The UAE has significantly enhanced its residency system with the introduction of the **Green Visa**, a game-changing 5-year residency permit designed to attract and retain skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors. This visa stands out because it allows its holder to **sponsor themselves for 5 years**, completely eliminating the need for a UAE national or employer to act as a sponsor. [1]

As the UAE continues to build a diversified and knowledge-based economy, the Green Visa is a key initiative to attract top talent from around the world. It provides a level of stability and flexibility that was previously unavailable to many professionals, empowering them to build a long-term future in the country.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the UAE Green Visa, covering the different categories of eligibility, the extensive benefits it offers, and the detailed application process. Whether you are a skilled employee, a self-employed freelancer, or an investor, the Green Visa could be your pathway to success in the UAE. And when you’re ready to apply, T4me’s expert visa consultants are here to make the process seamless.

What is the UAE Green Visa?

The Green Visa is a type of residence visa that grants a 5-year residency to eligible individuals without the need for a sponsor. It is designed to attract highly skilled individuals, self-employed professionals, and investors who can contribute to the UAE’s economic growth and development.

The key feature of the Green Visa is the self-sponsorship, which provides holders with greater job flexibility and security. If a Green Visa holder loses their job, they have a grace period of up to 6 months to find a new one.

Categories of Eligibility for the Green Visa

The Green Visa is available to three main categories of individuals:

1. Skilled Employees

This category is for skilled professionals who have a valid employment contract in the UAE. The requirements are:

•    Classification in the first, second, or third occupational level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
•    A minimum educational level of a bachelor‚Äôs degree or equivalent.
•    A salary of not less than AED 15,000 per month.

2. Freelancers / Self-Employed Individuals

This is one of the most attractive categories, as it allows freelancers to live and work in the UAE without needing a traditional employment contract. The requirements are:

•    A freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
•    A minimum educational level of a bachelor‚a degree or specialized diploma.
•    Annual income from self-employment for the previous two years of not less than AED 360,000 (or the applicant must prove their financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE).

3. Investors or Partners

This category is for individuals who have invested in a business in the UAE. The requirements are:

•    Approval of the investment and proof of investment. If the investor has more than one license, the total invested capital will be calculated.
•    Approval of the competent local authorities is mandatory.

Key Benefits of the Green Visa

The Green Visa offers a range of benefits that provide long-term stability and flexibility for professionals and their families:

•    5-Year Renewable Residency: A long-term residency of 5 years, which can be renewed upon expiry.
•    Self-Sponsorship: No need for an employer or UAE national to sponsor your visa.
•    Extended Grace Period: A flexible grace period of up to 6 months to stay in the country after the residence permit is cancelled or expires.
•    Family Sponsorship: Holders can easily sponsor their family members, including their spouse, children, and first-degree relatives. The age of children who can be sponsored has been raised to 25 years (previously 18), with no age limit for unmarried daughters.
•    Sponsor Male Children: Green Visa holders can sponsor their male children up to the age of 25. Previously, parents could only sponsor their male children up to the age of 18.

Application Process for the Green Visa

The application for the Green Visa can be submitted through the official portals of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or the GDRFA in Dubai.

1. Determine Your Category: First, identify which of the three categories (skilled employee, freelancer, or investor) you fall under.
2. Gather Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents based on your category. This will include your passport, photos, educational certificates, employment contract or freelance permit, and proof of salary or income.
3. Document Attestation: Ensure that your educational certificates and other relevant documents are properly attested as per the UAE government’s requirements.
4. Submit Your Application: Apply through the ICP or GDRFA online portals, or use an approved service center.
5. Medical Fitness Test and Emirates ID: Once your application is approved, you will need to complete a medical fitness test and apply for your Emirates ID.

How T4me (t4me.com) Can Help You Obtain Your Green Visa

Navigating the requirements for the Green Visa can be complex, with specific documentation needed for each category. T4me (t4me.com) a team of experienced visa consultants can simplify this process for you.

We offer:

•    Free Eligibility Assessment: We will review your qualifications and help you determine if you are eligible for the Green Visa.
•    Permit and License Assistance: For freelancers, we can assist in obtaining the necessary freelance permit from MOHRE.
•    Complete Application Management: We will handle the entire application process, from document preparation and attestation to submission and follow-up.
•    Expert Guidance: Our bilingual team is available 24/7 to provide you with expert advice and support throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I apply for the Green Visa if my salary is less than AED 15,000?

For the skilled employee category, a salary of at least AED 15,000 is a mandatory requirement.

2. As a freelancer, how do I get a permit from MOHRE?

You can apply for a freelance permit through the MOHRE website. T4me can also assist you with this process.

3. Can I combine my income from multiple freelance projects to meet the AED 360,000 annual income requirement?

Yes, you can combine your income from various sources of self-employment to meet the financial requirement.

4. Is the Green Visa the same as the Golden Visa?

No, they are different. The Green Visa is for 5 years and is targeted at skilled workers, freelancers, and investors. The Golden Visa is for 10 years and is for a broader range of talents, including those in the new Blue Visa category.

5. Can I switch from my current employment visa to a Green Visa?

Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply to change your visa status to a Green Visa without having to leave the country.

Conclusion: Your Pathway to a Stable Future in the UAE

The UAE Green Visa is a forward-thinking initiative that empowers skilled professionals and freelancers with greater stability and control over their careers. It is a clear invitation to the world’s best and brightest to make the UAE their long-term home.

If you are a skilled professional, a self-employed individual, or an investor looking for a flexible and secure future in a dynamic country, the Green Visa is an opportunity you should not miss.

Contact T4me (t4me.com) today for a free consultation and let our experts guide you on your path to obtaining a UAE Green Visa. We are here to help you every step of the way.

References

[1] U.AE. “Residence visa for working in the UAE.” uae, 11 June 2025, https://u.ae/pt/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/residence-visas/residence-visa-for-working-in-the-uae.