Nurses are a healthcare heartbeat, dedicating their lives to care for others. On Nurses Day, May 12, 2025, Dubai celebrates their relentless commitment to give them some extraordinary - Golden Visa. For the first time, nurses over 15 years in the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) are now eligible for residence for 10 years, recognizing their significant contribution to the city's healthcare excellence.

Following the directions of the Crown Prince of Dubai, His Highness H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the initiative honors his important role in the dedication of nurses and improving the lives of patients. Dubai has long offered a Golden Visa for top professionals, and now, nurses join this honorable list - the true will of their value in society.

This step not only celebrates International Nurses Day, but also empowered the healthcare heroes to continue their significant work, ensuring that the community receives proper care. The belief of the Nurses of Dubai, who dedicate their lives to the welfare of others, illuminates the best, and illustrates the commitment to support.

Sheikh Hamdan Introduces 10-Year Golden Visas for UAE Nurses

On International Nurses Day, May 12th 2025, Dubai announced another significant endeavour. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of the UAE, made a significant announcement for nurses serving under the Dubai Health Authority.

The announcement of the Golden Visa for thousands of nurses who have spent over 15 years working patients at government hospitals and private clinics came from. Qualified nurses are granted 10 years residency under the Golden Visa in UAE. It’s not just residency; it gives nurses 10 years of stability, opportunities and the freedom to live in the emirate without a sponsor.

This step shows Dubai's appreciation and belief: "We see your hard work, and we value it." It demonstrates the dedication of the government to maintain and support serious health professionals who contribute to public health in the UAE and protect it.

UAE Expands Long-Term Residency Program

With this update, the UAE has expanded its Golden Visa Initiative, which was originally introduced in 2019 to provide a 10-year residence to selected foreign nationals. This visa provides a way to long-term security for professionals who actively contribute to the development of the country.

The program now welcomes a variety of categories, including newcomers such as:

• Skilled professionals in healthcare and education

• Investors, entrepreneurs and researchers

• Talented workers in essential sectors such as technology, creative sectors and gaming

Golden visa holders can live, work and invest in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor, and also have the option to sponsor their family members.

How to Apply For a UAE Golden Visa For Nurses?

Nurses are among the frontline heroes. The definition of “Frontline Heroes” is expected to cover a number of medical-related sectors, spanning nurses, doctors alongside other qualified healthcare professionals like pharmacologists and laboratory technicians among others that are recognized by the Frontline Heroes Office. With an emergency such as the COVID-19 pandemic, what we appreciate from them is invaluable and, most importantly, it will save lives.

In general, nurses are required to meet the following requirements:

• Valid employment contract: Must have a valid employment contract in the UAE.

• Educational qualifications: Must have at least a diploma in nursing from a recognized university. Diplomas usually require certification.

• Professional license: Must hold a valid professional practice license from the UAE health authority (e.g., Dubai Health Authority - DHA, Department of Health - DOH Abu Dhabi, or Ministry of Health and Prevention - MOHAP).

• Good conduct: Provide a certificate confirming good conduct and behavior.

Related Article: UAE Golden Visa Salary Requirements: Eligibility & Step by Step Guide

How to Apply

You can usually apply through the following channels:

ICP website (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security): This is the main federal portal for visa and citizenship services. Nurses can often apply directly online: https://icp.gov.ae.

GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) for Dubai: Residents of Dubai can submit their requests through GDRFA channels: https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en

TAMM Portal (Abu Dhabi): Nurses in Abu Dhabi can use the TAMM portal for various government services.

AMER Centers (Dubai) / Accredited Typing Centers: These centers provide assistance in submitting applications.

Through your employer/PRO: Many hospitals and healthcare facilities have a Public Relationship Officer (PRO) that guides employees eligible through the Golden Visa process.

Important Considerations

Accuracy: Submit truthful and accurate information in your application.

Official Sources: Remember to visit the ICP, GDRFA (for Dubai) and other government official sites for the latest up-to-date information, requirements and procedures. Rules and eligibility criteria may vary.

Processing Time: Processing time may vary.

Certification: Make sure that all educational certificates are properly certified, as this step is important.

Employer Support: Coordination with your employer; They may have a structured process for the Golden Visa application for nurses or provide assistance.

Further Reading: How to Get Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Dubai, UAE (A Guide)

Benefits of Golden Visa for Nurses

The Golden Visa for Nurses offers qualified nurses significant benefits, such as:

• Extended residency of 10 years.

• Flexibility to change jobs without affecting residency status.

• Opportunity to start a business or invest in Dubai.

• Independence from sponsors and continuous renewal.

• Permission to sponsor family members including spouse, children and parents.

The Golden Visa serves as a gateway for dedicated nurses in Dubai to develop both their careers and personal lives in the city, while enjoying exclusive benefits.

Teachers And Educators Are Also Included

A new 10-Year Golden Visa scheme has been launched in Dubai by The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) for private education professionals. This is a visa that focuses on teachers who have shown excellent performance in their studies and have made significant contributions to raising the quality of education. This category also allows for family sponsorship.

Ras Al Khaimah has launched a similar visa for teachers, principals and senior staff in private schools, supported by the Ras Al Khaimah Knowledge Department.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What are “frontline heroes” and why are they recognized?

"Frontline Heroes" includes nurses, medical assistants, lab technicians and other healthcare workers. The UAE recognizes them for their important role in public health, especially during an emergency like COVID-19. The Golden Visa rewards their dedication with long-term accommodation and security.

Q2. Can Golden Visa holders invest in healthcare or start a business in Dubai?

Yes! Registered nurses and other health care workers with a Golden Visa can now start businesses, invest or work in various sectors without losing their residency rights. This is part of Dubai’s approach for attracting skilled foreign workers, and furthering its economy.

Q3. Does the Golden Visa allow family sponsorship?

Certainly! Golden visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children and parents as well. This is in order for nurses and teachers to have the opportunity of long-term stability in the UAE, while not needing to be separated from their families.

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