UAE Residence Visa Changes 2023 – Things to Know
As of October 3rd, 2023, the UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security has announced that the standard UAE residence visa duration will be two years for both mainland and Free Zone company sponsorships. Additionally, starting from October 3rd, 2022, the processing of Golden Visa, Green Visa, and 5-year multiple entry tourist visa will commence. The UAE aims to attract a significant number of tourists, regular visitors, and skilled employees, encouraging them to stay, work, and spend quality time with their families and friends in the country.
The UAE Government has introduced a range of Entry and Residence schemes to broaden the number of eligible individuals. With a focus on enhancing the country’s competitiveness in tourism, economy, and education, these visa programs offer increased flexibility and independence to holders. The unified system brings forth a host of advantages for investors, skilled professionals, self-employed individuals, and their families.
Changes in the UAE Residence Visa
The UAE Government has recently introduced a series of changes to residency norms, completely revamping the existing residence visa regulations. These changes are specifically designed to attract foreign talents, creative professionals, scientists, and entrepreneurs to the UAE.
With the latest updates in visa rules, the UAE is increasingly becoming more open and welcoming to visitors, tourists, and investors from all corners of the globe. Expatriates visiting the UAE for various purposes can now self-sponsor themselves.
Let’s take a closer look at the significant changes in UAE Residence Visa norms, which will come into effect from September 2022.
1. Green Residence Permit
Introducing a new initiative to attract freelancers, startup investors, and talented middle-income professionals. The Green Residence Permit offers a unique opportunity for self-sponsorship, granting a visa to those who meet specific criteria. Experience the freedom to pursue your dreams and showcase your special talents with this innovative program.
1.1 5 Year Green Residence Permit for Freelancers
Green visas are specifically designed to cater to individuals in the middle-income bracket. These visas are intended for skilled workers, freelancers, and self-employed individuals. The duration of the visa will span a period of 5 years.
Key Highlights:
- There is no employer or sponsor required for applying for the visa
- The permit is obtained from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)
- Annual Income from self-employment for the previous two years must not be less than AED 360,000 or the visa holder must provide financial solvency for the stay in the country.
1.2. Green Residence for Skilled Employees
Just like freelancers, skilled employees in fields like engineering, life science, business management, software, IT, and more, are eligible for the Green Residence Visa.
Key Highlights:
- Must fall in the selected category of occupational levels
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent minimum educational level
- Salary to be not less than AED 15,000
1.3 5-Year Green Residence for investors and partners
Entrepreneurs, investors, and partners in startups as well as small and medium-sized companies now have the opportunity to qualify for the 5 Year Green Visa. To be eligible for application, certain criteria such as minimum investment requirements and specific business activities need to be met. This visa provides a pathway for ambitious individuals to explore new opportunities and contribute to the growth of the economy.
More details about the plan are yet to be revealed by the UAE government authorities.
2. Visas for Students and Job Seekers
To entice a greater number of talented youth to flock to its shores, the UAE is launching the innovative self-sponsored Job Seekers visa program. In addition, the Educational Residence Permit offers an invaluable opportunity for international students to pursue their studies at a plethora of prestigious colleges and universities within the UAE.
3. Educational Residence Permit
Students will have the opportunity to obtain a two-year residence permit, graciously sponsored by licensed educational establishments in the UAE. This permit will enable students to apply for a wide range of courses offered by esteemed international and domestic universities within the UAE.
During their time in the UAE, students have the opportunity to study, live, and explore the country while completing their courses. Additionally, they can seek employment within the UAE after finishing their studies.
4. Job Exploration Entry Visa
Introducing a novel visa designed to allure young talents and skilled professionals, offering them abundant job prospects in the UAE. The unique aspect is that this visa exempts the need for a sponsor or host.
It is a great opportunity for new graduates from about 500 top universities in the world to come and explore UAE.
5. Multi-Entry Tourist Visa
The Multi-Entry Tourist Visa allows visitors to enter the UAE and stay for up to 90 consecutive days, with the option to extend for a similar period. Within a year, the maximum allowable stay is 180 days.
When applying, it is required to provide proof of funds amounting to USD 4000 or its equivalent in any currency for the past six months. This visa option is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers from countries like India, Pakistan, etc., who would otherwise have to pay for a visa each time they travel.
6. Sponsoring Family
The recent revisions to the UAE Residence Visa regulations have significantly simplified the process of sponsoring family members for visa holders. The UAE government is committed to promoting family unity and encourages expatriates to make the most of their time in the country.
There are numerous benefits for the visa holder sponsoring their family such as:
- Resident can sponsor family members including spouse and children till the age of 25. Unmarried daughters regardless of age.
- Children of determination are granted a residence permit, regardless of age
- Green Residence holders can sponsor first degree relatives
7. Golden Visa
The Golden Visa criteria have been updated and expanded to include a wider range of eligible beneficiaries across different sectors. This revision now allows investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, professionals, and exceptional students to apply for Golden Visas, opening up new opportunities for individuals in various fields.
The Golden Residence Scheme simplifies the eligibility criteria so that the 10-year residence is accessible to more audiences.
7.1 Golden Visa for Scientists
Applicants are required to hold a Ph.D. or master’s degree, accompanied by significant research accomplishments. They should possess expertise in engineering, technology, life sciences, or natural sciences from top-tier universities.
7.2 Golden Visa for Skilled Professionals
Professionals possessing exceptional skills, educational qualifications, and substantial industry experience are eligible to apply for golden visas. A valid employment contract in the UAE and a minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000 are prerequisites for qualification.
7.3 Golden Visa for Exceptional Talents
Exceptionally talented individuals in fields like culture, art, sports, digital technology, and innovation may need the recommendation or approval of a Federal or Local Government entity.
7.4 Golden Visa for Real Estate Investors
Real estate investors can obtain Golden Residence for purchasing a property worth no less than AED 2 million.
One option is to obtain a loan from a local bank, specifically tailored to your needs. This would enable you to purchase one or multiple off-plan properties, totaling AED 2 million.
7.5 Golden Visa for Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs or partners in a startup registered in UAE in the category of Small and medium companies are eligible to apply for Golden Visa. They must be generating an annual revenue of not less than AED 1 million.
Likewise, partners or investors involved in enterprises with new project ideas or projects valued at AED 7m or more are eligible for the esteemed Golden Visa.
7.6 Golden Visa for Outstanding Students and Graduates
High-performing students in UAE Secondary schools, UAE universities & best 100 universities worldwide with more than 95% marks (For Higher Secondary) & 3.75 GPA (For Graduates) qualify for the golden visa.
Hence, in a nutshell, there are multiple changes in the Golden Visa and UAE Residence rules. It is favorable for expatriates to visit, settle, live, work, and study in UAE.
To know more about setting up a company and settling in UAE, talk to our expert Business Consultants right away!