UAE Residency / Emirates ID

UAE residency gives you the right to live in the country for an extended period. Officially, it can be granted for anywhere from 1 to 10 years, depending on the visa type.
The United Arab Emirates does not offer full citizenship (passports) to foreign nationals. To reside in the UAE long-term, foreigners must obtain a residence visa.
Once your visa term ends, you can renew it — as long as you continue to meet all the necessary requirements.

 

Types of UAE Residence Visas

 

1. Golden Visa
A long-term residence visa (5 or 10 years) for:

• Investors: e.g., those investing at least AED 2 million in public investments or real estate (must be made in real estate located within the same emirate, not spread across different emirates).
• Entrepreneurs: owners of innovative projects valued at a minimum of AED 500,000.
• Specialized talents: including doctors, scientists, executives, and creatives.
• Outstanding students and graduates: with high academic achievements.
• Humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes: individuals with notable contributions.​

Benefits:

No need for a local sponsor.

Ability to sponsor family members and unlimited domestic helpers.

Flexibility to stay outside the UAE for extended periods without affecting visa validity.​

 

2. Green Visa
A 5-year self-sponsored residence visa for:

• Freelancers and self-employed individuals: requiring a permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, proof of a bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma, and evidence of annual income of at least AED 360,000 over the past two years or financial solvency.
• Skilled employees: with a valid employment contract, classified in the first, second, or third occupational level as per the Ministry, holding at least a bachelor’s degree, and earning a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000.​

3. Standard Work Visa
A typical 2-year visa sponsored by an employer for:

• Private sector employees
• Government sector employees
• Free zone employees​

The employer handles the application process for this visa.​

4. Retirement Visa
A 5-year visa for retirees who meet one of the following criteria:

• Worked for at least 15 years inside or outside the UAE.
• Are 55 years old or more at the time of retirement.
• Own property/properties worth at least AED 1 million.
• Have financial savings of no less than AED 1 million.
• Have a monthly income of AED 20,000 (or AED 15,000 for Dubai).​

5. UAE Blue Residency Visa
The Blue Residency Visa is a 10-year renewable residence permit introduced in May 2024, aimed at individuals who have made notable contributions to environmental protection and sustainability.

Key Benefits

• 10-year renewable residency
• No local sponsor required
• Family sponsorship
• Access to healthcare, education, and property ownership
• Opportunities to work on environmental projects in the UAE

Who Can Apply

Applicants must show proven achievements in environmental fields, such as:

• Environmental experts (e.g., climate, marine, renewable energy)
• NGO or international organization members
• Global environmental award recipients
• Eco-focused entrepreneurs and investors
• Innovators with patents or impactful green tech

Supporting documents like awards, publications, or project records are required.

 

6. Remote Work Visa
A 1-year visa allowing individuals to live in the UAE while working remotely for an overseas employer.​

Requirements:

• Proof of employment with a one-year contract or ownership of a company for at least one year.
• Minimum monthly income of USD 3,500.
• Valid health insurance with UAE coverage.​

7. Family Visa

Allows UAE residents to sponsor their immediate family members, provided they meet certain income and accommodation requirements.​

 

8. Student Visa

For individuals enrolled in educational institutions in the UAE. The visa is typically sponsored by the university or the student’s parent.