Applying For A UAE Green Visa: A Step by Step Guide

November 14, 2023 by Middle East Briefing

New visa category offers 5 year residency status for entrepreneurs and skilled workers and their families

The UAE government has introduced a variety of new entry visas and residence permits as well as expanded the categories of Golden Visas. One of these is the UAE green visa. The UAE’s Green visa is a type of residence visa, that allows its holder to sponsor himself/herself for 5 years, eliminating the need for a UAE national or employer to sponsor his/her visa, and allowing skilled employees, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs to live and work in the country.

Entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors can live and work in the UAE with their family members with a 5-year Dubai Green Visa.

The UAE government introduced this visa category in 2022.

Green Visa UAE Eligibility

For anyone to be able to apply for the UAE green visa, they must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Skilled Employees

To apply for green residence for skilled employees, you must be employed in the UAE and must provide a valid employment contract.
According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, you must hold a job at the first, second, or third occupational level.
You must hold a minimum educational level of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
Your monthly salary must be at least AED 15,000.

Freelancers and Self-Employed

You have a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
Proof of self-employment, such as business licenses, tax returns, and business receipts.
You must hold a minimum educational level of a bachelor’s degree or a specialized diploma evidence.
Your annual income from self-employment for the past two years must be at least AED 360,000.
You must demonstrate your financial solvency or that you will remain financially stable while in the UAE.

UAE Investors & Business Partners

If you promote investments by engaging or developing commercial enterprises in UAE.
You must have the approval of the investment from competent local authorities in UAE and proof of investment.
The total invested capital will be determined if the investor or partner has more than one license.
It is necessary to have the relevant municipal authorities’ approval.

Green Visa Dubai Requirements

You must have the following documents when applying for a UAE green visa:

A valid passport for at least six months
A copy of your passport-size photograph on white background
Proof of medical reports from competent local authorities
Proof of health insurance or health card
A valid entry permit
Proof of qualification
Proof of employment or freelancing permit from MOHRE
A duly filled application form
Additional documents might be required to sponsor your family members, such as:
Proof of rental contract (certified) or owning a residence.
A copy of the sponsor’s passport with a valid residence permit.
A valid job contract in UAE from the sponsor
Birth certificate for the sponsored.
Attested marriage certificate in English or Arabic.

Can Indians Get A Green Visa Dubai?

Yes, Indians are eligible to apply for the Dubai Green Visa. The goal behind the launch of the Green Visa regime is to retain skilled workers and attract exceptional talents and new investments into the country to grow economic wealth. This visa category is lucrative due to the relaxed, simplified requirements and ease of application since you do not need a sponsor to apply.

How To Apply For UAE Green Visa?

To apply for a UAE green card for you or your family members, you must start by applying for an entry permit that allows them to travel to the country.

Here are the detailed steps on how you can apply for your green visa:

Step 1: Visit The Website

You start the application on the UAE visa system – ICP website. You can also visit one of the typing centers or customer happiness centers in the UAE to start the application process.

On the ICP website, you can search for ‘Issuing Residency Visa’ in the search bar. Or search for ‘Entry Permits’ on the GDRAFD website, then click on ‘Entry Permit Services,’ and lastly, select the ‘New Entry Permit for Green Residence’ option.

Step 2: Start The Application

The next step is to choose the relevant green visa type from one of the following options on GDRFAD:

Issuing Entry Permit for Green Residence (Partner)
Issuing Entry Permit for Green Residence (Investor)
Issuing Entry Permit for Green Residence (High Skilled Worker)
Issuing Entry Permit for Green Residence (Self-Employment)

On the ICP website, you must similarly choose the relevant visa type. Once you have selected the visa type, you can click on ‘Start Services’ to start the application process. Here you will need to log into your GDRFAD website or use your UAE pass to apply on the ICP website.

Step 3: Fill Out The Application

After signing in, you will be prompted to a new page where you must select the visa type and start filling out the application. First, you must provide the necessary information, such as your name, Emirates ID number, residential address, passport details, etc.

Step 4: Upload The Documents

Depending on your visa type, the supporting documents that must be submitted will differ. So make sure you are uploading the correct documents.

Any missing documents can be uploaded on the portal or submitted within 30 days of notification. If you fail to submit it, it can result in the cancellation of your visa application.

Step 5: Pay The Visa Fees

You must review your application and pay the relevant visa fees before submitting your Green visa application.

Step 6: Processing Of Green Visa

Once the application has been submitted, you must wait for the visa to be processed. During this time, you will receive notifications on your email and phone number regarding your application status.

Once the visa is approved, you will receive a notification.

About Us

Dezan Shira & Associates assist foreign investors into the UAE and have an office in Dubai. For assistance and advise concerning visa and business establishment matters, please email us at dubai@dezshira.com and read our extensive ‘Doing Business in Dubai” guide below.

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