Global عربي
KSA عربي
Global عربي
The UAE green visa is a 5-year residency visa that allows eligible individuals to sponsor themselves. This removes the need for an employer or UAE national to sponsor them, which is otherwise typically the case.
1- Freelancers
2- Self-employed people
3- Skilled employees
4- Investors
The UAE Green Visa has different requirements depending on the applicant’s category, such as freelancers, skilled employees, or investors.
Each category has its own eligibility criteria, which will be explained in detail below.
people must meet the following requirements to apply for a Green Visa:
- Hold at least a bachelor’s degree or a specialised diploma
- Have proof of minimum annual income of AD 360,000 from self-employed activities for the previous two years, or other proof demonstrating their ability to be financially solvent during their stay in the UAE.
- A freelance or self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
They must meet the following requirements to apply for a Green Visa:
- Have a valid UAE employment contract.
- Work a job that falls under occupational levels 1,2, or 3 as classified by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- Hold at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent).
- Earn a minimum salary of AED 15,000 per month.
Investors must meet certain requirements to be eligible, including:
- Minimum investment - must invest at least AED 1 million in an existing or new UAE business.
- Business structure - investment must be in a limited liability company (LLC), joint stock company or partnership.
- Valid license - must have a valid commercial or industrial license issued by a relevant free zone or the Department of Economic Development (DED).
- Proof of investment - must submit proof of ownership stake in the business or of the capital investment.
The UAE Green Visa offers a host of benefits that make it attractive to a variety of professionals. Namely:
1- Flexibility - the visa is not tied to a specific employer, so you have flexibility in terms of career advancement and mobility.
2- Easy extension - the visa can be renewed without an employer or sponsor having to intervene.
3- Family sponsorship - Family members such as spouses and children can be sponsored. Male visa holders can even sponsor parents under certain conditions.
4- Extended grace period - The Green visa permits up to 6 months of grace period to remain in the UAE after the end of employment, greater than the 30-60 day period usually permitted.
5- Seamless entry and exit - the Green visa is a multiple-entry permit, allowing you to come and go at your leisure.
The UAE Blue Visa is a 10-year residency given to individuals who have made an “exceptional” contribution to environmental protection and sustainability, whether in the UAE or internationally.
In offering this visa the UAE is looking to create an ecosystem of environmental innovators within the country that can contribute to its ambitious climate goals.
Various types of individuals with a strong track record on environmental causes are eligible to apply, including:
1- Conservationists - Individuals who work to protect habitats and safeguard marine life, ecosystems and endangered species.
2- Sustainability advocates - Experts involved in the fields of renewable energy, waste reduction and circular economy initiatives.
3- Environmental researchers - Individuals who are developing innovative solutions and furthering our understanding of ecological challenges.
4- Public awareness campaigners - Environmental educators and advocates who are promoting awareness through public policy and outreach.
The following documents are required to apply for a Blue visa:
1- Evidence of environmental contributions - this can include published research papers, case studies, project reports, awards, or certifications from recognized sustainability organizations.
2- Personal identification documents - A valid passport with 6-month validity, recent passport-sized photographs, and an Emirates ID if you’re already residing in the UAE.
3- Endorsement letters - recommendation letters from environmental agencies or organizations can be used to strengthen your application.
After submitting the application a medical examination and background check will be conducted before approval.
1-Stability - ten years with the possibility of renewal offers the chance to settle long-term in the UAE.
2- Excellent services - Blue Visa holders can access the UAE’s world-class healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
3- Family sponsorship - Blue Visa family sponsorship covers spouse, children and parents.
4- Self-sponsored residency - Like the Green Visa, the Blue Visa does not require a local sponsor. The visa is not affected by changes in employment status.
- Are these visas valid across all emirates, or just one (e.g. Dubai or Abu Dhabi only?)
The Green and Blue visas are valid across all of the UAE, and are not limited to specific emirates like Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
- Can I sponsor my family under the Green and Blue visas?
Yes. Under the Green and Blue visas you can sponsor family members such as your spouse, children, and even parents under certain conditions.
- How do I apply for the Blue and Green visas through ICP or GDRFA?
To apply online for a Blue or Green visa, simply log on to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) website or download their mobile application.
Navigate to the section for Blue residency services or Green residency services, submit your documents and pay the fee.
You can also apply via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website of your specific emirate.
- Can I apply for a UAE long-term visa while on a tourist visa?
Yes. However you will want to convert your tourist visa to a long-term visa before the expiration date in order to avoid paying fines for overstaying.
- What is the cost of the UAE Green visa fees in 2025?
Application fees for a Green visa range from AED 2000- AED 2,500. Additional fees include an ID card fee (AED 575) and a medical services fee (AED 320). If you’re applying from outside the UAE, you’ll also need to pay a AED1,250 entry permit fee. Exact fees may vary based on your circumstances.
- What is the cost of the UAE Blue visa fees in 2025?
The primary fee for a Blue visa is a AED 350 nomination fee. If you’re applying from outside the UAE, you’ll also need to pay a AED1,250 entry permit fee. Other application fees may apply.
Disclamer:
This post is for educational purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice or a solicitation to take any financial action. It should not be relied upon when making investment or financing decisions.
