United Arab Emirates Visas

Visa options, requirements, and timelines for Canadian professionals moving to United Arab Emirates.

Golden Visa (10-Year Residence)

A long-term residence visa that does not require a local sponsor. Available to investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talent, and exceptional students.

Requirements

•Skilled professionals: Minimum salary of AED 30,000/month (C$11,000) + bachelor's degree or equivalent
•Investors: AED 2 million+ in property or business investment
•Entrepreneurs: Approval from an accredited UAE incubator or previous startup valued at AED 500,000+
•Specialized talent: Recognized achievement in science, art, culture, or sports

Processing Time:2–4 weeks processing once documents submitted

Green Visa (5-Year Self-Sponsored)

A residence visa for skilled employees, freelancers, and investors that does not require employer sponsorship.

Requirements

•Skilled employees: Minimum salary of AED 15,000/month + bachelor's degree
•Freelancers: Valid freelance permit from a UAE authority
•Must hold valid health insurance

Processing Time:2–3 weeks processing

Standard Employment Visa

The traditional employer-sponsored work visa. Your employer handles the process and acts as your visa sponsor.

Requirements

•Job offer from a UAE-registered company
•Medical fitness test upon arrival
•Employer handles labor card and residence visa
•Employment contract must be registered with MOHRE

Processing Time:2–4 weeks processing

Tax Overview

Tax implications for United Arab Emirates

Income Tax Rate

0% — no personal income tax

The UAE charges zero personal income tax. There is a 9% corporate tax on business profits above AED 375,000 (introduced in 2023), and a 5% VAT on most goods and services. For Canadians, this means dramatically higher take-home pay, though you must still manage your Canadian tax departure properly.

✓Zero personal income tax on employment and freelance income
✓5% VAT on goods and services (lower than Canada's GST/HST)
✓9% corporate tax on profits above AED 375,000 (businesses only)
✓No Canada-UAE tax treaty — careful planning needed to avoid double taxation
✓Must file Canadian departure return and sever ties properly
✓End-of-service gratuity: employers owe 21 days' salary per year of service

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