To attract global talent and maintain its impressive growth trajectory, the UAE government announced the introduction of the Green Visa in September 2021. This new visa system is part of the first 13 “UAE Projects of the 50” and aims to revolutionize the way expatriates live and work in the country.
UAE Green Visa
Previously, expatriates required sponsorship from an employer to stay and work in the UAE. However, the Green Visa eliminates this requirement, providing a more flexible approach for its holders. The visa also extends the document renewal window from the usual 30 days to a period ranging between 90 to 180 days.
Benefits for Family Members
The Green Visa targets highly skilled individuals, investors, and businessmen. Successful applicants can secure residence permits for their male children up to 25 years of age, with no age limit for unmarried daughters.
Additionally, children with special needs are also eligible for resident permits, regardless of their age. The visa holder can also bring their first-degree relatives, with the residency duration matching that of the original residence holder.
Eligibility Criteria for the UAE Green Visa
The Green Visa offers a 5-year residence track for skilled professionals, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs. It introduces more benefits for expats, including flexible grace periods extending up to six months.
For skilled employees, the requirements include a valid employment contract, classification in the first three occupational levels maintained by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, a minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and a salary not less than AED 15,000.
Freelancers and self-employed individuals need to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), have a specialized diploma or a bachelor’s degree, and an annual income from self-employment for the previous two years not less than AED 360,000.
Investors or partners need to have investment approval and proof of investment, with total investment capital calculated and approval from competent local authorities mandatory.
Abu Dhabi Green Visa
The Abu Dhabi Green Visa is a long-term residency visa that allows sponsorship of sons up to the age of 25 and unmarried daughters, regardless of their age. It offers a wide range of visa options for investors, partners, freelancers, and professionals.
About UAE Green Visa
The UAE Green Visa was first announced on 5th September 2021 and underwent several amendments in 2022 to make it more attractive for all stakeholders. As of 2023, the cost of the Green Visa is AED 5,260, including the entry permit of AED 1,035.
The UAE Green Visa is a step towards attracting global talent and fostering economic growth. As more details are released, potential applicants can look forward to a more flexible and inclusive visa system in the UAE.
