Are UAE Golden Visas Possible Without Insurance?

Is Health Insurance Mandatory for a UAE Golden Visa?

Yes—you cannot get a UAE Golden Visa without health insurance. It’s not just a formality; it’s a legal requirement. The UAE government mandates that all residents, including Golden Visa holders, must have valid health insurance coverage throughout their stay.

No insurance? No visa. It’s that simple.

Health insurance isn’t just about ticking a box—it ensures access to high-quality medical care, protects against unexpected medical costs, and is a sign of financial and personal responsibility. Whether you’re applying as an investor, skilled professional, or student, proof of health insurance is a non-negotiable part of your Golden Visa application.

Let’s dive into the details of what type of coverage is accepted and how to secure it.

Do You Absolutely Need Health Insurance for a UAE Golden Visa?

If you want to apply for—or maintain—a UAE Golden Visa, valid health insurance isn’t optional. It’s mandatory.

The UAE government has made it a priority to ensure that all residents, including Golden Visa holders, are protected with proper medical coverage—regardless of whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or highly skilled professional. The goal? To ensure that no resident faces unnecessary financial burden when it comes to healthcare access.

Here’s how the requirement varies across different Emirates:

• Dubai:
  Under the Dubai Health Insurance Law, all residents must have at least a Basic Health Insurance Plan (Essential Benefits Plan). If you’re applying for the Golden Visa, your coverage must be valid at the time of application and renewal.
• Abu Dhabi:
  Health insurance is directly tied to visa renewal.
  • If you’re employed, your company typically provides your policy.
  • If you’re self-employed or an investor, you must arrange your own insurance.
• Other Emirates (Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, etc.):
  Rules may slightly differ, but in most cases, health insurance is a non-negotiable requirement for long-term residency.

Important Tip:
Whether you’re applying or renewing—you need active health insurance to qualify for the UAE Golden Visa. It’s not just for compliance, it’s for your protection and peace of mind.

Can You Apply for a UAE Golden Visa Without Health Insurance?

When applying for the UAE Golden Visa, you may be able to initiate your application without submitting health insurance documents. However, before final approval, the authorities will require proof of valid health insurance that meets the UAE’s residency requirements.

If you don’t submit the necessary documents on time:

• Your application will be delayed or placed on hold.
• It may be rejected entirely if insurance is not provided.
• If you’re already living in the UAE, you could face legal and immigration issues if your coverage lapses.

And here’s the catch:
Even after getting your Golden Visa, you must keep your health insurance valid at all times. A gap in coverage could risk your residency status.

Important Tip:
Health insurance is a mandatory checkpoint, not an optional formality. You can begin the Golden Visa journey without it—but you won’t be approved unless you secure coverage.

Who Pays for the Health Insurance When Applying for a UAE Golden Visa?

It depends on your employment status and visa category:

• Employees & Professionals:
  If you’re employed by a UAE-based company, your employer may provide health insurance as part of your contract. However, coverage often applies only to you, not your family. If your dependents aren’t included, you’ll need to arrange their insurance separately.
• Investors & Business Owners:
  Running your own company or holding an investor visa? In this case, you’re fully responsible for securing your own health insurance, as well as that of your family members under sponsorship.
• Freelancers & Remote Workers:
  If you work independently or with international clients, you must obtain individual health insurance plans that meet UAE visa requirements—both for yourself and any dependents.

Important Tip:
Unless you’re covered by a UAE employer—and even then, only partially—expect to arrange and pay for your own health insurance to qualify for and maintain your UAE Golden Visa.

What Type of Health Insurance Do You Need for a UAE Golden Visa?

To meet Golden Visa requirements, you must have valid health insurance that complies with UAE residency laws. The type of policy you choose depends on your budget, lifestyle, and whether you’re bringing family along.

Here are the main types of coverage to consider:

1. Basic Coverage
   • Offers essential protection like general consultations, emergency treatment, and hospital care.
   • Budget-friendly, but limited in scope.
   • Suitable for individuals with minimal medical needs.
2. Comprehensive Coverage
   • Includes diagnostics, specialist consultations, ongoing treatments, and more.
   • Ideal for professionals or families who want broader health security.
   • Higher cost, but greater peace of mind.
3. Family Plans
   • Tailored to cover your spouse, children, and sometimes even parents.
   • A must-have if you are sponsoring dependents under your Golden Visa.
   • Offers bundled pricing and wider benefits.
4. Company Group Plans
   • Provided by some employers or business groups.
   • Check carefully—many plans do not automatically include family members.
   • May require top-up or separate policies for dependents.
5. Enhanced or Premium Plans
   • Add-ons like dental care, maternity benefits, alternative medicine, or critical illness coverage.
   • Ideal for long-term residents who prioritize full health protection.

Important Tip:
As long as your plan meets the mandatory UAE resident health insurance guidelines, it should be valid for Golden Visa processing. But if you plan to stay long-term, bring family, or want to avoid medical surprises—go for the most comprehensive plan your budget allows.

How to Get Health Insurance for Your UAE Golden Visa

If you don’t yet have health insurance and are planning to apply for the UAE Golden Visa, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you secure the right policy:

Renew Annually
Health insurance is not a one-time process. Keep your policy renewed each year to ensure your residency status remains valid and to avoid any legal or healthcare issues.

Compare Plans and Providers
Explore various insurance companies in the UAE. Look at coverage levels, premiums, network hospitals, and whether the plan offers individual or family protection.

Ensure Emirate-Specific Compliance
Each emirate (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.) may have its own minimum health insurance standards. Verify that the policy meets the legal requirements of the emirate where your visa will be issued.

Purchase the Policy
Once you’ve selected a suitable plan, complete the application, submit required documents, and pay the premium. You’ll receive a digital or physical copy of your insurance certificate.

Include Insurance Details with Visa Application
When applying for your Golden Visa, submit proof of active health insurance along with your other supporting documents.

Final Thoughts – Don’t Delay, Just Get Covered

The UAE Golden Visa offers unmatched benefits—long-term residency, access to global business opportunities, and the privilege to live in one of the most dynamic countries in the world. But none of these advantages are possible without meeting the essential requirements—and health insurance is one of the most important.

So don’t overthink it. Choose a plan that suits your needs, gather the right documents, and move forward confidently.

Need expert help? At Property Visa Dubai, powered by Brightlink Consulting, we’ve successfully assisted over 5,000 applicants with end-to-end Golden Visa processing—including insurance. Reach out to us today and let us simplify the journey for you.