As of October 3rd, 2022, the new Green Visa Residency is now available. This brand new residence visa category allows its holder to sponsor themselves for five years in the UAE (without the need of an employer).
The Green Visa is designed to offer a 5-year residency visa to skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, investors and freelancers. To qualify for the Green Visa there are certain criteria the applicant must meet, eligibility depends on salary and qualification, this new visa is a good option for established freelance workers, small business owners, teachers, medical workers and middle managers to qualify for longer-term visa status for the first time.
Green Visa Benefits
Additional benefits for Green Visa holders include the ability to facilitate the residence of family members, the age of children who may be sponsored has been raised to 25 years (previously 18 years), with no age limit for unmarried daughters. Green Residences holders are allowed to issue residence permits for their first-degree relatives, the duration of the residency of family members shall be the same duration as the sponsor residence holder. Another benefit is longer flexible grace periods that will extend up to 6 months to stay in the country after the residence permit is cancelled or expired.
Green Visa Categories
Green Residence visa criteria for freelancers and self-employed.
You will need to apply for a freelance/ self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), be degree educated, and have an annual income of Dhs360,000.
Green Residence visa criteria for skilled employees
If you wish to apply for your own five-year visa, instead of using the one from your employer, you will need to show a valid employment contract with a minimum salary of Dhs15,000 (per month). Your employment visa should be deemed a first, second or third occupational level as per the MOHRE. You will also need a degree or equivalent.
Green Residence visa criteria for investors
In order to get a five-year investor or partner visa, you will need to show both government approval and proof of the investment. And if you have multiple licences, they will take the total sum of your invested money into consideration.
How to Apply for a Green Visa?
If you would like assistance with applying or assessing your eligibility to obtain the Green Visa, our bespoke Green Visa Service will guide you through the application and issuance of the Green Visa. Simply click to contact us for a free consultation.