Understanding UAE Residence Visas: Your Guide to Moving to Dubai
If you’re contemplating a significant move to Dubai or planning an extended stay, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the appropriate UAE residence visa that suits your needs. The United Arab Emirates government has launched its flagship UAE Entry and Residence Scheme, offering various options for those interested in relocating to the country.
For residents, the five-year green residence visa is a valuable option, while the blue visa, which came into effect in 2024, presents additional opportunities. Additionally, there are comprehensive criteria for obtaining the prestigious five or ten-year golden visa. Curious about what these options entail? Continue reading for a thorough overview of UAE residence and tourist visas.
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How to Obtain a UAE Residence Visa
The duration of a residence visa can differ based on its type and your sponsor, typically your employer or educational institution. Visas can be granted for one, two, three, five, or even ten years, depending on your individual situation. If you are over 18 and seeking a UAE residence visa, you will be required to undergo a medical examination, pass a security clearance, and apply for an Emirates ID.
The Required Documents for a UAE Residence Visa
- A medical fitness certificate (mandatory for applicants over 18)
- A recent, clear, colored passport-sized photo taken within the past six months, with a plain white background (40mm x 35mm)
- A valid copy of your passport
- A valid copy of your sponsor’s passport with a current residence permit
- An attested birth certificate for dependents (children)
- An entry permit
- The Emirates ID application receipt
- A housing lease agreement or proof of property ownership
- Medical insurance or health card
- A residence photo of the mother (for newborns)
For divorced or widowed women, additional documentation is required, including proof of housing, a divorce or death certificate, and evidence of financial independence.
You can conveniently apply for a residence visa online through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. To enhance the chances of your photo being accepted, adhere to the following guidelines:
- The photo must be a close-up of your head and shoulders, with your face occupying 70-80% of the image.
- The photo should be sharp, in focus, taken with a digital camera, and feature a neutral color tone against a light-colored background.
- Head coverings are permitted only for religious reasons, but the final image must clearly show your face.
Exploring the Green Residence Visa
The five-year green residence visa was established to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, and freelancers who may not qualify for residency through traditional employer or sponsor routes. Eligibility is based on your salary and qualifications, making this visa particularly appealing for established freelancers and small business owners.
Green residence holders can extend the benefits to their family members for five years and maintain their residency status for six months after their visa expires or is canceled. If you’re considering long-term residency in Dubai, you can apply for this visa through the Government of Dubai.
Green Residence Criteria for Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals
- Obtain a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- Provide proof of a bachelor’s degree or a specialized diploma.
- Demonstrate an annual income from self-employment for the previous two years totaling at least Dhs360,000 or prove financial solvency during your stay in the UAE.
Green Residence Criteria for Skilled Employees
- Possess a valid employment contract.
- Be classified in one of the top three occupational levels according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- Hold at least a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent diploma.
- Receive a minimum salary of Dhs15,000 per month.
Green Residence Criteria for Investors
- Get approval from the relevant local authorities.
- Receive endorsement from the ICP (the government’s smart service portal) regarding your investment based on the investor rating system.
- Provide proof of your investment or, if applicable, the total amount invested across multiple licenses will be considered.
If you’re interested in applying for the UAE green visa, you can do so through the Government of Dubai.
The UAE Golden Visa Process
Initially, the golden visa was granted to residents who made significant contributions to the country or excelled in specific fields. However, as of 2023, the application process has been significantly broadened, allowing more individuals to qualify.
Who Can Apply for the Golden Residence Scheme?
- Investors
- Entrepreneurs
- Exceptional talents
- Scientists
- Professionals
- Outstanding students and graduates
- Humanitarian pioneers
- Frontline heroes
Holders of the golden visa can sponsor family members for ten years without any limit on the number of domestic workers. Furthermore, in the event of the golden visa holder’s passing, their family members can remain in the country for the duration of the permit. Interested in finding out if you qualify? Learn more here.
The UAE Blue Visa Explained
The UAE blue visa is the latest long-term residency option introduced by the UAE government to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental protection. This visa grants a residency period of ten years.
Who Can Apply for the UAE Blue Visa?
- Individuals supporting environmental initiatives within and outside the UAE.
- Members of international organizations and companies making a positive environmental impact.
- Members of associations and NGOs contributing to environmental protection.
- Global award winners in the environmental sector.
- Distinguished activists and researchers in environmental work, including both Emirati nationals and responsible residents.
If you identify with any of the above categories, you can apply for the ten-year blue residence visa here.
Humanitarian Crisis Visas
The UAE government is committed to providing residence visas to individuals facing humanitarian crises. These visas are available to widowed mothers, parents, or children of UAE citizens, as well as spouses of GCC citizens.
Benefits for Family Members and Dependents Under Visa Rules
As of 2023, parents holding any type of visa can sponsor their children until the age of 25. Furthermore, parents can sponsor unmarried female children of any age, while children with special needs will receive a residency permit regardless of their age. Holders of green residence visas can issue residency permits for their first-degree relatives, which will be valid for the same duration as their own visa.
Visiting Dubai: Short-Term Options
For those who wish to visit Dubai without committing to long-term residency, there are numerous options available for short-term visitors. Explore our comprehensive guide detailing all eleven visit and tourist visa options available to you.
Different Types of Dubai Visit and Tourist Visas
- Single-entry tourist visit visa
- Multi-entry tourist visa
- 5-year multi-entry tourist visa
- Single-entry visa for visiting friends or relatives
- Multi-entry visa for visiting friends or relatives
- Student visit visa
- Job opportunity visit visa
- Visit visa for exploring business opportunities
- A medical visit visa
- Escort treatment visit visa
- Multiple entry visit visa for truck drivers
Stay tuned with Time Out Dubai for the latest updates.
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