UAE Green Visa 2025: What Do We Know About the New UAE Residency Visa Scheme?

UAE Green Visa  offered a new housing system for lives in UAE by replacing other visa policies of UAE immigration. Beginning from the year 2022 and reviewed in 2024, this cultural policy targets those who are self-employed, or digital freelancers, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. With the UAE aiming at attracting talent from across the world, and as the economy grows, the program will help bring talent into the economy.

Consider the program for a residence permit. It offers the freedom, security, and opportunities of living in a top country. All this and much more is provided by the UAE Green Visa.

The UAE has a strategic location, business-friendly environment, and world-class infrastructure. What makes the Green Visa UAE more alluring is its ecosystem for people to live their personal and professional lives to the fullest. The Green Visa is changing residency in the region. It allows families to be sponsored and to pursue opportunities without employer sponsorship. Let’s take a closer look at this exciting new initiative.

Green Visa UAE is an independent visa. It doesn’t need employer sponsorship. It gives its holder a guaranteed 5-year residency and all its benefits. This visa scheme is ideal if you are a freelancer, business owner, or expatriate who wants some of their family integrated into the country.

How the Green Visa Differs from Standard Work Visas

In the past, most foreign workers in the UAE needed an employer to sponsor their visas. This meant your legal stay depended on a single job. If you left that job, you often had to leave the country unless you found another sponsor.

The Green Visa changes this. You can sponsor yourself for five years. You do not need to rely on an employer. This gives you more freedom to switch jobs, start a business, or work as a freelancer. It also makes it easier to explore company formation in Dubai or other emirates.

Why the Green Visa Matters Now

Around the world, remote work, freelancing, and flexible careers are on the rise. People want more control over their work and life. The UAE Green Visa fits into this trend. It allows professionals to set their own path without worrying about traditional visa limits. By 2025, as global business shifts, the Green Visa can help you take advantage of new opportunities in a fast-growing region.

Applying for a UAE Green Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide

This is because the process of applying for the UAE Green Visa is exceptionally straightforward due to the ease of functioning of systems in the UAE. Here is a step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible

First, see if you meet the requirements for one of these groups:

• Skilled Employees:
  • You have a valid job contract in the UAE.
  • You hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
  • You earn at least AED 15,000 per month.
  • Your job is listed as a skilled occupation (levels 1, 2, or 3) by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
• Freelancers & Self-Employed People:
  • You have a freelance or self-employment permit from MoHRE.
  • You hold at least a bachelor’s degree or a diploma.
  • You earned at least AED 360,000 over the last two years from freelance work, or you can show that you have enough money to live on while in the UAE.
• Investors & Business Partners:
  • You have an approved investment or partnership in a UAE business.
  • You can show proof of your investment and have permission from the local authorities.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

Make sure you have:

• A passport valid for at least six months
• A recent passport-size photo on a white background
• Proof of your education (bachelor’s degree or similar)
• A job contract (for skilled employees) or a freelance/self-employment permit (for freelancers)
• Financial documents (like bank statements, salary certificates, or investment approvals)
• Any other documents the UAE authorities ask for

Step 3: Choose the Right Online Portal

You can apply for the Green Visa online. There are two main options:

• ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security)
• GDRFAD (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai)

Check the official websites to see which one fits your situation best.

Step 4: Fill Out the Online Application

On the chosen website, look for “Issuing Entry Permit for Green Residence” or a similar option. Then:

• Enter your personal details (name, nationality, address)
• Provide information about your job or investment
• Upload your documents in clear, readable scans

Step 5: Pay the Fees

The base fee is about AED 200 plus 5% tax. You may also need to pay for:

• Medical tests and health insurance
• Emirates ID fees
• Document translations and attestations (if needed)
• Extra fees if you’re already inside the UAE and applying from there

Pay securely online with a credit or debit card.

Step 6: Wait for Approval

It often takes about 48 hours to process your application, but the time can vary. You’ll get updates by email or SMS. If you need to fix any problems or send more documents, do it right away to avoid delays.

Step 7: Get Your Entry Permit or Visa

If your application is approved and you’re outside the UAE, you’ll get an entry permit. This lets you enter the country and finish any steps left, like medical checks or getting your Emirates ID. If you’re already in the UAE, follow the instructions given to finalize your residence status.

Step 8: Start Your New Life in the UAE

With your Green Visa, you can live and work in the UAE for five years without needing an employer sponsor. You can sponsor your family, try new job opportunities, or even start a business, such as company formation in Dubai. Enjoy the freedom and stability that the UAE Green Visa offers.

Key Point:
The UAE Green Visa gives you a chance to live and work in the UAE on your own terms. By following these steps, preparing your documents, and making sure you meet the requirements, you can set yourself up for a bright future in this fast-growing country.

Key Benefits of the UAE Green Visa

Five-Year Self-Sponsored Residency

The Green Visa lasts for five years. This is longer than the usual two or three years for standard work visas. With more time, you can plan your future, invest in your career, and settle down without worrying about frequent renewals.

Sponsoring Family Members

You can also sponsor your family members. This includes your spouse, children, and even parents or close relatives. The rules are more relaxed: you can sponsor sons up to age 25 and unmarried daughters at any age. Children with special needs can be sponsored regardless of age. This family-friendly policy makes the UAE more welcoming for long-term stays.

Longer Grace Period After Visa Expiry

If your visa expires, you have up to six months to renew or adjust your status. This is a big improvement over the stricter rules of the past. This extra time gives you breathing room in case of job changes, document delays, or other personal issues.

More Freedom for Career Changes

Because you are not tied to one employer, you can take on new roles or start your own company. Skilled employees, freelancers, and investors can all benefit from this freedom. The job market changes fast, and the Green Visa helps you stay flexible and take advantage of new openings.

 Easier Steps for Company Formation in Dubai

If you want to start a business, the Green Visa makes it simpler. You can explore free zones, mainland setups, or other options without needing a local sponsor. Working with a business setup consultant in Dubai can help you understand the rules, get licenses, and build a successful venture.

Recommended: UAE VISA Benefits

Who Can Apply for the UAE Green Visa?

 Skilled Employees

Skilled employees include professionals like engineers, managers, doctors, teachers, and IT specialists. To qualify, you need a valid job contract, a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), and a monthly salary of at least AED 15,000. Your job should be ranked at levels 1, 2, or 3 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

Freelancers and Self-Employed Workers

If you work for yourself, the UAE welcomes you too. To apply, you need a freelance permit from MoHRE and proof of a bachelor’s degree or diploma. You must also show that you earned at least AED 360,000 over the last two years from your work, or that you have enough savings to support yourself.

Investors and Business Partners

If you invest in or run a business in the UAE, you can apply for the Green Visa under the investor category. You must show proof of your investment and get approval from local authorities. If you hold more than one license, the total invested amount counts towards your eligibility.

Understanding Job Levels by the MoHRE

The MoHRE classifies jobs into levels. Levels 1, 2, and 3 are considered skilled roles. They include management, professional, and technical positions. Confirming your job level is important when applying as a skilled employee.

 

UAE Green Visa Application, Processing Time, and Price

Who Can Apply for a Green Visa?

Several groups of people are eligible for the UAE Green Visa, each with its own requirements:

1. Skilled Employees:
   • Must have a valid employment contract in the UAE.
   • Need at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
   • Must earn a salary of at least AED 15,000 per month.
   • The job should be classified as a skilled occupation (levels 1, 2, or 3) according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
2. Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
   • Need a freelance or self-employment permit from MoHRE.
   • Must hold at least a bachelor’s degree or a diploma.
   • Must show proof of annual income from self-employment of at least AED 360,000 over the last two years or proof of financial solvency while in the UAE.
3. Investors and Business Partners:
   • Those investing in or setting up commercial activities in the UAE can apply.
   • Must show proof of investment and secure approval from local authorities.
   • If holding multiple licenses, the total invested amount will be considered.

If you meet the conditions in one of these categories, you can apply for a UAE Green Visa and enjoy a five-year, self-sponsored residency, along with the option to sponsor family members and gain flexibility in building your career or business.

Using the Green Visa to Grow Your Business

Company Formation in Dubai and Other Emirates

The Green Visa allows you to form a company without a local sponsor. Dubai is known for its global business environment, many free zones, and easy access to markets. You can choose a free zone for full foreign ownership or a mainland setup to access local markets.

Using a Business Setup Consultant in Dubai

A business setup consultant in Dubai can guide you through the process. They can help you pick the right business structure, submit your paperwork, and ensure you follow local rules. This saves you time and energy.

Free Zones, Mainland, and Abu Dhabi’s Opportunities

• Free Zones: Offer 100% foreign ownership, quick setup, and tax benefits.
• Mainland: Lets you trade directly with the local market.
• Abu Dhabi: Focuses on advanced industries, offering great chances in energy, finance, and tech.

Financial Planning and Investment Strategies

Understanding Visa Costs

Besides the visa fee, consider costs for medical tests, Emirates ID, health insurance, and any required document attestations. If starting a business, add license fees, office rent, and other expenses.

Tips for Freelancers and Startups

Freelancers should keep clear records of their income. Show steady earnings and good financial habits. Startups should choose the right location (free zone or mainland) and think about long-term growth and costs.

Long-Term Returns of Holding a Green Visa

The Green Visa is not just a legal document. It’s a chance to build your career or business in a stable and growing economy. Over time, the benefits of living, working, and investing in the UAE can far outweigh the initial costs.

New Visa Category Offers 5-Year Residency Status for Entrepreneurs and Skilled Workers and Their Families

The Green Visa UAE stands out as a flexible alternative to traditional residency options like the Golden Visa UAE. Unlike UAE Golden Visa requirements, which are aimed at super-rich people, the Green Visa embraces professions, freelancers, families, and more closely relates to them.

It would also reveal the UAE’s push to attract and accommodate global skills that are a must in today’s dynamically volatile market. And it became simpler in this regard, which in turn paved big advantages for such expatriates who hope and plan to be in the UAE for a long period of time.

The long hours and flexibility make it very lucrative. It’s especially true for self-employed and skilled workers. Families need stability and inclusion. A wholesome product can meet today’s housing needs.

Recommended: Dubai Visa Rules

Conclusion

The Green Visa UAE is a great innovation for anyone who wants to be their boss, have flexible working hours, and have a permanent residence permit in the UAE. Quite as a result of the 5-year residency and sponsor-free privileges in addition to openness, it will be suitable for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers This is the most beneficial visa scheme, whether you are coming to start a business or relocate your family to Dubai.

It might help to seek help from PRO services in Dubai to make the entire application process easier for you. To learn about the other opportunities that form the objectives of a green visa, know about business setup in Dubai services.

Get the Green Visa UAE today and start your way towards a safer future!