Author: Hanoof Al Naama
Published: September 12, 2024
Category: Entrepreneurship
As the world economy transcends novel levels, countries have been modifying their rules and regulations. In order to facilitate talented and skilled workers, the UAE has introduced a 5-year Green residence visa. This visa type will allow for flexibility in the job market while fostering a high sense of stability amongst residents and families.
The Green Visa is specifically designed for exceptional talents, skilled professionals, freelancers, entrepreneurs and investors. These individuals would not need a sponsor or employee through this visa type.
The UAE Green Visa offers several key benefits to holders:
Investors participating in or establishing commercial activities are eligible for a green residence visa. This visa type replaces its predecessor, valid for only two years.
Eligibility Conditions for Investors:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| License | Valid license from any EDDs or FZs |
| Investment Amount | Minimum 1 million |
| Documentation | Approval of investment or proof of investment |
| Authority Approval | Approval of local authorities in the area |
Skilled labourers who meet specific professional and educational criteria are eligible for the Green Visa.
Eligibility Conditions for Skilled Labour:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Skill Category | Must fall under skilled labour category in levels 1, 2 or 3 |
| Education | Minimum bachelor's degree |
| Salary | Monthly salary not less than 15K |
| Employment | Valid employment contract |
Freelancers worldwide have been gaining rapid momentum. The UAE welcomes freelancers and/or self-employed individuals.
Eligibility Conditions for Freelancers:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Work Permit | Valid work permit from the relevant authorities |
| Education | Minimum bachelor's degree |
| Income | Annual income from freelance work not less than 360K in the previous two years |
The first step in applying for a green residence visa is to submit your documents. These will vary depending on your current status. As a skilled labourer or investor, you may need to have:
Depending upon your green residence visa status, you may need to have a follow-up with the relevant authorities. Moreover, additional documents may be required.
Once the documents and visa application fees have been submitted, the visa will be issued soon.
SPC Free Zone helps individuals obtain relevant business licenses and visas for the free zone. With SPC Free Zone, you can also take advantage of:
SPC Free Zone provides business owners the tools and knowledge they need to navigate their way through business setup in the UAE.
The Green Visa offers obtaining residency permits for family members (spouse, children, first-degree relatives), ability to sponsor male children up to 25 years with no limitation for unmarried daughters, residence visas for children of determination regardless of age, and a six-month grace period to stay in UAE after residence permit cancellation or expiration.
Three categories are eligible: Investors/Partners with valid license and minimum 1 million investment, Skilled Labour with bachelor's degree and minimum 15K monthly salary, and Freelancers with work permit and minimum 360K annual income from freelance work in previous two years.
Required documents vary by status but may include valid employment contract, proof of investment, educational certificate, approval from authorities, and proof of commercial activity.
The UAE Green Visa is a 5-year residence visa.
Once the residence permit is cancelled or expired, there is a six-month grace period to stay in the UAE.
Yes, Green Visa holders can obtain residency permits for family members including spouse, children, and first-degree relatives. Male children can be sponsored up to age 25, with no limitation for unmarried daughters.
About SPC Free Zone
SPC Free Zone is a business setup authority in Sharjah, UAE, providing comprehensive services for company formation, licensing, and visa processing.