The 5-Year UAE Green Visa Explained
Introduced as part of the UAE’s updated immigration system, the Green Visa bridges the gap between the traditional 2-year employer-sponsored visa and the 10-year Golden Visa. It provides a 5-year, self-sponsored residency aimed at freelancers, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers.
Eligibility Paths
- Freelancers & Self-Employed: Must obtain a Freelance/Self-Employment Permit from MOHRE, possess a bachelor's degree or specialized diploma, and prove an annual self-employment income of at least AED 360,000 over the past 2 years.
- Skilled Employees: Must have a valid employment contract classified in MOHRE occupational Level 1, 2, or 3, hold a bachelor's degree, and earn a monthly salary of not less than AED 15,000.
- Investors / Partners: Must establish or participate in commercial activities with approval from the relevant local department of economy and investment capital verification.
Family Sponsorship Privileges
Green Visa holders can sponsor first-degree family members (spouse and children) for the full 5-year duration of their permit. Male children can be sponsored up to the age of 25 (up from 18 under legacy rules), and unmarried daughters can be sponsored without age restrictions.