UAE's Golden Visa Salary Threshold Excludes Allowances

UAE-based professionals seeking the Golden Visa must now demonstrate a minimum basic monthly salary of Dh30,000. This new requirement, according to immigration experts and affected residents, does not account for allowances or additional benefits. The policy aims to ensure that visa applicants possess a stable and substantial income to qualify for long-term residency.

The decision to exclude allowances from the salary calculation has sparked concern among many potential applicants. For those who previously relied on a combination of base salary and allowances to meet visa criteria, this change may necessitate adjustments to their income structure or eligibility strategy.

Immigration authorities have clarified that the Dh30,000 threshold is a strict baseline, intended to attract highly skilled and financially stable individuals to the UAE. This step is part of broader efforts to refine the visa program and align it more closely with economic goals and labor market needs.

The Golden Visa initiative, which grants long-term residency to expatriates, aims to boost the UAE's attractiveness as a global talent hub. The policy changes reflect an ongoing adjustment to the program's parameters, aiming to ensure that it meets its intended objectives of fostering economic growth and innovation.

As the policy rolls out, individuals and companies are advised to review their compensation structures carefully. Those affected by the change may need to reassess their salary packages to meet the new requirements. The focus on basic salary underscores the UAE's commitment to attracting high-caliber professionals who contribute significantly to the economy.

The shift highlights the evolving nature of immigration policies in the UAE and their direct impact on expatriates. It signals a move towards a more streamlined and transparent visa application process, where the emphasis is placed on clear financial benchmarks rather than variable components of compensation.
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