The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands as an attractive destination for those seeking long-term residency, boasting three cities that ranked within the top 20 of InterNations's Expat City Ranking for 2023.
Ras Al Khaimah claimed the 4th spot, with Abu Dhabi following closely at 5th, and Dubai securing the 11th position.
These rankings serve as a testament to the country's magnetic appeal to individuals from around the globe.
With a staggering 9 million expatriates calling it home as of December 2023, the UAE remains one of the largest economic hubs in the Middle East.
Understanding Permanent Residency Visas in the UAE
The permanent residency visa in the UAE provides foreign nationals with the opportunity to establish a long-term presence in the country, enabling them to live, work, and study for an extended period, typically ranging from 5 to 10 years.
Unlike standard visas, this visa type is renewable and does not require sponsorship from a local entity.
Distinguished by its longer validity period, the permanent residency visa offers a multitude of benefits.
Notably, holders of this visa enjoy the flexibility of exiting and re-entering the UAE without being bound by stringent time constraints.
Additionally, they possess the privilege to sponsor family members and domestic helpers, as well as access essential services such as healthcare, banking, and education.
Furthermore, permanent residency visa holders have the freedom to own property and establish businesses within the UAE.
The UAE government offers two main types of long-term residency visas: the Golden Visa and the Green Visa.
Each of these visas carries its own set of eligibility criteria and benefits, providing applicants with various avenues to secure their place in the country.
Related: UAE 10-Year Blue Residence Visa
Understanding the Golden Visa: A Pathway to Long-term Residency in the UAE
The Golden Visa stands as a coveted opportunity for individuals encompassing various categories, including investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, students, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline heroes.
This long-term, renewable visa option offers both 5-year and 10-year validity periods, each tailored to specific eligibility criteria and requirements.
Let's delve into the categories under the Golden Visa and their respective criteria:
- Investors in Public Investments (10-year validity):
- Eligibility: Foreign investors contributing to investment funds in the UAE.
- Requirements:
- Minimum investment of AED 2 million in an accredited investment fund.
- A letter from the Federal Tax Authority confirming an annual payment of at least AED 250,000 to the government.
- Evidence demonstrating no loans taken for the investment.
- Investors in Real Estate (10-year validity):
- Eligibility: Individuals investing in the UAE's property market.
- Requirements:
- Letter from the emirate's land department proving ownership of property valued at least AED 2 million.
- Ability to invest in property through a mortgage from a local bank.
- Entrepreneurs (5-year validity):
- Eligibility: Owners or part-owners of economic projects or startups in the UAE.
- Requirements:
- Letter from an auditor confirming the project's value is at least AED 500,000.
- Endorsement from a relevant UAE authority aligning with economic development goals.
- Specialized Talents (10-year validity):
- Eligibility: Professionals in fields such as medicine, science, engineering, and arts.
- Requirements: Vary based on specialization, including accreditation from relevant authorities or documentation of exceptional achievements.
- Outstanding High School Students (5-year validity):
- Eligibility: High-performing students in UAE secondary schools.
- Requirements: Minimum grade of 95 percent and a recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education.
- Outstanding University Students (10-year validity):
- Eligibility: High-performing students in universities rated A or B by the Ministry of Education.
- Requirements: Confirmed cumulative GPA and recent graduation from accredited universities.
- Humanitarian Work Pioneers (10-year validity):
- Eligibility: Individuals with significant contributions to humanitarian causes.
- Requirements: Documentation of humanitarian work and recommendations from relevant authorities.
- Frontline Heroes (10-year validity):
- Eligibility: Healthcare workers demonstrating exceptional efforts during crises.
- Requirements: Recommendation letter from relevant authorities.
Each category of the Golden Visa presents distinct pathways to permanent residency, allowing individuals to contribute to and benefit from the dynamic landscape of the UAE.
Related: 2 Years Employment Visa Dubai Price
Exploring the Green Visa: A Pathway for Skilled Individuals, Freelancers, and Investors in the UAE
The Green Visa represents another avenue for securing permanent residency in the UAE, tailored primarily for skilled employees, freelancers, and investors or partners.
This visa category offers a duration of 5 years, granting holders the freedom to reside in the UAE without the need for sponsorship.
Let's delve into the specific eligibility requirements for each category:
- Skilled Employees:
- Eligibility: Individuals occupying first-, second-, or third-level positions with a valid employment contract.
- Requirement: Minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000.
- Freelancers:
- Eligibility: Individuals obtaining a permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE).
- Additional Requirement:
- Annual income of at least AED 360,000 over the past two years OR
- Proof of financial solvency.
- Investors or Partners:
- Eligibility: Individuals securing approval from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security (ICP).
- Requirement: Minimum investment of AED 1 million.
By meeting these distinct eligibility criteria, individuals in various professional capacities can embark on the journey to secure a Green Visa, thus opening doors to long-term residency and opportunity in the vibrant landscape of the UAE.
Read more: What is the Average Salary in Dubai?
Obtaining a Permanent Residency Visa in the UAE: A Step-by-Step Guide
Securing a permanent residency visa in the UAE involves the following steps:
Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility
The UAE offers various visa categories, each with its own set of eligibility criteria and requirements.
Begin by assessing which permanent residency visa type aligns with your profile to ensure a smooth application process.
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
Prepare the necessary documents as per the requirements of your chosen visa category.
In addition to category-specific documents, ensure you have your passport (valid for at least six months), Emirates ID (if applicable), a tourist visa with an entry stamp (if you do not hold an existing standard UAE resident visa), and a valid health insurance policy.
Step 3: Proceed with Your Application
You have the option to either handle the application process independently or seek assistance from reputable third-party service providers.
If you choose to apply independently, visit the UAE smart services system and complete the appropriate application form for your selected category.
Regardless of the path you choose, ensure you pay the requisite visa fees, which may vary depending on the visa type and duration.
Step 4: Wait for Your Visa to Be Processed
After submitting your application and payment, the next step is to patiently await the processing of your visa.
While processing times can vary, they typically range from a few weeks to a few months.
Remain vigilant for any updates or requests for additional information from the relevant authorities.
By diligently following these steps, you can navigate the process of obtaining a permanent residency visa in the UAE and pave the way for a long-term stay in the country.
Final Thoughts
The UAE presents itself as a remarkable destination to live and flourish, renowned for its top-notch safety, accessible services, and outstanding infrastructure.
Continuously attracting millions of foreign nationals, the country offers a pathway to establish long-term residency through its diverse array of permanent residency visa categories.
Whether you're a student, employee, entrepreneur, or investor, the UAE extends a warm welcome, inviting you to embark on the journey of securing your permanent residency visa through the appropriate channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for a permanent residency visa in the UAE?
Individuals meeting specific eligibility criteria, including investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents (such as scientists and creatives), outstanding students, pioneers of humanitarian work, frontline heroes, skilled employees, and freelancers, are eligible to apply for a permanent residency visa in the UAE.
What are the types of permanent residency visas in the UAE?
The primary types of permanent residency visas in the UAE are the Golden Visa and the Green Visa, each offering validity periods ranging from 5 to 10 years.
How much is the permanent residency visa?
The cost of the Golden Visa typically ranges from AED 2,800 to AED 4,800, while the Green Visa is priced at approximately AED 2,280.
Are there any financial requirements for this visa?
Yes, certain visa categories have financial requirements. For instance, investors in public investments or real estate must demonstrate an investment of at least AED 2 million.
What are the perks of a permanent residency visa in the UAE?
In addition to long-term residency, the perks of a permanent residency visa include exemption from the need for a local sponsor, flexibility in entering and exiting the UAE, access to local services, and the ability to sponsor family members.
Am I required to stay in the UAE continuously to maintain the visa?
No, one of the advantages of a permanent residency visa is the flexibility it offers in terms of travel. There is no requirement to stay in the UAE continuously to maintain your visa status.
Also Read: Visa-Free Countries for UAE Residents