In this blog post, we will explore everything you need to know about the UAE Golden Visa for nurses – including eligibility requirements, benefits, and the application process.
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program that grants foreign professionals, investors, and skilled workers the right to live, work, or study in the UAE. It is part of the UAE’s strategy to attract and retain top talent in vital sectors like healthcare, education, and technology.
Amendment in Golden Visa for Nurses
On International Nurses Day (12 May), Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, announced that nurses who have served in the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) for 15 years or more will be eligible for the Golden Visa. This initiative is a gesture of appreciation for frontline workers, especially for their service during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why Does This Matter?
Nurses are central to improving healthcare quality and patient outcomes. The UAE Golden Visa program aims to:
- Acknowledge and reward nurses and healthcare workers
- Provide long-term residency assurance
- Ensure professional growth and family security
Key Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa for Nurses
Nurses who qualify for the Golden Visa can enjoy several exclusive benefits:
- Residency visa renewable for 5 or 10 years
- Multiple-entry visa valid for 6 months during processing
- No need for a local sponsor
- Stay outside the UAE for over 6 months without visa cancellation
- Family sponsorship – spouse, children (any age), and unlimited domestic workers
- Family members can remain in the UAE in case of the visa holder’s death
Eligibility Criteria for Nurses
Nurses fall under the "frontline heroes" category, which also includes:
- Medical assistants
- Lab technicians
- Pharmacologists
- Other healthcare professionals approved by the Frontline Heroes Office
The requirements for nurses to qualify for the Golden Visa are:
- Valid Employment Contract: Must be employed in a UAE healthcare facility
- Educational Qualifications: Must have a diploma in nursing from an accredited and attested institution
- Professional License: Must hold a valid license from any of the following:
- DHA – Dubai Health Authority
- DOH – Department of Health, Abu Dhabi
- MOHAP – Ministry of Health and Prevention (other emirates)
- Good Conduct Certificate: Required for professional and personal integrity
How to Apply for a UAE Golden Visa as a Nurse
Nurses can apply for the Golden Visa through several channels:
- TAMM Portal (Abu Dhabi): For Abu Dhabi government services
- AMER Centers / Typing Centers: Visit in person to apply through approved centers
- Through Your Employer or PRO: Hospitals often assist with applications through their Public Relations Officers
