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.
