By Prime Star 
The UAE Green Visa is an innovative residence permit designed to attract skilled professionals, investors, freelancers, and self-employed individuals. Launched to provide greater flexibility, autonomy, and opportunities for talented individuals, the Green Visa offers several benefits, including self-sponsorship, long-term residency options, and family residency. If you’re considering securing a UAE Visa, here’s everything you need to know.
What is the UAE Green Visa?
The UAE Green Visa is a five-year residence permit that offers many advantages over traditional work visas. Unlike traditional residency options that require a sponsor, such as an employer or family, the Green Visa allows individuals to self-sponsor, giving them more freedom in their personal and professional lives.
The Green Visa is designed for highly skilled employees, freelancers, investors, and talented individuals in the UAE, aiming to boost the nation’s economy by attracting talent and expertise.
Who is Eligible for the UAE Green Visa?
There are three primary categories of people who can apply for a UAE Green Visa:
1. Skilled Employees:
To apply for the Green Visa under this category, applicants must meet specific qualifications. This includes having a valid employment contract with a UAE-based employer, being classified within the top three occupational levels as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), and earning a monthly salary of at least AED 15,000. Additionally, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
2. Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
Freelancers and self-employed individuals who want to apply for the Green Visa must obtain a freelance or self-employment permit issued by MoHRE. A bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma is required, along with proof of a minimum annual income of AED 360,000 from self-employment over the past two years. Alternatively, freelancers can show they are financially solvent to cover their stay in the UAE.
3. Investors and Partners:
Investors or business partners who have invested in or are partners of a UAE-based company are also eligible for the Green Visa. The minimum investment is typically around AED 1 million. In addition, investors need to obtain approval from the relevant local authorities to validate their investments.
Step-by-Step Process to Secure the UAE Green Visa – Never Miss Out!
If you meet the requirements for the UAE Green Visa, here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply:
Step 1: Check If You Are Eligible
Before you start the application process, you need to check if you qualify for the Green Visa. Review the conditions for your category (whether you’re a skilled employee, freelancer, or investor). Make sure that you meet all the necessary requirements, such as salary levels, qualifications, and income.
If you’re not sure whether you meet the requirements, you can ask for help from immigration experts or check the official UAE government websites for more information.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
Next, you will need to collect all the documents required for your application. The documents you need depend on which category you are applying under. However, most applicants will need the following:
- A valid passport
- A recent photograph
- Proof of your education, such as a bachelor’s degree or diploma
- Your job contract (for employees) or freelance permit (for freelancers)
- Proof of income or investment details
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation (where you will stay in the UAE)
- Security clearance, if required
Make sure all your documents are up-to-date and complete before submitting them. If any documents are not in Arabic or English, you may need to get them translated.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application. You can do this online through the UAE government’s official portal, or you can visit an authorized service center. The application process is straightforward:
- Fill out the application form
- Upload all the required documents
- Pay the application fee (this may vary depending on your category)
Double-check everything before submitting to avoid mistakes or missing documents. A complete and accurate application will help avoid delays.
Step 4: Wait for Approval
After you submit your application, the UAE authorities will review it. They may ask for additional information or documents if needed. If everything is in order, they will approve your Green Visa.
The approval process may take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on how many applications are being processed at the time. Be patient, and check your email or the application portal for updates.
Step 5: Receive Your Green Visa
Once your application is approved, you will receive your Green Visa. This visa is valid for five years, and you can renew it after that. The Green Visa gives you more freedom compared to traditional work visas. You can sponsor yourself, and you do not need an employer to renew your visa.
Benefits of the UAE Green Visa – Don’t Miss Out!
The UAE Green Visa offers several important benefits that make it an attractive option for skilled workers, freelancers, and investors:
- Self-Sponsorship: The Green Visa allows you to sponsor yourself. This means you do not need an employer to sponsor your visa, giving you more freedom to work or live in the UAE.
- Family Sponsorship: Green Visa holders can sponsor their immediate family members, such as their spouse, children, and parents. This makes it easier for families to live together in the UAE.
- Job Flexibility: If you hold a Green Visa, you can change jobs or employers without losing your residency status. This gives you more job security and flexibility compared to other visa types.
- Longer Grace Period: If your visa expires or is canceled, you have up to six months to stay in the country before you need to leave or renew your visa. This gives you more time to make arrangements without worrying about losing your visa status.
FAQs about securing the UAE Green Visa:
1. Do I need an employer to sponsor me for the UAE Green Visa?
No, one of the main benefits of the UAE Green Visa is that you do not need an employer to sponsor you. Unlike other types of visas, the Green Visa allows you to sponsor yourself, meaning you can live and work in the UAE without depending on your employer for visa renewal or job change.
2. How long does it take to get the UAE Green Visa?
After applying for the UAE Green Visa, it can take a few weeks to a couple of months to get approval. The authorities will check your documents and may ask for more information. Once they approve your application, you will receive your Green Visa.
3. Can I bring my family with a UAE Green Visa?
Yes, you can bring your immediate family (spouse, children, and parents) to live with you in the UAE. The Green Visa allows you to sponsor your family, so they can stay in the country with you.
4. Can I change my employer while holding a UAE Green Visa?
Yes, one of the key advantages of the UAE Green Visa is that it allows job flexibility. You can change your employer without losing your residency status. This is a significant benefit, as it gives you the freedom to explore new job opportunities or switch employers without the risk of losing your visa.
5. What happens if my UAE Green Visa expires or is canceled?
If your UAE Green Visa expires or is canceled, you are granted a grace period of up to six months to stay in the UAE. During this time, you can either renew your visa or make arrangements to leave the country. This grace period helps you avoid any legal issues or fines due to overstaying your visa.
Final Thoughts:
The UAE Green Visa is a great opportunity for skilled workers, freelancers, and investors who want to live and work in the UAE. By following the simple steps outlined above—checking your eligibility, gathering your documents, submitting your application, and waiting for approval—you can increase your chances of successfully securing the Green Visa.
Mehdi Naveed 
Husnain