What documents are required for married couples applying for the Golden Visa?

For a spouse to be included under a Golden Visa or to apply for their own based on the marriage, the following documentation is required:

1. Marriage Certificate & Legalization: The marriage certificate must be fully legalized to be recognized in the UAE. The standard sequence is:
- Country of Origin: Legalization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the UAE Embassy.
- In the UAE: Legalization by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
- Translation: A legal Arabic translation by a Ministry of Justice-certified translator.

Alternative Proof (If Certificate is Unavailable): If the original certificate cannot be provided, you must obtain a formal letter from your consulate. To meet GDRFA's strict 2026 automated verification standards, the letter must begin with the phrasing: “This is to confirm...” or “This is to clarify...” This letter must also be attested by MOFA and translated into Arabic.

2. National ID Requirements: Applicants from specific nationalities, including Iran, Pakistan, Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan, must provide a copy of their National ID from their home country. The ID must be valid (not expired) and accompanied by a legal translation if the original is not in Arabic or English.

3. Mandatory Medical Insurance: As per the latest federal regulations, medical insurance is a prerequisite for all residence permit approvals. Costs have been restructured as follows:
- Basic Federal Package: Starts from approximately 320 AED to 950 AED per year (ideal for meeting minimum legal requirements).
- Comprehensive Plans: Range from 3,000 AED to 12,000+ AED, offering wider hospital networks and international coverage.

5. Other Visa Categories: The documentation requirements for the spouse (attestation and relationship proof) remain identical when applying for the 5-Year Retirement Visa or the 2-Year Investor Visa.