UAE Green Visa: A 2024 guide
On October 3, 2022, the United Arab Emirates introduced a comprehensive reform of its visa system, launching new entry and residency permits. This initiative, aimed at enhancing the UAE’s job market competitiveness and stability for residents, was a strategic move to attract and retain global talents. Key amendments included simplifying the Golden Residence Scheme, broadening eligibility, and catering to a diverse group of individuals such as investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, and professionals. The Green Visa, a highlight of this reform, offers a 5-year residency to skilled workers, freelancers, and self-employed individuals without the need for a local sponsor. It also provides improved family sponsorship rules, allowing for easier sponsorship of spouse and children, and extending the age limit for children to be included under their parent’s visa.
This article provides an in-depth analysis and a detailed guide on how to navigate the new opportunities and benefits offered by the Green Visa.
Background
The Green Visa diverges from the traditional employment-dependent residency model, historically prevalent in the Gulf region, by offering self-sponsorship to foreign nationals. It’s designed to provide greater stability, flexibility, and long-term residency options for expatriates.
Distinguishing itself from other UAE visas, the Green Visa offers several unique features. Unlike traditional employment visas, which require employer sponsorship and typically have a three-year validity, the Green Visa allows individuals to sponsor themselves for a period of up to five years. This independence from employer sponsorship not only empowers expatriates with more control over their residency status but also provides enhanced security and flexibility, especially for those looking to pursue entrepreneurial ventures or freelance opportunities in the UAE.
Benefits of the Green Visa
The introduction of the UAE Green Visa in 2022 represents a significant step by the government to attract and retain exceptional talent. Some of the key benefits of the programme include:
- Extended residency and flexibility: The Green Visa offers a 5-year residency track, which is a major improvement over the standard 2-3 year visas. This longer duration provides greater stability and flexibility for expatriates living and working in the UAE.
- Simplified requirements: The application process and requirements for all residence types, including the Green Visa, have been simplified with a more user-friendly and straightforward online application system through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website and reduced documentation requirements to speed up the application process.
- Grace period extension: A notable feature of the Green Visa is the extended grace period of up to 6 months after the cancellation or expiration of the residence permit. This allows individuals more time to either amend their status, obtain another residence visa, or plan their departure from the UAE without incurring fines.
- Enhanced family benefits: The Green Visa facilitates the process of bringing family members to the UAE, including spouses and children. The age limit for children under family sponsorship has been increased to 25 years, and there is no age limit for sponsoring unmarried daughters. Children of determination are also eligible for residence permits, regardless of age.
- First-degree relative sponsorship: Holders of the Green Visa are also permitted to sponsor their first-degree relatives, with the residency duration for family members aligning with that of the primary visa holder.
Eligibility criteria for the UAE Green Visa
The eligibility criteria for this visa caters to three distinct groups: Skilled workers, freelancers, and self-employed individuals. As of 2024, the following are the key requirements:
Skilled employees
- Applicants must have a valid employment contract in the UAE.
- They should be classified in the first, second, or third occupational level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation classification.
- The minimum educational qualification required is a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- The applicant’s salary should not be less than AED 15,000.
Freelancers and self-employed individuals
- Applicants should have a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- A bachelor’s degree or a specialised diploma is the minimum educational requirement.
- For the previous two years, the annual income from self-employment should not be less than AED 360,000, or the applicant must prove financial solvency throughout their stay in the country.
Investors or Partners
- This category is for those establishing or participating in commercial activities.
- Requirements include approval and proof of an investment of AED 1million.
- If the investor (partner) has more than one licence, the total invested capital will be calculated.
- Approval of the competent local authorities is mandatory.
Application process
You can apply for the UAE Green Visa through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website or its mobile application. The following is a step-by-step guide:
- Begin by visiting the GDRFA website or opening the GDRFA app on your mobile device.
- Use your UAE Pass or username to log into the smart services system. This secure login ensures that your personal information and application details are protected.
- Once logged in, click on the “Service” section to explore the available visa services.
- In the service section, find and select “entry permits”.
- Look for the option labeled “issuance of green visa” and select it to start your application.
- Depending on your qualification and professional background, choose the appropriate subcategory such as skilled worker, investor, partner, or freelance work.
- Fill in all the required fields on the application form with accurate information and attach the necessary documents as specified, ensuring they are up-to-date and clearly legible.
- Pay the service fee.
- Review all the details for accuracy and completeness then submit your application.
Remember, the key to a successful application is attention to detail and adherence to the specified requirements. Ensure all your documents are in order and follow each step carefully to avoid common mistakes such as incorrect category selection or incomplete documentation. For the most current information and detailed guidelines, always refer to the official GDRFA website or consult with a reputable corporate services provider.
How much does the Green Visa cost?
The primary application fee for the visa is set at AED 2,280. However, this is not the only expense to consider. Additional fees include the cost for the mandatory ID card, which is approximately AED 575, and the medical examination fee, typically around AED 320 for standard services.
It is important to note that these costs are for a single individual’s application. If you plan to sponsor dependents, the total cost will increase proportionally to the number of dependents included. This variation in total cost depends on several factors, including the number of family members being sponsored and any additional processing fees that may apply to their applications.
How can Global Link help?
Global Link has over 16 years’ experience working with local and global businesses, providing bespoke consultancy services for company incorporation and financial services in Dubai and the wider UAE.
If you’re considering capitalising on the unique opportunities offered by the UAE Green Visa, our team is here to help. We can offer comprehensive assistance in preparing and submitting all necessary documentation, ensuring that your application is complete and liaising directly with all relevant government departments on your behalf to streamline your application and make your transition as smooth as possible.
If you need advice on this or any other company incorporation, visa or PRO service, please get in touch with us on +971 4 553 9901 or email us at [email protected] and we will be happy to assist you.