Imagine a place where your dreams of long-term residency, career flexibility, and family unity can all come true. Welcome to the UAE Green Visa!
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Your gateway to a prosperous future in one of the world's most dynamic countries. This innovative visa, also known as the UAE 5 Years Visa, is designed to attract talented individuals, skilled workers, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs from across the globe, offering a unique blend of benefits that make living and working in the UAE more appealing than ever.
About UAE Green Visa, 5 years Visa
The UAE Green Visa is a forward-thinking initiative by the United Arab Emirates designed to attract and retain talented individuals, skilled workers, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs from around the world. This visa aims to enhance the UAE's competitive edge in the global market by providing a more flexible and long-term residency option, known as the UAE 5 Years Visa.
UAE Green Visa Benefits
The UAE Green Visa isn't just a residency permit—it's a lifestyle upgrade that offers a range of unparalleled benefits designed to make your stay in the UAE both convenient and fulfilling. By opting for the Green Visa, you are opening doors to a multitude of opportunities and advantages that cater to various needs and aspirations. Here’s a detailed look at the benefits of the UAE Green Visa:
Long-term Residency
Enjoy a Five-Year Stay: The Green Visa provides a generous five-year residency period, significantly reducing the hassle and administrative burden of frequent renewals. This extended duration allows you to establish your roots, plan long-term goals, and fully integrate into the vibrant UAE community. Whether you are looking to advance your career, grow your business, or simply enjoy a stable life in a dynamic environment, the Green Visa offers you the time and security to thrive.
Employment Flexibility
Switch Jobs and Work for Multiple Employers: One of the standout benefits of the Green Visa is the freedom it grants in employment. Unlike traditional visas that tie you to a single sponsor or employer, the Green Visa allows you to switch jobs, work for multiple employers, or even start your own business. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for freelancers and skilled workers who seek diverse opportunities and wish to maximize their potential without being restricted by conventional employment arrangements.
Start Your Own Business: For entrepreneurs and investors, the Green Visa provides the freedom to establish and run their own businesses. This flexibility not only fosters innovation and entrepreneurship but also contributes to the economic growth of the UAE by encouraging new ventures and business activities.
Family Sponsorship
Bring Your Loved Ones: The Green Visa allows you to sponsor your immediate family members, including your spouse, children, and even parents. This provision ensures that your family can join you in the UAE, creating a supportive and cohesive family environment. Family unity is a significant advantage, as it allows you to live and work in the UAE with the comfort of having your loved ones close by.
Foster Family Unity: By providing the ability to sponsor family members, the Green Visa helps foster family unity and stability. This benefit is particularly important for expatriates who wish to bring their families along and avoid the emotional strain of long-term separation.
Ease of Travel
Multiple Entries and Exits: The Green Visa offers the convenience of multiple entries and exits, making international travel and re-entry hassle-free. Whether you need to travel for business, visit family abroad, or take a vacation, the Green Visa ensures that you can leave and return to the UAE without any complications. This ease of travel enhances your mobility and allows you to maintain global connections while residing in the UAE.
Streamlined Re-entry Process: With the Green Visa, you can enjoy a streamlined re-entry process, ensuring that your travels are smooth and stress-free. This benefit is especially valuable for professionals and businesspeople who frequently travel internationally.
Green Visa UAE Eligibility Criteria
The UAE Green Visa is designed to attract a diverse range of professionals, offering long-term residency and various benefits. Here’s a detailed look at the eligibility criteria and application process:
The Green Visa is accessible to several categories of professionals, each with specific eligibility criteria:
Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals
Permit: Applicants must obtain a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). This permit is essential to demonstrate the legitimacy and legal status of your freelance or self-employed activities within the UAE.
Educational Qualification: Proof of a bachelor's degree or a specialized diploma is required. This ensures that the applicant has the necessary educational background to qualify for the visa.
Income: Evidence of an annual income from self-employment for the previous two years amounting to at least AED 360,000, or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE. This requirement helps ensure that the applicant has a stable income source and can support themselves while residing in the UAE.
Skilled Employees
Employment Contract: Applicants must have a valid employment contract. This is necessary to prove that the individual is actively employed in the UAE.
Occupational Classification: The applicant should be classified in the first, second, or third occupational level as per MoHRE. This classification typically includes highly skilled professions such as managers, engineers, and specialists.
Educational Qualification: A minimum of a bachelor's degree or equivalent is required. This ensures that the applicant has the necessary academic credentials.
Salary: Applicants must have a salary of at least AED 15,000 per month. This salary threshold ensures that the applicant is earning a sufficient income to support themselves and their dependents.
Investors and Entrepreneurs
Investment Proof: Applicants must show evidence of investment in commercial activities within the UAE. This can include documentation such as financial statements, business plans, and other relevant documents.
Approval: Applicants need to obtain approval of the investment and proof of investment from competent local authorities. This step ensures that the investment is recognized and sanctioned by the UAE government.
Investment Amount: The total invested capital will be calculated if the investor has more than one license. This helps in assessing the total economic contribution of the applicant.
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Application Process for the UAE Green Visa
The application process for the UAE Green Visa is designed to be straightforward and efficient. Here are the key steps:
1.Determine Eligibility:
Identify which category you fall into: Freelancer/Self-employed, Skilled Employee, or Investor/Entrepreneur.
Review the specific criteria for your category to ensure you meet all requirements.
2.Gather Required Documents:
Collect all necessary documents (detailed below) to support your application.
3.Prepare Documents:
Ensure all documents are current and correctly formatted. Make copies where required and translate any non-English/Arabic documents if necessary.
4.Submit Application:
Choose between online submission or in-person application at Amer Centers (detailed below).
5.Pay Fees:
Pay the necessary application fees through the designated methods.
6.Complete Background Check:
Be prepared to undergo a background check as part of the application process.
7.Receive Confirmation:
Once your application is processed, you will receive confirmation of your Green Visa status.
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UAE Green Visa Rules | Required Documents and How to Prepare Them
The required documents vary based on the applicant category:
1.Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
Freelance/Self-Employment Permit: Obtain from MoHRE.
Educational Documents: Proof of bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma.
Income Proof: Evidence of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years amounting to at least AED 360,000, or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
Details: Include bank statements, tax returns, and financial affidavits.
Personal Identification: Passport, Emirates ID, and passport-sized photographs.
2.Skilled Employees:
Employment Contract: Valid contract from your employer.
Occupational Classification: Proof of classification within the first, second, or third occupational level as per MoHRE.
Educational Documents: Proof of bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Salary Proof: Documentation showing a salary of at least AED 15,000 per month.
Details: Pay slips, salary certificates, and bank statements showing salary deposits.
Personal Identification: Passport, Emirates ID, and passport-sized photographs.
3.Investors and Entrepreneurs:
Investment Proof: Financial statements, business plans, and other relevant documents.
Details: Shareholder certificates, investment contracts, and business registration documents.
Approval Documents: Approval of the investment from competent local authorities.
Details: Approval letters, compliance certificates, and licenses.
Investment Amount: Evidence of total invested capital if the investor has more than one license.
Personal Identification: Passport, Emirates ID, and passport-sized photographs.
Online vs. In-Person Application Procedures
1.Online Application:
Platform: Use the official UAE immigration portals like GDRFA or ICP.
Steps:
Create an account or log in to the portal.
Select the Green Visa application.
Fill in the application form with accurate details.
Upload the required documents.
Pay the application fees using the provided payment methods.
Submit the application and wait for confirmation.
Advantages: Convenient, can be done from anywhere, saves time.
2.In-Person Application:
Location: Visit any Amer Center across the UAE.
Steps:
Collect an application form from the center.
Fill in the form with the necessary details.
Submit the form along with the required documents to the center’s staff.
Pay the application fees at the counter.
Receive a submission receipt and wait for further communication regarding your application status.
Advantages: Personal assistance available, immediate submission confirmation.
Fees and Payment Methods
1.Application Fees:
The fee structure varies depending on the applicant category and the specifics of the application. Typical fees include processing fees and service charges.
Freelancers/Self-Employed: AED 360,000 proof of income-related fees.
Skilled Employees: AED 15,000 salary-related fees.
Investors/Entrepreneurs: Fees related to investment approvals and documentation.
2.Payment Methods:
Online: Payments can be made via credit or debit card directly on the portal.
In-Person: Payments can be made using cash, credit, or debit card at the Amer Centers.
By following these steps and preparing the necessary documentation, you can efficiently apply for the UAE Green Visa and take advantage of its numerous benefits. For more detailed information, you can refer to the official guidelines on the UAE Government Portal, MoHRE, GDRFA, and ICP.
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UAE Green Visa Application: 5 Years Green Visa UAE
1.Determine Eligibility:
Identify which category you fall into: Freelancer/Self-employed, Skilled Employee, or Investor/Entrepreneur.
Review the specific criteria for your category to ensure you meet all requirements.
2.Gather Required Documents:
Collect all necessary documents (detailed below) to support your application.
3.Prepare Documents:
Ensure all documents are current and correctly formatted. Make copies where required and translate any non-English/Arabic documents if necessary.
4.Submit Application:
Choose between online submission or in-person application at Amer Centers (detailed below).
5.Pay Fees:
Pay the necessary application fees through the designated methods.
6.Complete Background Check:
Be prepared to undergo a background check as part of the application process.
7.Receive Confirmation:
Once your application is processed, you will receive confirmation of your Green Visa status.
Required Documents and How to Prepare Them
The required documents vary based on the applicant category:
1.Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
Freelance/Self-Employment Permit: Obtain from MoHRE.
Educational Documents: Proof of bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma.
Income Proof: Evidence of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years amounting to at least AED 360,000, or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
Details: Include bank statements, tax returns, and financial affidavits.
Personal Identification: Passport, Emirates ID, and passport-sized photographs.
2.Skilled Employees:
Employment Contract: Valid contract from your employer.
Occupational Classification: Proof of classification within the first, second, or third occupational level as per MoHRE.
Educational Documents: Proof of bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Salary Proof: Documentation showing a salary of at least AED 15,000 per month.
Details: Pay slips, salary certificates, and bank statements showing salary deposits.
Personal Identification: Passport, Emirates ID, and passport-sized photographs.
3.Investors and Entrepreneurs:
Investment Proof: Financial statements, business plans, and other relevant documents.
Details: Shareholder certificates, investment contracts, and business registration documents.
Approval Documents: Approval of the investment from competent local authorities.
Details: Approval letters, compliance certificates, and licenses.
Investment Amount: Evidence of total invested capital if the investor has more than one license.
Personal Identification: Passport, Emirates ID, and passport-sized photographs.
Online vs. In-Person Application Procedures for UAE Green Visa Application
1.Online Application:
Platform: Use the official UAE immigration portals like GDRFA or ICP.
Steps:
Create an account or log in to the portal.
Select the Green Visa application.
Fill in the application form with accurate details.
Upload the required documents.
Pay the application fees using the provided payment methods.
Submit the application and wait for confirmation.
Advantages: Convenient, can be done from anywhere, saves time.
2.In-Person Application:
Location: Visit any Amer Center across the UAE.
Steps:
Collect an application form from the center.
Fill in the form with the necessary details.
Submit the form along with the required documents to the center’s staff.
Pay the application fees at the counter.
Receive a submission receipt and wait for further communication regarding your application status.
Advantages: Personal assistance available, immediate submission confirmation.
Fees and Payment Methods for Green Visa UAE Price
1.Application Fees:
The fee structure varies depending on the applicant category and the specifics of the application. Typical fees include processing fees and service charges.
Freelancers/Self-Employed: AED 360,000 proof of income-related fees.
Skilled Employees: AED 15,000 salary-related fees.
Investors/Entrepreneurs: Fees related to investment approvals and documentation.
2.Payment Methods:
Online: Payments can be made via credit or debit card directly on the portal.
In-Person: Payments can be made using cash, credit, or debit card at the Amer Centers.
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Renewal and Cancellation of the UAE Green Visa
The UAE Green Visa offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a long-term stay, but what happens when the five years are up? Good news—renewing your Green Visa is straightforward, provided you meet certain conditions. Here’s what you need to know:
1.Maintained Eligibility: Ensure you still meet the original eligibility criteria. For freelancers and self-employed individuals, this means continuing to hold a valid freelance/self-employment permit, maintaining the required income level, and ensuring financial solvency. Skilled employees need to keep their employment status, maintain their occupational classification, and ensure their salary meets the minimum requirement. Investors and entrepreneurs should continue to show active investments and obtain necessary approvals from local authorities.
2.Document Preparation: Just like the initial application, you’ll need to gather and submit the required documents. This includes updated financial statements, employment contracts, investment proofs, and personal identification documents.
3.Timely Application: Start the renewal process well before your current visa expires to avoid any last-minute hiccups. The renewal process can be done through the same channels as the initial application—online portals or Amer Centers.
Circumstances Under Which the Visa Can Be Canceled
While the UAE Green Visa provides many benefits, there are certain situations where it can be canceled:
1.Violation of UAE Laws: Engaging in illegal activities or violating the UAE's laws can result in the immediate cancellation of your visa.
2.Failure to Maintain Eligibility: If you no longer meet the criteria under which your visa was granted, such as failing to maintain the required income level or losing your job without securing another that fits the eligibility requirements, your visa may be canceled.
3.Extended Absence: Being outside the UAE for an extended period without valid reasons can lead to visa cancellation. Generally, you should not stay outside the UAE for more than six consecutive months.
4.Fraudulent Information: Providing false information or fraudulent documents during your visa application process can result in cancellation.
Procedures for Renewal and Cancellation
1.Renewal Procedures:
Online Submission: Renew your visa through the official UAE immigration portals like GDRFA or ICP. Log in, select the renewal option, fill in the necessary details, and upload the required documents.
In-Person Submission: Visit an Amer Center, submit your renewal application along with the required documents, and pay the renewal fees.
Fees: The renewal fees are similar to the initial application fees. Ensure to check the latest fee structure on the official portals.
2.Cancellation Procedures:
Voluntary Cancellation: If you need to cancel your visa voluntarily, you can do so by submitting a cancellation request through the official portals or visiting an Amer Center. This might be necessary if you are leaving the UAE permanently or switching to another visa type.
Employer-Initiated Cancellation: For skilled employees, if your employment is terminated, your employer is responsible for initiating the visa cancellation process. This is done through the MoHRE and GDRFA.
Notification and Confirmation: After submitting a cancellation request, you will receive a confirmation once the process is complete. Make sure to obtain the cancellation paper for your records.
Rights and Responsibilities of Green Visa Holders
As a holder of the UAE Green Visa, you enjoy several legal rights and protections that ensure your stay in the UAE is secure and beneficial:
1.Residency Rights:
You are granted a long-term residency of five years, which can be renewed upon meeting the renewal criteria.
You can sponsor your family members, including your spouse, children, and parents, allowing them to live with you in the UAE.
2.Work and Business Rights:
You have the flexibility to work for multiple employers, start your own business, or engage in freelance activities without needing a sponsor.
You are protected by UAE labor laws, which cover aspects like working hours, leave entitlements, end-of-service benefits, and dispute resolution.
3.Legal Protections:
You have access to the UAE legal system to resolve any disputes or issues.
You are protected under UAE laws against unfair treatment, discrimination, and harassment.
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Responsibilities and Obligations to Maintain Visa Status
To maintain your UAE Green Visa status, you must adhere to certain responsibilities and obligations:
1.Compliance with UAE Laws:
Abide by all UAE laws and regulations, including labor laws, business regulations, and general conduct laws.
Avoid engaging in any illegal activities, as violations can lead to visa cancellation and legal repercussions.
2.Maintain Eligibility:
Ensure you continuously meet the eligibility criteria under which your visa was granted. For example, freelancers should maintain their income levels, skilled workers should keep their employment status, and investors should sustain their business activities.
3.Financial Solvency:
Demonstrate financial solvency throughout your stay in the UAE. This includes maintaining sufficient income or investment levels as required by your visa category.
4.Timely Renewals and Updates:
Apply for visa renewal before your current visa expires.
Update your personal information, such as address and contact details, with the relevant authorities promptly.
Employment and Business Regulations for Visa Holders
The UAE Green Visa provides substantial flexibility in employment and business activities, but certain regulations must be followed:
1.Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
Obtain and maintain a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
Adhere to regulations regarding invoicing, tax payments, and business operations.
2.Skilled Employees:
Hold a valid employment contract and ensure that your job role is classified within the approved occupational levels by MoHRE.
Maintain the minimum required salary and comply with employment terms and conditions.
3.Investors and Entrepreneurs:
Obtain necessary approvals for investments and business activities from competent local authorities.
Ensure that your business operations comply with UAE business laws, including company registration, licensing, and financial reporting.
UAE Green Visa vs. UAE Golden Visa
The UAE offers two prominent long-term residency options to attract talent, investors, and professionals: the Green Visa and the Golden Visa. Here’s a detailed comparison of these two visa types:
Purpose and Target Audience
UAE Green Visa:
Target Audience: Skilled workers, freelancers, self-employed individuals, and investors.
Purpose: To provide long-term residency without requiring a sponsor, thereby attracting skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to contribute to the UAE’s economy.
UAE Golden Visa:
Target Audience: Investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, researchers, and outstanding students, including real estate investors and senior managers.
Purpose: To attract and retain highly skilled individuals and significant investors who will contribute to the UAE’s development in various sectors such as science, technology, and business.
Duration of Stay
UAE Green Visa:
Duration: 5 years.
Renewal: Renewable upon meeting the eligibility criteria and maintaining the required standards.
UAE Golden Visa:
Duration: 10 years.
Renewal: Renewable upon meeting the eligibility criteria, including sustained investment levels or continued professional excellence.
Eligibility Criteria
UAE Green Visa:
Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
Must obtain a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
Proof of a bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma.
Evidence of an annual income from self-employment for the previous two years amounting to at least AED 360,000, or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
Skilled Employees:
Valid employment contract.
Classified within the first, second, or third occupational level as per MoHRE.
Minimum salary of AED 15,000 per month.
Minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Investors and Entrepreneurs:
Proof of investment in commercial activities within the UAE.
Approval of the investment from competent local authorities.
Total invested capital considered if multiple licenses are held.
UAE Golden Visa:
Real Estate Investors:
Investment of at least AED 2 million in property.
The property must be retained for at least three years.
Mortgage considerations require at least AED 2 million of the property value to be paid off.
Managers and Directors:
Hold positions classified in the first or second occupational level as per MoHRE.
At least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Relevant managerial or director-level work experience.
Minimum monthly salary typically reflecting a high-income bracket.
General Investors:
Investment of at least AED 10 million in public investments or sectors approved by the UAE.
Retaining the investment for at least three years.
Entrepreneurs:
Owner of a project with a minimum capital of AED 500,000.
Approval from a business incubator in the UAE.
Exceptional Talents:
Individuals with proven talents in fields such as research, technology, and arts.
Approval from a recognized UAE entity.
Outstanding Students:
High-performing students in UAE schools and universities, and exceptional graduates from top universities worldwide.
Visa Benefits
UAE Green Visa:
Long-term residency without a sponsor.
Flexibility to work for multiple employers or start a business.
Family sponsorship including spouse, children, and parents.
Ease of travel with multiple entry and re-entry options.
Long-term residency of 10 years.
Family sponsorship including spouse, children, and dependents.
Residence for dependents even after the primary visa holder's death.
Multiple entry and re-entry options.
Potential for special privileges in certain sectors.
UAE Green Visa:
Online Submission: Through official UAE immigration portals like GDRFA or ICP.
In-Person Submission: At Amer Centers.
UAE Golden Visa:
Submission: Through GDRFA or designated offices for Golden Visa applications.
Evaluation: Applications are evaluated based on investment levels, professional achievements, and contributions to the UAE.
Visa Fees
UAE Green Visa:
The fee varies based on the category and specifics of the application. Typical fees include processing fees and service charges.
UAE Golden Visa:
The fee structure is generally higher due to the longer duration and the premium nature of the visa. This includes processing fees, investment verification charges, and other service fees.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the UAE Green Visa?
The UAE Green Visa is designed for skilled workers, freelancers, self-employed individuals, and investors. Specific eligibility criteria vary by category but generally include:
Freelancers and Self-Employed: Must have a freelance/self-employment permit, a bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma, and evidence of an annual income of at least AED 360,000 or proof of financial solvency.
Skilled Workers: Must have a valid employment contract, be classified in the first, second, or third occupational level as per MoHRE, hold at least a bachelor’s degree, and earn a minimum salary of AED 15,000 per month.
Investors: Must show evidence of investment in commercial activities within the UAE and obtain approval from competent local authorities.
2. What are the UAE Green Visa requirements for Pakistani citizens?
The requirements for Pakistani citizens are the same as for any other nationality. They need to meet the specific eligibility criteria based on their category (freelancer, skilled worker, investor) and provide the necessary documentation as outlined above.
3. How to apply for the UAE Green Visa?
Applications can be submitted online through the official UAE immigration portals such as GDRFA or ICP, or in-person at Amer Centers. Detailed steps include:
Creating an account or logging into the portal.
Filling out the application form.
Uploading the required documents.
Paying the application fees.
Submitting the application and awaiting confirmation.
How much does the Dubai Green Visa cost?
The cost of the Dubai Green Visa varies depending on the applicant category and specific details of the application. Typical fees include processing fees and service charges, which can be confirmed through the official portals or Amer Centers.
What are the UAE Green Visa requirements for investors?
Investors need to show evidence of investment in commercial activities within the UAE. This includes financial statements, business plans, and approval from competent local authorities. The total invested capital is considered if multiple licenses are held.
What should I do if my application is delayed?
If your application is delayed, you can:
Check the status online through the immigration portal you used to apply.
Contact the customer service of the portal for updates.
Visit an Amer Center for in-person assistance.
How can I get support if I face issues during the application process?
Support can be accessed through:
The official immigration portal's helpdesk or customer service.
Amer Centers, where staff can provide in-person assistance and guidance.
Consulting agencies or legal advisors specializing in UAE immigration.
1. Official Portals and Helpdesks:
GDRFA: Visit the GDRFA website or call their customer service.
ICP: Visit the ICP portal or contact their helpdesk.
2. Amer Centers:
You can visit any Amer Center across the UAE for in-person assistance. They offer comprehensive support for visa applications, renewals, and cancellations.
By choosing the UAE Green Visa or Golden Visa, you are not just securing a residency permit but also opening the door to a wealth of opportunities in one of the world's most dynamic and thriving environments.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only. The details mentioned are based on the best available information at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice due to possible updates in the educational policies or changes in the scheduling by the respective authorities. Readers are encouraged to consult the relevant offices directly for the most accurate and updated information.