Several changes to residency laws will go into force starting next month, including a greatly expanded Golden Visa program, a new five-year Green residency, a multiple-entry tourist visa, and entry permits for job seekers.
The main entrance and residence amendments undertaken in the UAE include these new visas and entry permits.
Both visitors and expatriates who live and work in the UAE would profit greatly from the new arrangement. For foreigners and high-net-worth individuals wishing to establish a long-term presence in the UAE, this will also make the Emirates an even more investor-friendly nation.
All of these new executive regulations regarding entry and residence laws will go into effect 90 days after they are published in the Official Gazette, according to a UAE Cabinet decision made public in mid-April.
The list of visas that were released in April is provided below. Some of them have already been adopted, and the majority will go into effect starting next month:
Tourist visa with multiple entries: The new five-year visa with multiple entries does not require a sponsor and entitles the holder to a stay of up to 90 days, which may be extended for 90 days more.
On this tourist visa, a person may stay for a maximum of 180 days. Prior to applying, the applicant must have a bank balance of $4,000 (Dh14,700) or its equivalent in foreign currencies.
Business visa: Entrepreneurs and investors can apply for a business visa without the help of a sponsor or host.
Temporary work visa: Application for a temporary work visa is possible if you have a short-term job, such as a probationary period or project-based work. A temporary work agreement or a letter from the company, as well as proof of fitness, must be submitted by candidates.
Visa to visit friends/relatives: A foreigner may apply for a visa to visit family or friends if they are related to or close to an Emirati or a resident of the country. An organizer or host is not necessary for this.
Job visa: Those looking for work can apply for this new visa to investigate prospects in the UAE. The only qualifications for this visa are having a bachelor’s degree.
Family visa: Only parents could apply to sponsor their minor children. Up until the age of 25, male youngsters can now be sponsored.
Children with disabilities also receive a special visa, and daughters who are single can be sponsored indefinitely.
Green visa: Holders of this five-year visa may bring their families along without the assistance of a sponsor or employer. This visa is open to skilled employees, independent contractors, freelancers, etc. A Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent and a salary of Dh15,000.
Golden Visa: The UAE has announced Golden Visas for a variety of professional categories and investors who wish to permanently enjoy the highest standard of living available in the nation
The list of Golden Visas for various categories is below:
Real estate: To be qualified for the visa, a minimum investment of Dh2 million must be made in real estate. Investors who purchase both off-the-plan and mortgaged real estate are permitted as long as their combined total investment is Dh2 million or more.
Startups: Under three criteria, entrepreneurs can now apply for Golden Visas: (1) startups must be registered in the nation; (2) they must fall under the SME category; (3) and their annual turnover must be Dh1 million or above.
Scientists: Experts in their area can apply for a Golden Visa if they have a PhD or Master’s degree from a prestigious university in the biological sciences, natural sciences, technology, or a related subject and meet the following requirements: an endorsement from the Emirates Science Council.
Exceptional talent: People with remarkable skill can apply for a Golden Visa if they work in the fields of art, culture, digital technology, sports, innovation, medicine, or law. They require a letter of reference or endorsement from the concerned government body.
Skilled workers: the following requirements must be met: a Bachelor’s degree; a current employment contract; a line of activity that falls under occupational levels one or two as established by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization; and a monthly income of at least Dh30,000.
Students: The Golden Visa is available to exceptional students who have earned outstanding grades in UAE secondary schools and colleges or who are accepted into one of the top 100 universities in the world.
Khaleej Times is the news source.
