If you are asking, “can my wife and I jointly buy a 2M AED property to both get a Golden Visa?” you are not alone—this is one of the most frequent questions among expatriate couples seeking long-term residency in Dubai. In this guide, we answer this question directly and provide clear, investor-focused insights on how joint property ownership impacts UAE Golden Visa eligibility for couples.
Understanding the UAE Golden Visa for Property Investors
Dubai has evolved into a leading destination for expatriate families and investors, thanks to pro-business policies and premium developments in thriving neighborhoods like Business Bay, Jumeirah Village Circle, and Al Furjan. The UAE Golden Visa program is a significant draw, granting ten-year renewable residency to qualifying real estate investors. One of the principal criteria is a real estate purchase valued at a minimum of AED 2 million, which includes both completed and off-plan properties—boosting long-term residency planning for high-net-worth individuals and families.
Market maturity and consistent growth in Dubai real estate have prompted more expatriates to look beyond short stays and invest in their futures here. The Golden Visa, anchored to property investment, continues to encourage families to settle and build lasting roots in the UAE.
Can Jointly Owned Property Qualify Both Spouses for a Golden Visa?
Now to your core question: can you and your spouse jointly buy a 2M AED property to both independently qualify for a Golden Visa? The answer depends on the ownership structure.
Both spouses can be eligible for their own Golden Visas with a jointly owned property, provided certain conditions are met. The crucial detail is that each applicant must demonstrate an ownership share worth at least AED 2 million. In practice, if a couple jointly purchases a single property priced at AED 2 million, the typical 50/50 split means each person’s share is AED 1 million—below the qualifying threshold for each individual. This means that, in this scenario, only one spouse would independently qualify for the Golden Visa via property investment without additional investments.
However, if the ownership structure or property value enables each spouse’s share to meet or exceed AED 2 million (for example, through co-investing in a property valued at AED 4 million or holding investment shares in multiple eligible properties whose total values individually account to at least AED 2 million per applicant), then both individuals can independently qualify for Golden Visas. UAE immigration authorities review ownership certificates and title deeds to confirm each applicant’s stake meets the requirements.
The 2M AED Property Threshold: Individual vs. Joint Ownership Explained
The AED 2 million property requirement is evaluated per individual applicant, not per joint investment. This means each spouse must have property holdings—whether separately or as a proportional share in shared assets—satisfying the AED 2 million rule. If you purchase two properties, each valued at AED 2 million, or one property above AED 4 million with a 50% share for each spouse, both could qualify independently.
Owning multiple properties is one route: as long as the total value of each applicant’s property holdings (on title deeds) meets or exceeds AED 2 million, they are individually eligible for the Golden Visa. Couples who own property as joint tenants can present their title deeds through the Dubai Land Department for a precise assessment.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Coupled Property Investors
- Choose Your Investment: Select property/properties with a deeded value per owner of AED 2 million or above. Consider areas with strong appreciation and rental demand.
- Secure Proper Ownership Structure: Work with your broker or Danube Properties advisor to ensure your shares are clearly indicated on the title deed—this is critical for eligibility.
- Document Verification: Gather title deeds, passports, Emirates IDs, and, if relevant, marriage certificates.
- Golden Visa Application Submission: Submit your application via the Dubai Land Department or approved government platforms.
- Await Review and Approval: Authorities will confirm ownership and property value, then issue approvals for residency.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them When Applying for a Joint Golden Visa
- Incorrect Ownership Splits: Jointly buying a property at AED 2 million and splitting ownership equally will result in neither spouse alone qualifying. Double-check your intended allocation and the minimum required per applicant before proceeding.
- Overlooking the Value Per Owner: Only the value attributed to each owner on the title deed counts—not the total property value.
- Incomplete Documentation: Missed paperwork can cause delays. Ensure all legal, financial, and identity documentation is available and up to date.
- Assuming Spousal Sponsorship: Relying on one spouse’s eligibility to sponsor the other is a separate process and not the same as both qualifying independently.
Why Choose Danube Properties for Your Golden Visa Investment?
Danube Properties offers direct guidance for investors, especially expatriate couples seeking security and transparency in their real estate journey. With a track record of high-demand launches in fast-growing communities and a deep understanding of the Golden Visa process, Danube’s experienced advisors offer unrivaled support. Whether you are purchasing for lifestyle, investment, or residency, Danube delivers a seamless experience, from property selection to final Golden Visa handover.
In summary, you and your wife can both obtain the UAE Golden Visa via real estate investment only if each of you holds property assets valued at a minimum of AED 2 million—jointly owning a property worth AED 2 million on a 50/50 basis will qualify only one spouse, not both. For tailored advice and opportunities, contact Danube Properties to learn more about making your Golden Visa investment in Dubai.
