What Is Green Visa UAE | Dubai Green Residence Visa Complete Guide

This article will provide all the information you need regarding the Dubai Green Residence visa .

The UAE has recently introduced a series of regulations designed to entice and retain talented and skilled workers from around the globe. Among these new rules is the 5-year Green Residence visa, which aims to enhance job market flexibility and promote a sense of security among UAE resident and their family.

The 5-year Green Residence visa is intended for individuals with exceptional talent, freelance experience, investment experience, and entrepreneurial skills. Applicants do not require a sponsor or an employer. In addition, those who obtain the Green Residence visa can sponsor their family members’ residency and receive additional benefits.

What is the UAE Green Visa?

The Green Visa, introduced by the UAE government, is a revolutionary new residence permit designed to attract and retain skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. This long-term residency visa offers a pathway for talented individuals to establish themselves in the UAE, fostering innovation and economic growth within the country.

The Green Visa is a self-sponsored residency visa valid for five years, with the option for renewal. Unlike traditional UAE residence visas, which are typically tied to employment with a specific company, the Green Visa grants individuals the freedom to live, work, and invest in the UAE without the requirement of an employer sponsor.

Explanation of its Purpose:

The UAE has established itself as a global hub for business and innovation. The Green Visa serves as a strategic initiative to attract and retain highly skilled professionals across various sectors. This includes:

• Skilled Employee: The Green Visa targets individuals with specialized skills and qualifications in high-demand fields. This injects a wealth of expertise into the UAE workforce, fostering a more dynamic and competitive business environment.
• Entrepreneur: The Green Visa empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to establish and run their own businesses within the UAE. This fosters a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, generating new ventures and job opportunities.
• Investor: The Green Visa provides a stable and secure environment for international investors to contribute to the UAE’s growing economy. This facilitates significant investment opportunities, propelling further development across various sectors.

Dubai Green Visa Criteria

Self employed individuals or freelancers may be eligible for the Green Visa if they can provide an attested bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma and hold a freelance or self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MoHRE). In addition, they have an annual income of at least AED 360,000 for two years.

Skilled employees must have a valid employment contract, be classified in the first, second, or third occupational level as determined by MoHRE, hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and earn a minimum salary of AED15,000.

The first skill level comprises professionals such as managers, engineers, safety officers, doctors, and reservation officers. The second skill level consists of mechanical and technical jobs. Finally, the third skill level encompasses sales executives, site supervisors, ticketing clerks, cashiers, receptionists, cash desk clerks, sales supervisors, storekeepers, tourist guides, and other similar roles.

Investors or partners must receive approval for their investment, provide proof of investment, and obtain consent from the relevant local authorities.

Green Visa Dubai Benefits

The most significant benefits are the longevity of the visa and the ability to live in the UAE as a freelancer , investor, or self employed individual without a sponsor.

The Green Visa enables the Green visa holder to sponsor their spouse and children. Male children up to 25 and unmarried daughters with no age limit can be sponsored. Dependents with special needs are granted a residence permit regardless of their age.

In case of visa cancellation or expiration, the overstay period has been extended to six months. This can be useful as you don’t have to exit the UAE immediately and can look for other options or leave on your terms.

Overseas applicants in the process of obtaining a visa are eligible for a 60-day entry work permit.

Green Residency Visa Dubai: Costs and Process

The visa application fee for the Green Visa is AED 336, and an additional AED 650 fee applies to those who wish to change their status within the country. In addition, applicants must also bear the costs of their medical tests and Emirates ID.

To apply for the Green Visa, Dubai residents can use the GDRFA-Dubai Smart Application and follow a few steps. First, they must download the app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store or visit www.gdrfad.gov.ae .

Next, they should register for a new user account if they do not already have one. Select the required service under Entry Permissions. Choose the relevant subcategory (skilled worker, investor, partner, or freelance work). Attach the required documents. Pay the fees, and submit the request. The GDRFA website will notify the applicant via text message and email about their application status. If there are any missing documents, the applicant will be given 30 days to upload them.

If you are in the UAE, you can also go to the nearest Amer Centre to apply for the Green Visa. Once the visa is approved, you will receive an electronic copy via email.

How to Apply for the Green Visa UAE (Step-by-Step)

The application process for the Green Visa UAE involves submitting the UAE green visa requirements or meeting the green visa UAE eligibility criteria set by the UAE authorities. While the specific requirements may be subject to updates, the general process can be outlined as follows:

Briefly explain the application process (refer to official UAE government websites for most up-to-date details):

1. Review the eligibility criteria: Carefully review the eligibility criteria for the Green Visa category you wish to apply for (e.g., investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional) and ensure you meet the requirements.
2. Gather necessary documents: Prepare and compile the required documents, such as educational certificates, employment contracts, business plans, proof of investment or funds, and any other supporting materials specified by the UAE authorities.
3. Submit the application: Complete the Green Visa application form and submit it along with the necessary documents through the designated online portal or authorized channels.
4. Pay the applicable fees: There may be fees associated with the application process, which must be paid as per the prescribed payment methods.
5. Attend interviews or assessments (if required): Depending on the visa category, you may be required to attend in-person interviews or undergo assessments to evaluate your eligibility and business proposals.
6. Await processing and approval: The UAE authorities will review your application and supporting documents. If approved, you will receive your Green Visa and relevant residency documentation.

It is crucial to refer to the official UAE government websites and regulatory bodies for the most up-to-date information, requirements, and application procedures, as these may be subject to changes or updates.

Ready to Apply for Residence Visa but Need Some Help?

We know that applying for any visa is not fun. So we have a team of experts who can help you navigate the process with our visa services. Our PROs (under our sister company PRO Services Dubai ) have processed many Green Visas. They are familiar with common reasons that may cause issues. Using our expertise, we make sure your experience of getting a visa is as smooth as possible. So don’t hesitate to contact us today for a consultation!