Golden Visa & Green Visa Categories
Golden Visa (10-Year Residency)
The Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa introduced by the UAE government to attract talent, investment, and expertise. Valid for 10 years. Does not require a sponsor. Allows family sponsorship. Can be renewed.
Golden Visa Categories
1. Investors: Minimum AED 2 million investment in public investments or real estate. Valid for 10 years. Can sponsor family and domestic workers.
2. Entrepreneurs: Own or partner in a startup or SME. Minimum approval from an approved business incubator. Valid for 5 years (can be extended to 10).
3. Scientists and Researchers: Must be recognized by an accredited scientific body. Holders of PhD or equivalent. Significant research contributions.
4. Outstanding Students: High-performing students from UAE universities. High school students with 98%+ grades.
5. Professionals: Must have a job offer in the UAE. Minimum salary: AED 30,000/month. Holders of accredited degrees. In-demand professions.
6. Humanitarian Pioneers: Distinguished members of humanitarian organizations. Recognized for humanitarian work.
7. Specialized Talents: Doctors, engineers, IT professionals, educators. Must meet specific criteria. Recognized by relevant authorities.
Golden Visa Benefits
10-year residency (renewable). No sponsor required. Can sponsor family (spouse, children). Can sponsor domestic workers. Can work in the UAE. Can establish a business. No restriction on staying outside the UAE (for extended periods). Family can stay in the UAE even after the primary holder's death.
Golden Visa Application Process
Step 1: Determine Eligibility. Check which category you qualify for. Gather required documents.
Step 2: Apply. Submit application to ICP or GDRFA. Can be done from inside or outside the UAE.
Step 3: Processing. Processing time: 2-4 weeks. May require additional documentation.
Step 4: Approval and Issuance. Golden visa issued. Valid for 10 years.
Green Visa (5-Year Residency)
The Green Visa is a medium-term residency visa for freelancers, self-employed, and skilled workers. Valid for 5 years. No sponsor required. Can sponsor family.
Green Visa Categories
1. Freelancers and Self-Employed: Must have a freelance permit. Minimum education: bachelor's degree or specialized diploma. Minimum income: AED 15,000/month (or self-employed).
2. Skilled Workers: Must have a valid employment contract. Minimum education: bachelor's degree. Minimum salary: AED 15,000/month. Classified as first, second, or third skill level.
3. Investors/Partners: Establish or invest in a commercial activity. Minimum investment: AED 150,000 (varies by emirate).
Green Visa Benefits
5-year residency (renewable). No sponsor required. Can sponsor family. Can work and establish a business. More flexibility than employment visa. No restriction on staying outside the UAE (for up to 6 months).
Green Visa Application Process
Step 1: Determine Eligibility. Check category requirements. Gather documents.
Step 2: Apply. Submit to ICP or GDRFA. Can be done from inside or outside the UAE.
Step 3: Processing. Processing time: 2-4 weeks.
Step 4: Approval and Issuance. Green visa issued. Valid for 5 years.
Other Special Visa Categories
1. Virtual Working Program: For remote workers employed by foreign companies. Valid for 1 year (renewable). Minimum income: USD 3,500/month.
2. Property Investor Visa: For property owners. Property value: AED 750,000+ (for 2-year visa). Property value: AED 2,000,000+ (for 10-year visa).
3. Retirement Visa: For retirees aged 55+. Must meet financial criteria. Valid for 5 years.
4. Student Visa: For students at UAE universities. Sponsored by the institution.
PRO's Role in Special Visas
Advise clients on eligibility. Help with documentation. Submit applications. Track processing. Coordinate with authorities. Handle renewals. Keep updated on regulations.
Key Considerations
Golden and Green visas do not require a sponsor. They offer more flexibility than employment visas. Family can be sponsored. They are not linked to employment. Can be held alongside an employment visa. Must meet specific criteria. Professional advice recommended for complex cases.