UAE Green Visa
What is UAE Green Visa?
The green Visa in UAE, introduced in 2021 and came into effect from October 2022, allows expats to have a 5-year residency in the UAE without the need for an employer sponsor. Its purpose is to retain talent in the nation and elevate it to higher standards. This initiative has received considerable praise as it contributes to the growth of the economy and positions the nation as a business-friendly location.
To obtain the green visa, individuals must fulfill the requirements specified by the government and can sponsor themselves for the visa. Those holding a green visa can have their documents renewed within 90 to 180 days, whereas individuals with a standard visa have a shorter renewal timeframe of only 30 days.
Benefit of a UAE Green Visa
UAE residents and families can enjoy several benefits with these 5-year residency permits. Some of the benefits Green Residence visa holders can take advantage of are as follows:
- If you meet the requirements for the green visa, you do not need a sponsor.
- With the green visa, you can reside in the UAE for up to 5 years.
- Green visa holders have the ability to sponsor family members, including spouses, children, and first-degree relatives.
- Male children up to the age of 25 and unmarried daughters of any age can be sponsored.
- Children with special needs can be sponsored regardless of their age.
- The validity of family members' visas is dependent on the primary applicant's visa.
- Freelancers, remote workers, and investors are eligible to apply for a 5-year green visa in Dubai.
- Students and standard employers can apply for a 2-year green visa.
- A green residence permit can be renewed for the same duration if the requirements are met upon visa expiration.
- Instead of the usual 30-day grace period, green visa holders and their families have longer flexible grace periods. They can apply for a new green visa within 90 days or up to six months.
Eligibility Criteria for a UAE Green Visa?
1. Skilled Employees
- Hold a valid employment contract in the UAE.
- Employed in a job classified as the first, second, or third occupational level.
- Possess a minimum educational qualification of a bachelor's degree or equivalent.
- Have a monthly salary of at least AED 15,000.
2. Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals
- Hold a freelance/self-employment permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- Provide proof of self-employment, such as business licenses, tax returns, and business receipts.
- Possess a minimum educational qualification of a bachelor's degree or a specialized diploma.
- Demonstrate an annual income from self-employment of at least AED 360,000 for the past two years.
- Show financial solvency or stability during the stay in the UAE.
3. Investors or Business Partners
- Engage in promoting investments or developing commercial enterprises in the UAE.
- Obtain approval for the investment from the competent local authorities in the UAE and provide proof of investment.
- If the investor or partner holds more than one license, the total invested capital will be considered.
- Obtain approval from the relevant municipal authorities.
Documents Required for UAE Green Residence Visa
When applying for a UAE Green Residence Visa, you will need to gather the following documents:
- Valid passport for at least six months
- Copy of a passport-size photograph on white background
- Proof of medical reports from competent local authorities
- Proof of health insurance or health card
- Valid entry permit
- Proof of qualification
- Proof of employment or freelancing permit from MOHRE
- A duly filled application form
In case you wish to sponsor your family members, additional documents may be required, including:
- Proof of rental contract (certified) or owning a residence.
- A copy of the sponsor's passport with a valid residence permit.
- A valid job contract in UAE from the sponsor
- Birth certificate for the sponsored.
- Attested marriage certificate in English or Arabic.
MARKEF can help you
MARKEF plays a crucial role in the UAE green visa process by providing comprehensive assistance and services to individuals who wish to obtain the visa. By availing our services, individuals can benefit from their expertise and experience in navigating the green visa process. You can rely on us to provide with the best possible solutions and support to successfully obtain the green visa and fulfill your dream of residing in the UAE.