The UAE Cabinet has announced a new system for residence visas and new visa entry permits targeting employees, tourists, investors and family members of residents.
Additionally, tourist visas are now valid for 60 days upon entering the country, instead of the previous 30 days.
The new changes will come into effect from September of this year.
Golden Residence Visa
The new changes to the visa allow family members, children (regardless of age) and support staff, with no maximum number, to be sponsored. Holders of the visa do not have a maximum number of days they can stay outside the country and in a situation where the holder of the visa dies, the family members will be able to reside till the golden visa's expiration date.
The Golden Residence visa is given to investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists, professionals, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes, for a period of 10 years.
Green Residence Visa For Skilled Employees
The new green visa grants skilled employees a 5-year visa and does not require a sponsor or an employer. The visa holder needs to have a valid employment contract, should be in the first, second or third occupational level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), have a minimum educational level of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and a salary over Dhs15,000.
Green Residence Visa For Freelancers And Self-Employed
As there are new and flexible working models, for freelancers and self-employed, a 5-year visa will be granted without a sponsor or employer in the UAE. The visa will be given by the MoHRE and requires a minimum education level of a bachelor's degree or diploma and annual income from self-employment for two years of no less than Dhs 360,000 or if financial stability can be maintained throughout the stay in the country.
Green Residence Visa For Investor Or Partner
The visa replaces the existing residence visa, which was valid for 2 years and now will be available for 5 years. Requirements for the visa include approval of the investment and proof of investment.
Family Member Benefits
Family members will now be given more benefits with the visa. Children can now be sponsored till the age of 25 years, which was previously set at 18 years and there is no age limit for unmarried daughters. Children of determination, regardless of age, will be given a visa. Green residence visa holders can sponsor first degree relatives for the same duration as the residence visa holder.
Entry Visa For Job Seekers
With this visa, the individual will not require a sponsor. The visa will be given to people in the first, second or third skill level as per the MoHRE and fresh graduates from the best 500 universities in the world, with a minimum educational level of a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.
Multi-Entry Tourist Visa
The 5-year tourist entry visa will allow holders to visit without a sponsor, stay for up to 90 days, can be extended and needs proof of a $4,000 bank balance or its equivalent in different currencies during the last six months from applying.
Temporary Work Entry Permit
Individuals on temporary work assignments, probation testing or a project-based mission can get the visa, which is sponsored by the employer. The entry permit requires a temporary work contract or a letter from the employer with the visit purpose and proof of health fitness to work.