Green Visa (Self-Sponsored Work Residence)
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 1825 days
- Processing time
- 5-10 business days
- Fee
- AED 2,200-3,500 (approx. $599-$953 USD)
- Validity
- 5 years, renewable
- Entry
- Multiple entry
The UAE Green Visa is a 5-year self-sponsored residence visa for skilled workers, freelancers, self-employed individuals, and investors. Unlike the standard employment visa, it is not tied to an employer. Skilled workers must earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000 and hold at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent. Freelancers must hold a freelance/self-employment permit from MOHRE. Investors must have a valid commercial licence. Green visa holders may sponsor their spouse, children, and first-degree relatives.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Available to all nationalities
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Employment
Skilled workers: minimum AED 15,000 monthly salary and bachelor's degree or equivalent. Freelancers: valid freelance/self-employment permit from MOHRE. Investors: valid UAE commercial licence
Required status: Skilled worker, freelancer, or investor
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Financial
Skilled workers must earn at least AED 15,000/month. Freelancers and investors must demonstrate sufficient income or business revenue
Minimum funds: AED 15,000/month for skilled workers
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Health
Must pass the UAE medical fitness test
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Photo
Count: 4; Specifications: Recent colour passport-size photographs with white background
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Employment contract, salary certificate, freelance permit, or commercial licence; Minimum amount: AED 15,000 minimum monthly salary for skilled workers; or valid freelance permit; or commercial licence for investors
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Travel insurance
Coverage area: UAE; Minimum coverage: Valid health insurance covering UAE
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment via ICP or GDRFA portal; Amount: AED 200 work visa fee + AED 10 Knowledge Dirham + AED 10 Innovation Dirham + AED 500 (if inside UAE) + additional processing fees
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Medical fitness
Provide a medical fitness certificate if the destination requires one for this route.
Destination country: UAE; Examining center: UAE-approved medical centre
How to apply
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Document gathering
Gather passport copies, passport photos, educational certificates (attested), employment contract or freelance permit or commercial licence, salary certificate, and health insurance
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Online application
Apply through ICP smart services portal or GDRFA Dubai. Self-sponsored application - no employer sponsor needed
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Fee payment
Pay visa fees online (approximately AED 2,200-3,500 total including all government fees)
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Processing wait
Wait 5-10 business days for approval
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Document submission
Upon arrival or after approval, complete medical fitness test at approved centre
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Biometrics
Apply for Emirates ID at a typing centre with biometrics capture
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Visa collection
Receive 5-year Green Visa residence stamp in passport