If you are willing to secure a long-term residency across the Emirates, the latest opportunity you have is a UAE green visa. It was introduced in September 2021. Its purpose was to attract investors and entrepreneurs and retain top talent and skilled workers from all around the world. However, the requirements for a green visa in the UAE are still unknown to many.
If you are also one of them, then don’t worry. In today’s detailed guide, we will discuss about the UAE green visa requirements and its eligibility criteria. All you need is to keep reading.
So, let’s dig in.
UAE Green Visa Eligibility and Requirements:
First comes, who is eligible to apply for UAE golden visa.
It is mainly available to freelancers or self-employed or skilled people, but if you are an investor or a partner, then you are also eligible to apply for it.
However, there are certain restrictions that you must follow in order to be eligible, and here is the breakdown of each.
Skilled employees
If you have any skills and experience, the UAE Green Visa can be your first step towards a brighter career in Emirates.
To be eligible for this, you’ll need a valid employment contract with a UAE company. With that, your position must be classified within the first, second, or third occupational level as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE). This system categorizes jobs based on required skill level and educational background.
A bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification is mandatory, and your monthly salary must meet or exceed AED 15,000 (approximately USD 4,080).
Freelancers and self-employed
Are you a freelancer or self-employed professional seeking a vibrant and business-friendly environment?
The UAE Green Visa welcomes your expertise. To be eligible, you’ll need a freelance permit issued by MOHRE, authorizing you to work independently in the UAE. A bachelor’s degree, equivalent qualification, or a specialized diploma is also required.
Most importantly, you must have a strong financial solvency. This can be proved by showing an annual income from self-employment of at least AED 360,000 (approximately USD 98,000) for the past two years.
Alternatively, you can provide evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself throughout your residency in the UAE.
Investors or Partners
The UAE recognizes the value that investors bring to its growing economy. The Green Visa program offers opportunities for those seeking to establish or partner in a business within the country.
Specific requirements may vary depending on the chosen investment path. Here’s a general overview:
- Property Investment: Investing a minimum amount in UAE real estate can qualify you for a Green Visa. The exact amount can differ based on the Emirate and property type.
- Business Setup: Company establishment in Dubai by meeting the specific criteria on minimum capital investment can also make you eligible for the UAE green visa.
- Business Partnership: Individuals who become significant partners (usually with a minimum ownership stake) in a well-established UAE company qualify for the Green Visa program.
Documents Required For UAE Green Visa
For skilled employees
The most important requirement for a skilled worker who is willing to apply for a UAE green visa is to offer a valid contract for where he is working. It’s mandatory!
Along with fulfilling the eligibility criteria, you also need to provide the following documents:
- Valid passport with sufficient remaining validity
- Educational certificates (attested if obtained outside the UAE)
- Employment contract with the UAE company
- Proof of salary (e.g., salary certificate)
- Medical fitness test results (upon arrival in the UAE)
For freelancers and self-employed
Freelancers and skilled employees are considered to be part of the growing community in the UAE. Their demand has increased after the COVID-19 attack. This has also caused this huge community to be in the eligibility brackets for UAE green visas.
If you are a freelancer or self-employed person, then you must meet the eligibility mentioned above requirements and provide the following documents.
- Valid passport with sufficient remaining validity
- Educational certificates (attested if obtained outside the UAE)
- MOHRE-issued freelance permit
- Bank statements or audited financial documents (to prove income)
- Alternatively, proof of sufficient funds for residency in the UAE
- Medical fitness test
For investors or Partners
UAE offers tons of opportunities to its investors, such as VAT registration or golden visas in UAE. That’s why it is no wonder they also become eligible to apply for the green visa.
The following are the documents they need to provide to get the green residency visa in UAE.
- Valid passport with sufficient remaining validity
- Proof of investment in UAE property (e.g., title deed) (for property investors)
- Business registration documents and proof of minimum capital investment for business setup in UAE
- Company documents and evidence of partnership stake (for business partners)
- Financial statements (for businesses)
- Depending on the investment type, additional documents may be required.
The Duration of UAE Green Visa:
The UAE Green Visa offers a significant advantage over traditional UAE residence visas – its extended validity period. Here’s what you need to know about the Green Visa duration:
- Validity: The UAE Green Visa is typically valid for five (5) years from the date of issuance.
- Renewal: The Green Visa is renewable for an additional five (5) year period upon meeting the renewal requirements set by the authorities.
This extended validity translates to greater stability and peace of mind for Green Visa holders. You can reside in the UAE for a longer period without the need for frequent visa renewals.
Want to apply for a UAE Green Visa?
Well, if you stick with us till the end, we are sure you are well aware of UAE green visa requirements and are ready to apply.
If so, then you can also read our detailed step-by-step guide on how to apply for a UAE golden visa online.
However, if you are still confused, you can also reach out to us, and we will help you secure your green visa in the UAE without any hassle.
