Green Visa UAE

UAE Green Visa: Overview

The UAE Green Visa is a new type of residence permit that was introduced by the Government in 2022 to make the UAE a more attractive destination for highly skilled talent. 

The visa is designed to attract top talent from around the world and to encourage them to stay in the UAE for the long term. Also, this visa provides a unique opportunity for individuals seeking to establish their presence in the United Arab Emirates and grants the freedom to reside in the country for five years without the need for sponsorship from an employer or company and allows sponsoring their family members. This type of visa can be sometimes called the UAE Silver Visa but it is not its official name. 

Benefits of UAE Green Visa

The UAE Green Visa offers numerous benefits to individuals who obtain it, making it an attractive option for those looking to live and work in the United Arab Emirates. Here are some of the key advantages of holding a UAE Green Visa:

1. Independent living and employment: One of the primary benefits of the UAE Green Visa is that it allows individuals to live and work in the UAE without the need for sponsorship from an employer. This means that individuals can enjoy greater flexibility and autonomy in their careers, as they are not tied to a specific job or employer.
2. Family sponsorship: With a UAE Green Visa, individuals also have the opportunity to sponsor their family members, enabling them to join and live with them in the UAE. 
3. Long validity period: The UAE Green Visa has a validity period of 5 years, which provides a sense of stability and security to individuals and their families. This extended duration allows for long-term planning and facilitates a smoother integration into the UAE society.

Who is eligible for a Green Visa?

The Green Visa is open to freelancers, self-employed individuals, and skilled employees who meet the specific criteria.

Freelancers and self-employed individuals

If you are a freelancer or self-employed and interested in applying for a Green Visa, you will need to provide the following documents:

• A freelance or self-employment permit obtained from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
• Proof of a bachelor's degree or a specialized diploma.
• Evidence of annual income from self-employment for the past two years, totaling at least AED 360,000. Alternatively, you can demonstrate financial solvency throughout your stay in the UAE.

Skilled employees

For skilled employees looking to apply for a Green Visa, the following requirements must be met:

• Possession of a valid employment contract.
• Classification within the first, second, or third occupational level as determined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
• Holding a minimum of a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification.
• A monthly salary of no less than AED 15,000.

Investors or partners

To apply for the UAE Green Visa, this category of applicants must have:

• Approval from the local government to conduct investment activities;
• Proof of investment, the amount of which must be not less than $270,000.

How to Apply for the UAE Green Visa

There are two ways to apply for the Green Visa: offline by contacting the migration service, or online.

Online application for the UAE Green Visa

Below is a step-by-step process for the online application:

1. Register on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website and click Individuals.
2. Select the appropriate visa type (Partner Investor, High Skilled Worker or Self-Employment) and click Start Service.

1. In the new window, click New Applicant and select the New Entry Permit for Green Residence option. Click Apply.
2. Fill in the forms, attach the necessary documents as requested, and pay the fees (See the list of required documents and the visa cost below).
3. Once your application has been processed, you will receive an email notification.

Offline application for the UAE Green Visa

You can apply for the UAE Green Visa either at the Customer Happiness Centre or Amer Service Centre (in Dubai). The process is straightforward:

1. Visit the nearest Customer Happiness Centre or Amer Service Centre.
2. Take an automated turn ticket and wait for your turn.
3. Submit the filled out application with the required documents.
4. Pay the fees.
5. Wait for your Green Visa to be emailed to you.

If you are applying from another country, you will need an entry permit, such as a temporary work permit valid for two months. If you are already in the UAE on a tourist visa, you will need to change your visa status. To accomplish this, you can contact the registration authority, and they will provide you with a temporary permit document for a fee of $170.

Additionally, in some cases, you may be required to undergo a medical test and provide biometrics at the Typing Office. The results of these tests will need to be submitted to the immigration office. After completing these steps, all that remains is to wait for your Green Visa to be emailed to you.

Required documents for the UAE Green Visa

The application process for a UAE Green Visa is relatively straightforward. Applicants must submit the following documents to the UAE government:

• A completed application form
• A copy of their passport
• A copy of their educational qualifications
• A copy of their employment contract (for highly skilled professionals)
• A copy of their salary certificate (for highly skilled professionals)
• A medical certificate
• A police clearance certificate

To learn more about the UAE Green Visa application procedure, visit the website.

UAE Green Visa Cost

UAE Green Visa cost in 2024 is AED 5,260, including:

• Entry Permit - 1,035 AED
• Residency Visa - 2,200 AED
• Change of Status - 570 AED
• Medical Checkup - 755 AED 
• Emirates ID - 700 AED

How to renew the UAE Green Visa

Green visas are valid for 5 years. To renew a Green Visa, applicants must submit the following documents to the UAE government:

• A completed application form
• A copy of their passport
• A copy of their Green Visa
• A medical certificate
• A police clearance certificate

Note that you are allowed to stay in the country for 180 days after the expiration or cancellation of the Green Visa.

Smooth and fast Green Visa application with Emirabiz

Emirabiz has extensive knowledge and experience in handling visa applications, ensuring all necessary documentation is prepared accurately and promptly. By leveraging our expertise we can expedite the Green Visa application, minimizing delays and saving valuable time. Whether it's assisting freelancers, self-employed individuals, or skilled employees, Emirabiz strives to provide a hassle-free experience, ensuring a seamless journey towards obtaining the coveted Green Visa in the UAE.

Contact Emirabiz for assistance any time.