UAE Green Visa – Eligibility, Benefits, and Application Process
To attract highly skilled professionals and create a more agile labor market, the UAE has launched the Green Visa. This new residence visa category permits skilled professionals, employees, and investors to freely live and work in the UAE. UAE Green Visa provides the facility to live without the requirement of a company sponsor. Unlike the traditional residency permits, the Green Visa has a validity of five years. It aids the nation’s goal of becoming a global business center.
What is the UAE Green Visa?
The UAE Green Visa is a form of self-sponsored residence permit. It allows expatriates to sponsor themselves and their family members without the need for a local employer or any UAE national as a sponsor. This change captures the intent of the UAE government to focus on the country’s economic diversification. It also encourages skilled professionals, talent, and foreign direct investment from all corners of the globe.
Who is Eligible for the Green Visa?
The Green Visa is targeted at three primary groups:
1. Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals
To qualify, you must:
- Possess a freelance permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
- Hold at least a bachelor’s degree or a relevant diploma.
- Provide evidence of self-employment income of at least AED 360,000 for the past two years or demonstrate financial solvency.
2. Skilled Employees are Eligible for the UAE Green Visa
Members of a skilled group must:
- Be in occupational category 1 to 3 as per the MoHRE classification.
- Possess a monthly wage of no less than AED 15,000.
- Quoed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Have a binding employment contract in a specialized area such as law, science, education, technology, etc.
3. Investors and Partners
This category is for individuals who are either starting a business or have an existing business and would like to invest or grow their business. These criteria include the following:
- Acceptance of the investment along with the required permits or licenses.
- Evidence of business as well as investment resources.
Key Features and Benefits of UAE Green Visa:
5-Year Validity: Extended residency period as compared to the usual 2-3 year work visas.
Self-Sponsorship: Employer or local sponsor is not required for the visa.
Family Sponsorship: Spouse, children (up to 25 years for sons, daughters of any age), and domestic workers can be sponsored.
Grace Period: An extensive 180-day grace period after visa cancellation or expiry.
Renewable: This visa can be renewed for another 5 years if the set criteria are met.
Required Documents:
While the requirements may differ based on the emirate or application center. Generally, you will need the following documents for a UAE Green Visa:
- Valid passport (containing a validity of at least 6 months)
- Passport-sized photograph
- Educational qualifications (attested degree or diploma)
- Freelance permit (if applicable)
- Employment contract (if skilled worker)
- Proof of income or financial solvency
- Tenancy contract
- Health insurance documents
- Entry permit or existing residency visa (if already in the UAE)
Application Process:
Step 1: Obtain the Necessary Permits:
Skilled professionals should ensure their job category falls under the eligible occupational levels. Every self-employed/ freelancer needs to start the process with a freelance permit from MoHRE.
Step 2: Submit the Application:
Applications can be submitted through the ICP or the GDRFA’s website. Ensure selection of the Green Visa category. Follow with document upload and payment of the fee.
Step 3: Receive Entry Permit
Those outside of the UAE will be approved for a 60-day entry permit to complete the visa process.
Step 4: Complete Medical & Emirates ID
Mark completion of a medical fitness test alongside the Emirates ID application.
Where To Submit Your Application for a UAE Green Visa?
Submissions can be made via:
- ICP Portal
- GDRFA – Dubai Portal
- RAKEZ for the Northern Emirates
- ADRO – Abu Dhabi Residents Office
Costs and Associated Fees:
While costs may differ for the UAE Green Visa. It can be different due to the service provider and the Emirate jurisdiction, which typically encompass:
- Entry permit application fee
- Visa approval application fee
- Medical examination
- Emirates ID application fee
- Health insurance premiums
- Estimated total: AED 2,000 to AED 3,500 (does not include optional fast-truck services).
FAQs:
Q: Does the Green Visa permit family sponsorship?
Yes. Immediate family members are permitted, including dependents and domestic staff.
Q: What happens if my visa is canceled or allowed to expire?
You are entitled to a 180-day window of time to renew or adjust your plans.
Q: Can I change my tourist visa to a Green Visa?
Yes, so long as you fulfill the necessary conditions and provide all required documents.
Q: Is there a lower age limit for children under sponsorship?
Yes, sons up to 25 years and unmarried daughters of any age are eligible.
Concluding Remarks:
The UAE Green Visa is a pioneering scheme that gives professionals and business owners independent control of their activities and personal life. It fosters the United Arab Emirates (UAE’s image as a leading international business hub, while also accommodating the lifestyle needs of people. The Visa could be the right option for skilled workers, investors, and freelancers planning to settle in the UAE.
