Get a Green Visa in the UAE

Imagine living in a country where there is no income tax, the sun shines almost all year round, and the infrastructure is designed for comfortable living and working. The Green Visa in the UAE offers exactly that opportunity, without being tied to a specific employer, with full control over your career and projects. This is a chance for freelancers, investors, and specialists to not just move here, but to build long-term plans by obtaining legal residency. We will break down how much it costs, what steps you will need to take, and why working with professionals can save you time and stress.

Why Apply for a Green Visa in Dubai?

Green Visa is a modern tool for those who value independence, security and the prospect of long-term residence in the UAE without being tied to a specific employer. This type of residence visa is intended for freelancers, entrepreneurs, investors and highly qualified specialists who wish to live and develop legally in one of the most dynamic economies in the world.

The main advantage of the Green Visa is legal resident status, allowing you to live in the country for 2 to 5 years with the possibility of extension. Visa holders have access to banking and medical services, can rent or purchase real estate, start a business, and apply for visas for family members (including children under 25 and parents).

The absence of personal income tax makes the UAE a particularly attractive jurisdiction for the self-employed and entrepreneurs. You also gain access to a high standard of living, international schools, a stable legal system and world-class infrastructure.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Green Visa

The process of obtaining a Green Visa in Dubai consists of several stages. Here you can find the description of the whole process, which can be provided either independently or with the help of accredited intermediaries:

1. Determine your applicant category. The Green Visa is available to freelancers, investors, business partners and highly qualified professionals. Each category requires supporting documents, ranging from contracts to diplomas and income statements.
2. Prepare your documents. These include your foreign passport, photograph, criminal record certificate, medical certificate (upon arrival in the UAE), diploma, professional licence (if required), and bank statements.
3. Create an account on the ICP (Identity and Citizenship Portal) or submit an application through the GDRFA (depending on the emirate). You can also register through the e-channel - an online visa processing system.
4. Submitting an application and paying fees. All steps can be completed online. If you are outside the UAE, you may need an entry visa to undergo a medical examination and fingerprinting.
5. Obtaining an Emirates ID and visa. Once your request is approved, you will receive a residence visa and an Emirates ID.

We recommend that you ask for professional assistance to avoid rejection due to errors in your documents. Our specialists can help you pass these steps without stress and inconvenience.

Eligibility Criteria for Dubai Green Visa

The Green Visa in the UAE is planned for those who want to live and work in the country without sponsorship from an employer. This type of residence visa is intended for freelancers, investors, business owners and qualified professionals who meet certain requirements.

Highly qualified professionals must provide:

• a contract or job offer in the UAE;
• a higher education diploma (at least a bachelor's degree);
• a monthly income of at least AED 15,000 (approximately $4,000);
• confirmation of compliance with MoHRE requirements.

Freelancers and self-employed persons:

• a freelance licence is required (issued in free economic zones or through MoHRE);
• proof of annual income of at least AED 360,000 for the last 2 years or the existence of sufficient savings.

The Green Visa also allows you to sponsor family members, including children under 25 and parents.

UAE Green Visa: Required Documents

To apply for a Green Visa, you need to submit a complete set of required documents. The list can vary depending on your category (freelancer, specialist, investor), but it usually includes the next:

• A copy of your foreign passport, valid for at least 6 months.
• Passport-sized photo on a white background (in digital and paper form).
• A photocopy of your UAE visa. Also, if you are already in the country, the page with the entry stamp is needed.
• Proof of income - employment contract, salary certificate, freelancer licence or company registration documents.
• Bank statements for the last 3 - 6 months confirming financial wealth.
• Higher education diploma or other qualification document certified in accordance with the established procedure.
• NOC (No Objection Certificate) - when switching from another visa or changing status.
• Valid medical insurance corresponding to the visa type.
• Results of a medical examination passed at an accredited centre in the UAE.
• Completed Emirates ID application, submitted through ICP or GDRFA.

Additionally, there can be required following docs: proof of property ownership, tax returns, MoHRE licences or e-channel registration. It is recommended to check the current requirements in advance on the official ICP website.

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Green Visa Cost and Validity

The Green Visa in the UAE offers not only freedom from employer sponsorship. It also has a quite affordable application process. Below is a categorization of the main costs:

• Government visa fee: AED 2,280 - 2,500.
• Medical examination: AED 300 - 700 (depending on the clinic and urgency).
• Emirates ID registration: AED 370 - 500 for 2 years.
• Typing centre services/document processing: AED 100 - 200.
• Consulting services (if used): from AED 1,000 and above.
• Additional costs: translation and legalisation of diplomas, insurance from AED 700.

The total estimated cost is from AED 3,500 to 5,500, excluding intermediaries and additional documents.

The Green Visa is valid for 5 years with the possibility of renewal. Unlike a standard work visa, the Green Visa does not require a sponsoring employer, which make the renewal process simplier. Renewal is possible if the visa criteria are still met: confirmed income, a valid freelance licence or business ownership.

Important: visa conditions are subject to change, so it is recommended to check the current fees and requirements on the ICP and GDRFA websites, as well as to use verified intermediaries if necessary.

Renewal and Cancellation of a Green Visa

The Green Visa is valid for 5 years and is subject to renewal under the same conditions as the initial application (income, business, licence, etc.).

The UAE Green Visa renewal is possible within 6 months before the expiry date. It is recommended to apply in advance through ICP or GDRFA - online or through a licensed typing centre.

Required documents to renew the Green Visa in the UAE:

• valid passport.
• current Emirates ID.
• proof of income or business activity.
• medical insurance.
• results of a new medical examination (if requested).
• paid fees.

A visa may be cancelled at the initiative of the holder or in case of violation of visa conditions. Cancellation also occurs automatically if the visa is not renewed after its expiry.

After cancellation or expiry, there is a grace period of 6 months during which the applicant may:

• ask for a new visa,
• leave the country without penalties,
• change status (for example, to a work or investment visa).

At the end of the grace period, penalties for illegal stay begin to accrue. It is recommended not to wait for the expiry date and to act in advance.

Who Should Apply for a Green Visa?

The Green Visa is the ideal choice for those who want to live in the UAE independently of an employer. It is designed for people who are self-employed or involved in investment activities, and offers flexibility in terms of lawful status.

This kind of visa is suitable for the following individuals:

• Freelancers and self-employed individuals working online or on contract with foreign clients;
• Remote employees working for foreign companies, provided they have a stable income;
• Investors and co-owners of companies registered in the UAE;
• Highly qualified professionals with an income of AED 15,000 per month or more;
• People with a stable passive income (e.g. from property rental or investments);
• Wealthy pensioners, who have a dream to live in a country with a high standard of living.

When a Green Visa is not suitable:

• If you plan to work for a local company. In such case, you will need a standard work visa with sponsorship.
• If you do not meet the minimum income thresholds or cannot confirm your qualifications.
• If you intend to engage in active entrepreneurial activity in the mainland UAE. You may need a separate business licence and a different visa status

The Green Visa can offer you long-awaited freedom, but it requires independence and responsibility.

Conclusion

The Green Visa in the UAE is an innovative residency visa format designed for those who value flexibility, independence and stability. Unlike standard work visas, it does not require sponsorship from an employer. Thus, it is an ideal variant for freelancers, investors, remote professionals, and those who are building their professional or personal lives outside of traditional employment schemes.

The opportunity to legally reside in a country with a developed economy, zero personal income tax, advanced infrastructure, and a high level of security are one of the key advantages of the Green Visa. The visa also allows you to sponsor your family members, including children under 25 and parents, ensuring integrity and comfort for the whole family. The possibility to rent or purchase real estate, access banking services, healthcare, and education makes this the Green Visa in the UAE particularly attractive for long-term being.

Despite general access to the online application system, the application process still requires attention to detail and knowledge of the existing nuances. The support of experienced consultants allows you to avoid mistakes, save time and increase your chances of approval. If you are ready for the next step, start planning your residency in Dubai today.