Over the last few years, the UAE has continuously introduced new residency pathways to support its growing economy and attract global talent. The Green Visa plays a key role in this direction, offering a more flexible and secure option for individuals who want to build a future in the Emirates without relying on traditional sponsorship.
By creating long-term stability for residents, the UAE aims to encourage investment, support diverse career paths such as freelancing, and strengthen its position as a leader in innovation and quality of life. This wider vision is what makes the Green Visa an important part of the country’s evolving residency landscape.
Emirates is calling, what are you waiting for? Scroll down to learn everything about green visas, from eligibility to process.
- Understanding Green Visa in the UAE
- Eligibility Criteria for Green Visa
- Required Documents
- Required Fees
- Benefits of Green Visa in the UAE
- Why the Green Visa Matters
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
Understanding Green Visa in the UAE
Green visa was introduced in 2021 to attract talented people to the UAE. It is a long-term UAE residency visa that allows self-sponsorship.
This visa has opened doors to people coming to the UAE for diverse purposes. It allows individuals to stay in the Emirates for up to 5 years. Additionally, this visa has a grace period of 180 days upon expiry.
Eligibility Criteria for Green Visa
The first question that comes to mind is, ‘Am I eligible to apply for a green visa’? Let’s see who can apply for this visa:
- Freelancers or self-employed people
- Skilled employees
- Investors or partners
The following are the criteria to fulfil under each category:
Criteria for Freelancers/Self-Employed
- A bachelor’s degree or diploma.
- Proof of freelance or self-employment income for the last 2 years (must not be less than AED 360,000 annually).
Criteria for Skilled Employees
- A bachelor’s degree.
- A minimum salary of AED 15,000 per month.
- Must fall under the 1st, 2nd or 3rd professional level, classified by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). Check the official MoHRE website to get complete information.
- A valid UAE employment contract.
Criteria for Investors/Partners
- A minimum total of AED 1 million investment in the UAE.
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How to Apply for a UAE Green Visa
Applying for a UAE green visa is seamless with online and in-person options. Whether you are a foreigner, a UAE resident or a national, here is how to apply for a green visa:
Required Documents
Before starting with the process, gather the below-listed documents to save time:
Freelancers/Self-Employed
- Photograph
- Copy of valid passport for a minimum of 6 months
- Self-employment or freelance work permit from MoHRE
- Proof of minimum annual income of AED 360,000 (bank statement of last 2 years) or proof of financial solvency for the residency visa duration in the UAE
- Attested Bachelor’s degree/diploma
Skilled Employees
- Photograph
- Copy of valid passport for a minimum of 6 months
- Permit from MoHRE
- Employment contract (for government, semi-government and free zone facilities)
- Attested bachelor’s degree or equivalent
Investors/Partners
- Photograph
- Copy of valid passport for a minimum of 6 months
- Contract of partnership or investment
- Trade licence
The process to Apply for a Green Visa
Are you ready to fulfil your dream of coming to the UAE? Whether you are a freelancer, investor or skilled individual, if you meet the above requirements, continue reading!
1. Apply for an Entry Work Permit
Expats outside the GCC first need to apply for an entry permit that entitles them to stay in the UAE for 60 days from entry. In these 60 days, residency processes must be completed to avail of the 5-year visa benefit.
Through GDRFA Dubai Digital Channel
Here is how to apply for an entry visa through the GDRFA website and application:
- Go to the GDRFA smart services website.
- Sign up and then log in on the website or application using UAE Pass or through the registered username and password.
- Search for ‘Entry Permits’.
- Under ‘Entry Permits Services,’ click on ‘New Entry Permit for Green Residence.’
- Choose the green visa entry permit category.
- Complete the application form by providing all necessary details, including name, address and passport details.
- Attach the relevant documents.
- Pay the visa fees.
- Receive confirmation via email and SMS.
Through the ICP Website or the Application
- Register on the official website of ICP.
- Apply by filling out the same information discussed above.
- Attach documents and pay fees to get your entry permit.
2. Obtain Medical Certificate and Emirates ID
To obtain a 5-year residency, an applicant has to apply for a residency permit within 60 days of issuance. The first thing is to undergo a medical examination and get a medical certificate. After this, you need to apply for an Emirates ID.
3. Applying for a Residency Permit
Once done, here is the process to apply for a residency permit:
Through the ICP Website or the Application
- Go to the official website of ICP.
- Under the services section, click on ‘Issuing residency visa’.
- Register using the UAE Pass or username and password.
- Go to the Residency visa service section.
- Fill out the form by choosing the right visa category and entering all the necessary details.
- Attach the relevant documents such as passport copy, photograph, entry permit, medical certificate and Emirates ID application.
- Pay the fees.
- Wait for approval and issuance of residency.
Through Typing Centres
An applicant can also apply for a residency permit by visiting any nearby Amer service centre or customer happiness centre. Here is the process to follow:
- Visit the nearest centre.
- Get an automated turn ticket and wait for your turn.
- Submit a paper application with all the documents.
- Pay the applicable service fees.
Required Fees
Here is a breakdown of the service fees for everything discussed above:
Entry Permit
- Application fee: AED 100
- Issuance fee: AED 100
- Electronic service fee: AED 150
- Warranty: AED 1000
Residency Visa Fee
- Application fee: AED 100
- E-service channel fee: AED 100
- Residency permit fee: AED 150 per year
| Fee Type | Amount (AED) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Residence Permit Issuance Fee | 200 AED | Base fee for issuing a residency visa (including Green Visa categories processed through GDRFA). |
| Knowledge Dirham Fee | 10 AED | Mandatory government surcharge applied to residence-permit services. |
| Innovation Dirham Fee | 10 AED | Mandatory government surcharge applied to residence-permit services. |
| Inside-Country Application Fee (Status Change) | 500 AED | Charged when the applicant changes their status from inside the UAE rather than entering on a new entry permit. |
| Residence Permit Issuance (ICP – Federal Authority) | 100 AED (application) | ICP’s cost for issuing a residency visa via federal channels (non-Dubai applicants). |
| E-Service Channel Fee (ICP) | 100 AED | Digital service processing charge for residency services. |
| Residency Permit Fee (Per Year) | 150 AED / Year | Federal residency permit fee – this applies per year of validity (Green Visa = 5 years). |
| Medical Fitness Test (Dubai) | 338 AED | Mandatory medical test for residency |
Benefits of Green Visa in the UAE
A green visa in the UAE entitles a person to experience the lavish lifestyle of the Emirates. From top-notch healthcare in the UAE to educational institutes, living here is surely the best choice. Let’s go through the benefits one by one:
1. Family Benefit
Green visa holders can sponsor residency permits for their first-degree relatives. Here is the age requirement to sponsor children:
- Male children: Up to 25 years
- Female children: Unmarried and no age limit
- Children of determination: No age limit
2. Grace Period
Another benefit of a green visa is that it allows a 6 months grace period after visa expiry.
3. Long-Term Stay
This residency visa is an easy way to secure a long-term stay of 5 years within the Emirates. Additionally, if you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for a visa extension upon expiry.
4. Travelling
The best part about a green visa is you can travel outside the country for up to 180 days. It allows a visa holder to easily explore new places without the stress of visa expiry.
5. Access to Top-Notch Facilities
Staying in the UAE offers a plethora of opportunities and facilities. These include:
Educational Institutions
Enroll your kids in renowned schools and universities, offering high-quality education in the UAE. Some are listed below:
- GEMS School
- Zayed University
- The British International School
- Khalifa University
- American University of Sharjah
If you want to know more about the top schools in the UAE, check out our guide.
Recreational Spots
From the tallest skyscraper, Burj Khalifa, to serene beaches, living in the UAE is no less than a fun vacation.
6. Infrastructure and Lifestyle
From well-facilitated transportation in the UAE to top clinics, staying here is truly worth it. The Emirates offers a luxurious lifestyle that allows you to experience the extraordinary.
Why the Green Visa Matters
The UAE Green Visa is more than just a residency option; it reflects the country’s ongoing vision to attract skilled talent, creators, and future-focused professionals. By removing the need for a sponsor, the Green Visa gives people the freedom to build their careers, invest confidently, and make long-term plans in the Emirates.
It also strengthens the UAE’s position as a global hub for innovation and opportunity. Whether you’re a freelancer looking for stability, an employee aiming for growth, or an investor hoping to expand your business, the Green Visa supports your journey with a secure, flexible, and empowering residency pathway. Ultimately, it opens the door for individuals to turn the UAE into a long-term home while contributing to its thriving economy.
Key Takeaways
The UAE Green Visa is a flexible 5-year residency option that allows you to live and build your future in the Emirates without needing a sponsor. It caters to freelancers, skilled professionals and investors, offering a clear path for anyone who meets the eligibility criteria.
Applying is simple, with options to complete the process online or through Amer and customer happiness centres. Government fees start with the standard residency charges, while additional costs like medical tests and Emirates ID, depend on your situation.
Most importantly, the Green Visa comes with valuable benefits such as family sponsorship, a generous 180-day grace period and the freedom to travel for up to 6 months without affecting your residency. It’s designed to give you more stability, more choice and a long-term home in the UAE.
FAQs
A green visa is a 5-year residency visa that permits an individual to sponsor himself. A visa holder can also apply for renewal upon expiry.
No, both are different. An entry permit is issued for a short period to allow entry into the UAE. A residency visa, however, allows a stay in the UAE for a longer duration.
Freelancers, skilled employees, and investors or business partners can apply, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria for their category.
The official government fees begin with the residency permit issuance of AED 200, plus AED 10 for the Knowledge Dirham, AED 10 for the Innovation Dirham, and a AED 500 fee if you apply from inside the UAE. Applicants outside the UAE may also be required to pay a refundable security deposit of AED 1,025 when obtaining an entry permit.
Yes. If you continue to meet the eligibility requirements, you can renew your Green Visa for another 5 years.
No. The Golden Visa offers a 10-year residency and targets a different group of applicants, while the Green Visa provides a 5-year residency mainly for skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors.
Only skilled employees need a job offer. Freelancers, self-employed individuals, and investors can apply without one.
This new initiative has opened doors for long-term residency without a sponsor. Follow our step-by-step process and apply for a green visa in the UAE. The luxury lifestyle awaits!
Furthermore, if you are a remote worker, you can apply for a remote work visa in Dubai.
