ICP (UAE) (ICP) Definition

Also known as:ICPFederal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security

Definition

The UAE federal authority that issues residence visas, including the golden visa, and Emirates ID cards.

In Dubai, residence matters are also handled by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). Your adviser will confirm which authority handles your application.

Where ICP (UAE) comes up

Programme
UAE Golden Visa
UAE Golden Visa: residence rights for qualifying investors from AED 2,000,000, typical processing of 2–4 weeks, no minimum stay, and family inclusion.

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Plan your next step

Compare live programmes on eligibility, timelines and family rules, check where you qualify, then read the country guides before you book a paid 60-minute consultation.

Browse live programmes
Residency and citizenship by investment programmes that are currently open, with the qualifying routes for each country.
Compare programmes
See two or more programmes side by side: investment routes, processing stages, family inclusion and residence rules.
Check your eligibility
Answer a few questions about your nationality, family and goals to see which programmes may fit.
Read the country guides
Plain guides to each programme: requirements, documents, due diligence and the steps from application to approval.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I see this term in practice?

Follow the related programme and guide links on this page to see how the term applies to live programmes.

Who can explain how this applies to me?

An adviser can explain how the term affects your application. Book a consultation or send us a message.

What is investment migration?

Investment migration is the legal process of obtaining citizenship or residency in a foreign country through a qualifying financial contribution — such as a government fund donation, real estate purchase, or business investment. Programmes are offered by sovereign governments and are fully legal, internationally recognised, and increasingly common among UHNW and HNW individuals and families.

What is the difference between residency and citizenship by investment?

Residence by investment gives you the right to live in a country; citizenship by investment makes you a national with a passport and full civic rights.

Residence permits usually need renewing and may carry stay requirements, while citizenship is generally permanent. Many families combine the two to cover different needs.

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