The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known for its thriving economy, world-class infrastructure, and diverse cultural attractions. With its strategic location and business-friendly environment, the UAE has become a hub for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals from around the world. To attract even more talented individuals, the UAE government has launched the Green Residency Visa program, which offers long-term residency to investors, entrepreneurs, and highly-skilled professionals.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the UAE Green Residency Visa, including its eligibility requirements, benefits, and how to apply for the visa.
What is Green Residence Visa?
The Green Visa is a type of residence visa that allows international talent to sponsor themselves, removing the need for employment in the UAE. It is a new 5-year visa introduced by the UAE government aimed at attracting exceptional workers in all fields, including freelancers, skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs.
The Green Visa provides visa holders and their families with more benefits than the standard residence visa. The ability to sponsor sons up to the age of 25 and unmarried daughters of any age is one of the benefits.
Benefits of UAE’s Green Visa
The UAE’s Green Visa offers several benefits to international talents, investors, and entrepreneurs. Let’s have a look at some of these benefits.
Self-sponsorship
The Green Visa allows international talents to sponsor themselves, eliminating the need for employment to reside in the UAE. This offers a lot of flexibility to individuals who want to live and work in the UAE but don’t have a job offer.
Long-term residency
The Abu Dhabi Green Visa offers long-term residency and more benefits to visa holders and their families than the standard residence visa, providing stability and security. This allows families to settle down in the UAE and build a life for themselves.
Flexibility
The Green Visa enhances flexibility in the job market, attracting exceptional workers in all fields, including freelancers, skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs. This allows individuals to work in the field they are most passionate about without any restrictions.
Family Sponsorship
The Green Visa allows the visa holder to sponsor sons up to the age of 25 and unmarried daughters, regardless of age, providing the opportunity for families to stay together in the UAE. This is a great benefit for families who want to live and work in the UAE.
More options
The Abu Dhabi Green Visa is valid for five years and offers a wide range of visa options for professionals, freelancers, investors, and partners, catering to a diverse range of individuals and their needs. This allows individuals to choose the visa option that best suits their needs and requirements.
Who is Eligible for the Green Visa?
The Green Visa is available to freelancers, skilled workers, and investors who meet certain eligibility criteria. Here is a breakdown of the requirements for each category:
Green Residence for Skilled Employees
Skilled employees can obtain a 5-year residency permit under the Green Visa without the need for a sponsor or employer. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation specifies that applicants must have a valid employment contract and be classified at the first, second, or third occupational level. They must also hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and earn a starting salary of at least AED 15,000 per month.
To apply for the Green Visa, skilled employees must:
- have a valid employment contract
- be classified at the first, second, or third occupational level according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
- hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- earn a salary of at least AED 15,000 per month.
Green Residence for Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals
The Green Visa offers freelancers and self-employed individuals a 5-year residency permit without the need for a sponsor or employer. To be eligible, applicants must obtain a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, have a bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma, and demonstrate an annual income from self-employment of at least AED 360,000 for the previous two years or financial solvency throughout their stay in the country.
To apply for the Green Visa, freelancers, and self-employed individuals must provide:
- a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
- proof of a bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma
- evidence of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years of at least AED 360,000 or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
Green Residence for Investors or Partners
Investors who establish or participate in commercial activities are eligible for a 5-year residency permit under the Green Visa. Investment approval and proof of investment are required, and the total invested capital will be calculated if the investor (partner) has more than one license. The approval of the relevant local authorities is also necessary.
To apply for the Green Visa, investors or partners must:
- obtain investment approval
- provide proof of investment
- obtain approval from the appropriate local authorities.
How to Apply for the Green Visa
To apply for the Green Visa, applicants should visit the website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) at https://icp.gov.ae. The website provides information on eligibility criteria and required documents for each category, including the Green Visa for freelancers/self-employed, skilled workers, and investors.
Applicants must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria for the category they are applying for and submit all required documents in accordance with the guidelines. Depending on the category of the Green Visa, required documents may include a valid work permit, proof of income, proof of financial solvency, and attested educational certificates.
Conclusion:
The UAE Green Residency Visa is an excellent opportunity for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly-skilled professionals to obtain long-term residency in the UAE and access its vibrant business ecosystem and world-class facilities. By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the application process, applicants can take advantage of the numerous benefits offered by the visa, such as long-term residency, sponsorship, and access to education and healthcare.
However, it’s important to thoroughly research and understand the requirements and conditions of the visa before applying to ensure that it aligns with your goals and needs. With the right preparation and approach, the UAE Green Residency Visa can be an excellent option for those seeking to establish a long-term presence in the UAE.
What is the Green Residence Visa?
The Green Residence Visa is a long-term residency visa for foreign talent, entrepreneurs, and investors in the UAE.
What are the benefits of the Green Residence Visa?
The Green Residence Visa provides its holders with numerous benefits, including long-term residency, the ability to sponsor family members, and the opportunity to open a bank account and invest in the country.
Who is eligible to apply for the Green Residence Visa?
Skilled employees, freelancers and self-employed individuals, and investors and partners are eligible to apply for the Green Residence Visa.
How long is the Green Residence Visa valid?
The Green Residence Visa is valid for up to 10 years.
Is the Green Residence Visa renewable?
Yes, the Green Residence Visa is renewable.
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