If you’re looking for a way to live and work in the UAE with independence and freedom, the region’s Green Visa program might be a good fit for you. The UAE’s Green Visa stands out because it gives holders the chance to sponsor themselves for five years, removing the need for a UAE national or employer for sponsorship. Staying true to its name, the Green Visa acts as a catalyst for sustainability as it attracts skilled professionals and investors with an eye for environmental stewardship.

If you’re considering applying for a Green Visa, this blog is a great place to start as it delves into the details of the Green Visa program.

AN OVERVIEW OF THE GREEN VISA

Departing from the traditional system where expatriates require a sponsor to live and work in the UAE, this new visa option paves the way for students, graduates, investors, and entrepreneurs to reside in the UAE for up to five years.

Under the Green Visa program, holders have an extended window of 90 to 180 days for document renewal, in comparison to the previous 30-day window. This translates to added flexibility for Green Visa holders.

ELIGIBILITY AND CRITERIA

The following categories of individuals are eligible for a UAE Green Visa:

Skilled Professionals

Professionals such as company directors, executives, and those in scientific, technical, and human fields, come into this category. Basic criteria involve a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000 and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.

Students and Graduates

Bright students and fresh graduates seeking employment and residence in the UAE are also eligible for a Green Visa, subject to specific criteria. This ensures that only the best talents have the chance to live and work in the region.

Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals

If you are a freelancer or self-employed individual in fields such as AI, blockchain, and digital currencies, you are eligible to apply for a Green Visa. Basic criteria include a bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma and a minimum income of AED 360,000 over the last two years, along with financial solvency during the period of residence.

Investors and Partners

Investors seeking to engage in commercial activities in the UAE can also obtain a Green Visa, subject to investment approval and proof, as well as approvals from relevant local authorities.

Job Categories Covered

The Green Visa in the UAE encompasses a wide range of job categories across three occupational levels defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). For a complete list of occupations within these occupational levels, refer to MoHRE’s official guidelines.

BENEFITS OF A GREEN VISA

Some of the key advantages of a UAE Green Visa include:

Family Sponsorship

Holders can apply for residency permits for their children, spouses, and first-degree relatives. Sons of holders can be sponsored up to the age of 25, and unmarried daughters can be sponsored without age limitations. Provisions are also in place for children with special needs. Family members enjoy the same residency status as the original Green Visa holder.

Grace Period

In the event of the cancellation or expiration of a residence permit, Green Visa holders are granted a grace period of up to 6 months to stay in the UAE.

Entry Work Permit

To streamline the process for Green Visa applicants, they have the opportunity to complete their application with the assistance of a 60-day entry work permit upon arrival in the UAE.

THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the application procedure:

Step 1: Start The Application

Select the appropriate Green Visa type based on your eligibility category via the online portal and click on ‘Start Services’. You will need to log into your GDRFAD website account or use your UAE pass to apply on the ICP website. Speak to SetHub’s consultants for guidance in choosing the appropriate Green Visa type.

Step 2: Fill Out The Application

Provide information such as your name, Emirates ID number, residential address, passport details, and any other requested details. SetHub will support you in filling out the application form accurately.

Step 3: Upload The Documents

Upload the correct documents according to your category. Missing documents can be uploaded directly on the portal or submitted within 30 days of notification. If documents are not submitted in time, your visa application may be canceled. Speak to SetHub’s experts for guidance on which documents are required for your Green Visa category to avoid penalties for missing documents.

Step 4: Pay The Visa Fees

Make the payment for the applicable visa fees before finalizing and submitting your Green Visa application.

The following payments are required:

• AED 2280 for the Green Visa
• AED 575 for the ID card
• AED 320 for the standard medical fees

Step 5: Processing Of Green Visa

Soon after submission, your application will be processed. Throughout this period, you will receive notifications regarding your application status through email and phone messages. Once approved, you will receive a notification confirming your new visa status.

DOCUMENTATION AND REQUIREMENTS

Here is a brief overview of the documents that will be required for your Green Visa application. These may vary depending on your eligibility category.

For Green Visa Applicants:

• Passport with a minimum of six months validity from the date of application.
• Recent passport-size photograph with a white background.
• Proof of medical reports.
• Health insurance coverage.
• Valid entry permit to initiate the Green Visa application process.
• Proof of your qualifications, such as educational certificates or diplomas.
• If applicable, a valid employment contract or freelancing permit issued by the MOHRE.

Additional Documents for Sponsoring Family Members:

• Documentation verifying your residence, such as a certified rental contract or proof of property ownership.
• Copy of the sponsor’s passport with a valid residence permit.
• Valid job contract in the UAE, issued by the sponsor’s employer.
• Birth certificate of the family member(s) you intend to sponsor.
• If applicable, attested marriage certificate in either English or Arabic.

RENEWAL AND COMPLIANCE

Once your Green Visa expires, you are at liberty to renew the same, subject to certain terms and conditions. You must be prepared to pay the relevant visa renewal fees as well. To maintain your Green Visa status, the program has certain regulations that you must abide by. These conditions vary depending on the category of your Green Visa. It is important to ensure that your employment or business activities within the UAE are compliant with local regulations.

In Conclusion,

The UAE’s Green Visa program is one of the many ways to maintain long-term residency in the UAE. Designed to attract and retain the best talent that the world has to offer, eligible professionals can gain access to many benefits offered by this promising region. If you are looking to start a new life or extend your length of stay in the UAE, reach out to SetHub’s consultants to seamlessly initiate this process.