How to Apply For A UAE Green Visa: A Step by Step Guide
Getting a green visa in the UAE allows foreigners to live, work, invest or do business in the UAE. The Green Visa is highly beneficial you can stay longer in the UAE without an employer’s sponsorship.
- Self-Sponsorship
- Multiple Entry Visa
- Sponsoring Family
- Lower Visa Thresholds
Dubai Green Visa, a renewable residency permit designed to attract remote workers and professionals who wish to live and work in Dubai. As the world's work landscape shifts towards remote work, Dubai has positioned itself as an appealing destination for digital nomads and skilled individuals seeking an enhanced work-life balance.
Why to Apply For A UAE Green Visa in Dubai?
The Dubai Green Visa offers a unique opportunity for non-residents to experience the city's vibrant culture, modern infrastructure, and thriving business ecosystem. With this visa, individuals can work remotely for companies based outside the UAE while enjoying Dubai's world-class amenities and lifestyle.
Nevertheless, it is crucial for investors and professionals to verify their compliance with the eligibility conditions for the UAE Green Visa. Additionally, they must comprehend the requirements stipulated by the government for the UAE Green Visa to take advantage of the benefits it provides. Smart Zones® UAE takes pride in providing comprehensive support with the application process for the Dubai Green Visa
Who is eligible to apply for Green Visas in the UAE ?
The eligibility for UAE Green Visa is applicable primarily to three categories of individuals. To secure a Green Visa in the UAE, applicants must fall into one of the following categories:
- Freelancers/self-employed individuals
- Skilled employees
- Investors or partners
Is the UAE Green Visa equivalent to the Golden Visa?
No, the UAE Golden Visa and Green Visas provide long-term residency options for foreign individuals. However, they are based on distinct concepts. The Green Visa provides a five-year residency option, whereas the Golden Visa offers 10-year residency options for its holders. Additionally, the Golden Visa is available to a different group of applicants. Providers of premier Green Visa Services in Dubai can assist investors in clearly discerning the differences between these two visa programs.
Benefits of Obtaining the UAE Green Visa
The UAE Green Visa provides a diverse array of benefits for eligible individuals. Beyond the extended residency duration, a key advantage of the UAE Green Visa is its capability to sponsor family members, offering more extensive benefits compared to regular residence visas. The following highlights some of the key advantages of the UAE Green Visa:
- Holders of the UAE Green Visa gain eligibility to sponsor family members, including spouses, children, and first-degree relatives.
- Green Visa holders can sponsor the residence visa of their male children for up to 25 years (previously 18 years), with no age limit for unmarried daughters.
- Children of determination (those with special needs) are granted a residence permit, irrespective of their age.
- The Green Visa provides more extended and flexible grace periods of up to 6 months to stay in the UAE after the cancellation or expiration of the residence permit.
- The residency duration for family members aligns with that of the original visa holder.
Requirements for Freelancers/Self-employed Individuals Applying for UAE Green Visa
Freelancers have consistently been in demand in the UAE, given the country's status as a global business hub. The demand for freelancers in the UAE increased following the Covid-19 pandemic, as hiring in-house employees with substantial salaries proved to be costly amidst the changed economic conditions. Including freelancers in the UAE Green Visa eligibility criteria has simplified the process for self-employed individuals to reside and work in the country. To meet the UAE Green Visa requirements, freelancers and self-employed individuals must submit the following:
- A freelance/self-employment permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE)
- Evidence of a bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma
- Proof of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years, totaling at least AED 360,000; or
- Demonstrate financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE
Requirements for Skilled Employees Applying for UAE Green Visa
Skilled employees aspiring to apply for a UAE Green Visa need to fulfill a distinct set of requirements. Utilizing Green Visa services in Dubai can assist these individuals in navigating the formal procedures. Skilled employees must satisfy the following UAE Green Visa requirements:
- A valid employment contract for skilled employees
- The skilled employee must be categorized in the first, second, or third occupational level as per the MoHRE
- The UAE Green Visa applicant should possess a minimum bachelor’s degree or its equivalent
- The skilled employee should be earning a salary of at least AED 15,000
Requirements for Investors or Partners Applying for UAE Green Visa
Foreign investors are also eligible to apply for a UAE Green Visa by meeting the specified requirements. Investors can assess their eligibility through tailored UAE Green Visa services in Dubai. Investors must fulfill the following UAE Green Visa requirements:
- UAE Green Visa eligibility is open to investors establishing or participating in commercial activities.
- Investors must obtain approval for the investment and provide proof of investment (If the investor/partner holds more than one license, the total invested capital will be calculated.)
- Investors should secure approval from the competent local authorities
Submitting incorrect documents can lead to immediate rejection. Our consultants at Smart Zones® UAE ensure you have the right documents, avoiding any complications in the process.
How To Apply For UAE Green Visa?
If you intend to obtain a UAE green card for yourself or your family members, the initial step involves applying for an entry permit, which grants permission to travel to the country. Below are the comprehensive steps outlining how you can initiate the application process for your green visa:
Embark on the journey of UAE Green Visa in Dubai by partnering with Smart Zones® UAE. Our adept company formation specialists will guide you through the UAE Green Visa application and process, liaising with relevant government and municipal authorities on your behalf.
Initiate the application process through the UAE visa system – ICP website. Alternatively, you can visit one of the typing centers or customer happiness centers in the UAE. On the ICP website, use the search bar to find 'Issuing Residency Visa,' or on the GDRAFD website, search for 'Entry Permits,' then navigate to 'Entry Permit Services,' and finally, select the 'New Entry Permit for Green Residence' option.
Choose the relevant green visa type on GDRFAD from the following options:
- Issuing Entry Permit for Green Residence (Partner)
- Issuing Entry Permit for Green Residence (Investor)
- Issuing Entry Permit for Green Residence (High Skilled Worker)
- Issuing Entry Permit for Green Residence (Self-Employment)
On the ICP website, similarly select the appropriate visa type. After selecting the visa type, click on 'Start Services' to begin the application process. Log into your GDRFAD website or use your UAE pass to apply on the ICP website.
Upon signing in, you'll be directed to a new page where you must choose the visa type and start completing the application. Provide necessary information such as your name, Emirates ID number, residential address, passport details, etc.
Depending on your visa type, the required supporting documents may vary. Ensure you upload the correct documents. Any missing documents can be uploaded on the portal or submitted within 30 days of notification. Failure to submit may result in the cancellation of your visa application.
Review your application and make the relevant visa fee payments before submitting your Green visa application.
After submitting the application, wait for the visa to undergo processing. During this period, you will receive notifications on your email and phone regarding the application status. Once the visa is approved, you will receive a notification.
Navigating the visa application process in a foreign country can be daunting, but Smart Zones® UAE makes it simple and stress-free. Our experienced team of consultants is well-versed in UAE immigration laws and regulations, guiding applicants through every step of the process. Smart Zones® Dubai offers personalized assistance to ensure that all necessary documents are correctly prepared and submitted to the relevant authorities, increasing the chances of a successful application.
One of the significant advantages of choosing SmartZones® UAE for Dubai Green Visa support is our vast network of connections with government entities. This allows us to stay updated on any changes in visa requirements and streamline the application process efficiently.
Required Documents for UAE Green Visa Application in Dubai
When applying for a UAE green visa, you need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months
- A copy of your passport-size photograph on a white background
- Evidence of medical reports from competent local authorities
- Proof of health insurance or a health card
- A valid entry permit
- Evidence of qualification
- Proof of employment or freelancing permit from MOHRE
- A duly filled application form
Additional documents may be required if you are sponsoring family members, including:
- Proof of a certified rental contract or ownership of a residence
- A copy of the sponsor’s passport with a valid residence permit
- A valid job contract in the UAE from the sponsor
- Birth certificate for the sponsored individual
- Attested marriage certificate in English or Arabic
Cost of UAE Green Visa in Dubai
In 2024, the UAE Green Visa is priced at AED 5,260, covering the following components:
- Entry Permit - AED 1,035
- Residency Visa - AED 2,200
- Change of Status - AED 570
- Medical Checkup - AED 755
- Emirates ID - AED 700
How To Renew The UAE Green Visa
Green visas have a validity period of 5 years. To renew a Green Visa, applicants need to provide the following documents to the UAE government:
- A duly filled application form
- A photocopy of their passport
- A copy of their Green Visa
- A medical certificate
- A police clearance certificate
It's important to note that individuals are permitted to stay in the country for 180 days after the Green Visa's expiration or cancellation.
Dubai Green Visa presents a unique opportunity for non-residents to immerse themselves in the city's vibrant culture and business environment while working remotely for international companies. This visa aligns with the global shift towards remote work and offers an enhanced work-life balance, making Dubai an appealing destination for digital nomads and skilled professionals.
The eligibility criteria for UAE Green Visa apply to freelancers/self-employed individuals, skilled employees, and investors or partners. Each category has specific requirements that applicants must fulfill to secure the Green Visa.
No, the UAE Green Visa and Golden Visa differ in terms of residency duration and eligibility criteria. The Green Visa provides a five-year residency option, while the Golden Visa offers 10-year residency options for a different group of applicants. Premier Green Visa Services in Dubai can assist in understanding these distinctions.
The UAE Green Visa offers extended residency and the ability to sponsor family members. Holders can sponsor spouses, children, and first-degree relatives, including male children up to 25 years and unmarried daughters with no age limit. Children with special needs receive a residence permit, and the Green Visa provides flexible grace periods after the cancellation or expiration of the residence permit.
Freelancers need a permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, a bachelor's degree, proof of annual income, or financial solvency to meet the AED 360,000 requirement for the previous two years.
Skilled employees need a valid employment contract, classification in the first, second, or third occupational level, a minimum bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, and a salary of at least AED 15,000.
Investors must engage in or establish commercial activities, obtain investment approval, provide proof of investment, and secure approval from local authorities.
Applying for a UAE Green Visa involves partnering with Smart Zones® UAE, visiting the ICP website, choosing the visa type, completing the application, uploading required documents, paying visa fees, and waiting for the processing. Smart Zones® UAE offers support in navigating the application process efficiently.
Required documents include a valid passport, passport-size photograph, medical reports, health insurance, entry permit, qualification evidence, employment or freelancing permit from MOHRE, and a duly filled application form. Additional documents are needed for sponsoring family members.
In 2024, the UAE Green Visa costs AED 5,260, covering components such as entry permit, residency visa, change of status, medical checkup, and Emirates ID.
To renew the Green Visa, applicants need to submit a duly filled application form, a photocopy of their passport, a copy of their Green Visa, a medical certificate, and a police clearance certificate. Individuals can stay in the country for 180 days after the Green Visa's expiration or cancellation.
Want to know more, talk to Smart Zones® Dubai advisory team they will be happy to help. Ready to invest in your future?
