How to Apply for the UAE Green Visa in 2025: Step-by-Step Guide
The United Arab Emirates has always been a top destination for professionals, investors, families and entrepreneurs from all around the world. With its modern lifestyle, strong economy, and growing job opportunities, many people dream of building a future in the UAE.
To make it easier, the UAE government has launched a series of long term residency options such as Green Visa UAE. The Green Visa is a key part of the UAE’s efforts to attract global talent and promote innovation.
In this blog, we will explain everything regarding what is green visa UAE, its eligibility criteria, UAE green visa requirements, and the detailed steps on how to apply.
What is the UAE Green Visa?
The UAE Green Visa is a type of long-term residency visa that allows individuals to live and work in the United Arab Emirates without needing the company or employer to sponsor them. It is important to note that it is valid for 5 years and can be renewed once it expires.
This makes it ideal for people who want to settle in the UAE for a longer period of time. The Green Visa gives more flexibility and independence as compared to other regular work visas, which are usually tied to a specific employer.
People with Green Visas can sponsor their family members, including spouse and children, for a specific duration.
Who Can Apply for the Green Visa?
The UAE Green Visa eligibility is open to different types of professionals and investors. To qualify, applicants must meet specific requirements based on their position or business activity.
-
Freelancers & Self Employed Individuals
- Must have a valid freelance or self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- Should have at least bachelors degree or a specialized diploma.
- Must show an annual income of at least AED 360,000 over the past two years
-
Skilled Workers
- Must have a valid income contract in a skilled job.
- The job must fall under first, second, or third occupation levels as defined by MOHRE.
- Should have at least bachelors degree
- Earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 15000
-
Investors and Business Partners
- Must show proof of investment or partnership in UAE based business.
- Required to show necessary approvals and licenses from local authorities.
- Should have proven track record or business portfolio
Benefits of Green Visa UAE
The UAE Green Visa is more than just a long-term residency permit because it offers flexibility, security, and new opportunities for talented individuals.
Here are some of the main benefits of the UAE Green Visa.
1. No Need for Employer Sponsorship
One of the biggest advantages of the Green Visa UAE is that it allows individuals to live and work in the UAE without being tied to a single employer. This is especially beneficial for freelancers, self-employed professionals, and skilled workers who prefer flexibility and independence.
Unlike traditional work visas, you don’t need a company to sponsor you — you can sponsor yourself, giving you greater control over your career and residence.
2. Five-Year Residency with Easy Renewal
The Green Visa is issued for five years and can be renewed easily as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
This extended duration helps visa holders settle in the country, plan long-term careers, and enjoy more stability than short-term visas offer.
3. 180-Day Grace Period After Expiry or Cancellation
Green Visa holders benefit from a generous six-month grace period after the visa is cancelled or expires.
During this time, you can apply for a new visa, change your status, or make plans to leave the country all without facing immediate penalties or overstaying fines.
This feature adds a strong layer of security and peace of mind, especially for professionals navigating career transitions.
4. Ability to Sponsor Family Members
Another significant advantage is the ability to sponsor first-degree family members, including:
- Spouse
- Children (sons up to 25 years old, daughters with no age limit)
- Children with special needs (no age limit)
Family members enjoy the same length of residency as the visa holder, making it easier for families to stay together in the UAE for extended periods.
5. Encourages Entrepreneurship and Innovation
By removing the need for employer sponsorship and welcoming freelancers, the Green Visa encourages a startup-friendly environment.
Entrepreneurs and small business owners can legally live and operate in the UAE, contributing to innovation and economic diversification.
6. Supports Economic Stability and Real Estate Growth
Long-term visas like the Green Visa promote more permanent settlement. This is particularly important for sectors like real estate, where long-term residents are more likely to invest in property.
Banks are also offering more competitive mortgage options to Green Visa holders, further boosting the UAE economy.
Required Documents for Green Visa Application
To apply for the Green Visa UAE, applicants must submit their documents based on their category.
General Requirements (For All Applicants)
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
- Passport sized photographs
- Educational Certificates
- Medical Fitness Test Results
- Proof of health insurance coverage (as per UAE law)
Freelancers
- Freelance or self employment permit issued by MOHRE
- Proof of academic qualifications
- Evidence of annual income of at least AED 360,000 over the past two years.
Investors & Business Partners
- Proof of investment or partnership in UAE based business
- Business license or trade registration document
- MoA or partnership agreement
- Portfolio / business track record
- Approval from relevant UAE authority
How to Apply for the UAE Green Visa?
The process of applying for the UAE Green Visa is simple and can be done through official multiple channels.
Here is a detailed and step by step guide on how to apply:
Step 1: Determine your eligibility.
Before you proceed with your application, identify the category that applies to you:
- Freelance or self-employed
- Skilled Employee
- Investor / Business Partner
Make sure you meet all the Green Visa eligibility requirements based on your category.
Step 2: Prepare your required documents.
You need to gather all the documents required for your application. Ensure that everything is up-to-date and valid, especially your passport, income proof, and educational certificates.
Step 3: Choose your application method.
To apply, you can choose any of these methods:
1. Online Platforms
- UAEICP Smart Services
- GDRFA Dubai (for Dubai-specific applications)
- UAEICP mobile app (available on iOS and Android)
2. In-Person Channels
- Amer Service Centers (for Dubai applications)
- Customer Happiness Centers across the UAE
Step 4: Submit your application.
To submit your application, first you need to log in to the smart portal or visit the center.
Then select “green visa” as your application type and fill out the application form and upload your documents. Last but not the least, review your application before submitting.
Step 5: Pay the Fee.
The Green Visa UAE cost depends on the applicant type but generally includes:
- Visa Application Fee: AED 200 – 3000 (varies)
- ID Card Fee: AED 575
- Medical test: AED 320
- Other admin fee (knowledge dirham, innovation dirham etc)
It is best to check the exact amount with the official authorities at the time of application.
Step 6: Complete the medical check-up.
You need to visit an approved medical center to take your fitness test, including blood test and chest X-ray.
Step 7: Receive your visa.
Once completed and approved, you will receive your 5-year Green Visa UAE. Now you will be eligible to live, work, and sponsor your family in the United Arab Emirates without a local sponsor.
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Conclusion
The UAE Green Visa is a smart step towards building a better future. It gives investors, freelancers, and professionals a clear yet flexible way to live and work in the UAE without depending on a company or sponsor.
If you are planning to build a stable life in the UAE and want more freedom in your work and plans, then Green Visa is the right choice for you
Frequently Asked Question’s
1. How much is a UAE Green Visa?
The cost of a UAE Green Visa usually falls between AED 2,000 and AED 2,500 for the main application. In addition to this, there is an ID card fee of AED 575 and a medical test fee of AED 320. If you are applying from outside the UAE, you’ll also need to pay an entry permit fee of AED 1,250.
2. Who is eligible for a Green Visa in the UAE?
The UAE Green Visa is for skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors who want to live and work in the country without needing a company sponsor. To be eligible, you’ll need to meet certain conditions based on your category — like having a recognized degree, a minimum income level (for skilled workers), and either a valid job contract or proof of self-employment or investment.
3. Is the Green Visa the same as the Golden Visa?
No, the Green Visa and Golden Visa are different. The Green Visa is mainly for freelancers, skilled workers, and self-employed individuals, while the Golden Visa is for investors, entrepreneurs, and highly talented professionals. Both allow long-term residency, but they are designed for different types of applicants and have different requirements.