after pre-approval to place a deposit if you haven’t already.
Step 8: Get Your Residency Visa:
Once approved, you and your family members will get a 10-year residency visa (or a 5-year one for 55+), renewable as long as the investment is held.
What Makes Fixed Bank Deposits a Low-Risk Investment for Residency?
The fixed bank deposit for the UAE Golden Visa is an unmatched, low-risk investment. This is why it is a safe choice:
- Peace of Mind: AED 2 million is invested in an interest-bearing account (annual interest of 2-5%) free from any restriction and guaranteed by the UAE banking system. There’s no market volatility, unlike real estate or investment funds.
- Government Oversight: UAE government-backed banks such as First Abu Dhabi Bank or Al Maryah Community Bank adhere to stringent UAE banking laws, making sure your money is protected.
- No City-issued Fighter: The bank deals with everything after a deposit is made; no other management is necessary. Compare this to investment in property in the UAE, which requires attending to tenants, maintenance, etc.
- Flexibility: You can select terms that match your investment objectives, such as Wakala deposits or sukuk bonds (1-2 years).
- Loan Facility: Few banks provide loans against your FD, which can be used for company formation in Dubai or other purposes.
Comparing Bank Deposit and Real Estate Golden Visa Options
Choosing between a bank deposit Golden Visa and real estate investment depends on your priorities. Here’s a detailed comparison:
| Feature | Bank Deposit Golden Visa | Real Estate Golden Visa |
| Investment Amount | AED 2 million (or AED 1 million if 55+) | AED 2 million (or AED 750,000 for 2-year visa) |
| Risk | Low (guaranteed returns, no volatility) | Moderate (market risks, property management) |
| Returns | Interest (2-5% annually) | Rental income, property value appreciation |
| Effort | Minimal (bank-managed) | High (manage tenants, maintenance) |
| Eligibility | Fixed deposit in UAE banks | Property in Freehold Zones, off-plan properties |
| Family Sponsorship | Yes (spouse, children, parents) | Yes (spouse, children, parents) |
| Flexibility | No stay restrictions, no sponsor requirement | No stay restrictions, no sponsor requirement |
| Renewal | Maintain fixed deposit | Maintain property ownership |
The bank deposit visa is ideal for those prioritizing secure investment and ease, while real estate suits those seeking higher returns through rental income. A friend chose a fixed deposit for its simplicity, then used PRO services to explore business setup in UAE, leveraging the UAE’s business-friendly policies.
How Does Business Setup in UAE Complement Your Golden Visa?
Louvre 2 Pays Afrique 1 golden ticket is sponsored by One Africa Project, Business Setup in UAE, and Golden Visa by Bank Deposit. Here’s how:
- Incorporation of a company in Dubai: You are also able to set up a business in a Freehold Zone, such as AREA 2071 or HUB71, without a local partner (due to no sponsor’s directions) and never need to have a local sponsor, as seen by a 10 years residency visa.
- Hire PRO Services: Let the PRO services manage all your licensing, visa processing, and compliance for business setup in Dubai and save time and effort.
- Tax Optimization: The tax-free condition and zero personal income taxes in the UAE ensure that you enjoy the maximum profit on your fixed deposits and business properties.
- Wealth Transfer: The Golden Visa supports wealth transfer, enabling you to invest in UAE banks while expanding your business in a residency hub in the Gulf region.
- Family Benefits: Your family benefits as the family-sponsored visa of your spouse (or partner) and children make them part of your business setup in UAE, and they can enjoy their life in UAE, UAE educational system and facility, as well as Esaad Privilege Card benefits.
Key Considerations for Maintaining Your Golden Visa
Before opting for a UAE Golden Visa through bank deposit, check these boxes to make it a successful choice in the long term:
- Withdrawal Limits: AED 2 million is locked for full deposit tenure. Early withdrawal incurs penalties and loss of eligibility for a Golden Visa.
- Interest rates: Compare UAE banks for best interest rates. For instance, FAB might be giving 4% for 2 years, while RAK Bank offers 3%.
- Visa Renewal: Maintain your fixed deposit to renew the 10-year residency visa. Read UAE Golden Visa 2025 news on ICP for changes.
- Costs: Estimate around AED 3,860 per person for visa issuance, $220 for medical examination, $400 for health insurance, + $1,000 for document translation.
- Bank: Select a reliable bank that is recognized by the UAE government to minimize the risk. Ensure adherence to the banking regulations in UAE.
Due Diligence: Double-check check everything, including your passport copy and bank deposit confirmation, is correct in order to satisfy the Federal Authority for Identity checks.
Frequently Asked Questions About UAE Golden Visa by Bank Deposit
Q1: What is the minimum deposit for a UAE Golden Visa in 2025?
You need AED 2 million ($545,000) for a 10-year residency visa or AED 1 million for a 5-year residency visa if 55 or older, in a fixed bank deposit.
Q2: Which banks are best for a bank deposit Golden Visa?
Top UAE banks include First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), RAK Bank, Ajman Bank, and Al Maryah Community Bank, offering Wakala deposits and Sukuk bonds.
Q3: What are the risks of a fixed deposit for a Golden Visa?
The fixed bank deposit is low-risk, but withdrawal restrictions mean you can’t access funds for 1-2 years. Early withdrawal may lead to penalties and loss of Golden Visa eligibility.
Q4: How long does the Golden Visa application take in 2025?
The process takes 4-6 weeks, including Due Diligence and approval. Visit ICP for UAE Golden Visa 2025 updates on timelines.
Q5: Can I sponsor my family with a bank deposit Golden Visa?
Yes, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and parents for family residency visas, meeting financial requirements.
Conclusion: Begin Your UAE Residency Journey Today
The UAE Golden Visa through bank deposit is a secure investment that opens doors to a 10-year residency in a tax-free jurisdiction. By depositing AED 2 million (or AED 1 million if 55+) in a UAE government-recognized bank, you gain no stay restrictions, family sponsorship, and access to the UAE’s high standard of living. The process is simple: choose a bank, place your fixed deposit, and apply via ICP UAE Smart. Plus, you can explore business setups in the UAE to grow your wealth in a business-friendly environment.
Ready to take the next step? Use PRO services or a business setup consultant in Dubai to streamline your UAE Golden Visa by bank deposit application. Start your journey to Dubai or Abu Dhabi today, enjoying tax optimization and secure investment. Contact a trusted advisor to explore Golden Visa eligibility: fixed bank deposits and make the UAE your home!
