The UAE has established itself as a favorite destination for expats from all over the globe, and one of the primary factors contributing to this is the favorable visa policies enacted by the government. Of these, the Golden Visa, Silver Visa, and Green Visa are the most used, with each serving different classes of people as determined by their purposes, abilities and investment potential. If you are intending to relocate to the UAE, or you are already in the country, it is important to understand these visa types because the type of visa one chooses depends on several factors. Let’s look at each of these types of visas and their advantages.
1. Golden Visa Dubai
The golden visa is one of the most effectual residency visas that can be acquired in UAE. This type of visa was developed in 2019 and specifically targets unique individuals that are skilled or wealthy. It is particularly aimed at investors, entrepreneurs, researchers, academically distinguished students, and professionals in specialized fields.
Key Features of the Golden Visa:
- Validity: 5 or 10 years, renewable on specific terms.
- Target Groups: Investors, specialized talents, researchers, outstanding students, and entrepreneurs.
- Business Ownership: 100% ownership is allowed, which is a significant advantage for entrepreneurs and investors.
- Sponsorship Requirement: No sponsor is required, making it easier for applicants to live and work in the UAE independently.
- Family Sponsorship: The Golden Visa allows sponsorship of family members, including spouses, children (regardless of age), and domestic helpers.
- Investment Requirements: Investing in a property worth AED 2 million is a common pathway to obtain this visa, with the property required to be held for a minimum of three years.
This visa is ideal for high-net-worth individuals and professionals looking to build a long-term future in the UAE. Its primary goal is to encourage investment in the country while also attracting talented individuals who can contribute to the nation’s development.
2. Green Visa Dubai
Introduced to attract skilled workers and entrepreneurs, the Green Visa provides a more flexible option for self-employed individuals and skilled workers. This visa aims to make the UAE’s job market more competitive by offering a five-year residency to highly skilled professionals, freelancers, and top students.
Key Features of the Green Visa
- Validity: 5 years, renewable.
- Target Groups: Freelancers, self-employed individuals, skilled employees, and entrepreneurs.
- Sponsorship Requirement: No sponsor is needed to apply.
- Family Sponsorship: The Green Visa holder can sponsor their spouse, children, and first-degree relatives.
- Eligibility for Specialized Talents: This visa targets skilled workers with specific qualifications, including a bachelor’s degree or equivalent education. Additionally, freelancers and self-employed individuals who can demonstrate financial stability are also eligible.
- Entry Work Permit: It includes a six-month entry visa with multiple entries, which offers flexibility to applicants.
- Salary Requirements: Applicants must meet a salary threshold (typically AED 15,000 per month) or have a self-employment permit.
The Green Visa is ideal for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs who are looking for a residency option that offers more independence than the traditional work visa, and who want to bring their family along.
3. Silver Visa Dubai
The Silver Visa is a residency option designed for individuals who want to live and work in the UAE but do not necessarily have the capital to invest in a property or the high qualifications required for the other two visas. This visa offers a maximum stay of five years and is an excellent choice for individuals looking for a longer-term stay in the UAE.
Key Features of the Silver Visa:
- Validity: Up to 5 years, with the possibility of permanent residence.
- Target Groups: Investors who make real estate or financial investments in the UAE.
- Sponsorship Requirement: No sponsor is required.
- Business Ownership: Not specified, but applicable for individuals who meet certain investment criteria.
- Family Sponsorship: The Silver Visa allows sponsorship for immediate family members, including spouses and children.
- Investment Requirements: Investors can qualify for the Silver Visa through investments in real estate, companies, or various sectors of the economy. It’s an accessible visa for those with a moderate financial capacity.
This visa is perfectly suited for those who wish to work or invest in the UAE for an extended period but don’t meet the higher financial requirements of the Golden Visa. It also offers an easier path to permanent residency, which makes it appealing for long-term residents.
Conclusion: Which Visa is Right for You?
Each of the UAE’s visa options offers unique benefits and is designed to serve different needs. Here’s a quick summary:
- Golden Visa: Best for high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, researchers, and professionals with exceptional talents. It offers long-term residency with benefits like 100% business ownership.
- Green Visa: Ideal for skilled workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who want a flexible residency option without a sponsor. It also allows for family sponsorship.
- Silver Visa: A great option for those who wish to invest in real estate or sectors in the UAE but do not qualify for the Golden Visa’s higher financial requirements. It offers a 5-year stay with family sponsorship.
Whether you’re an investor, a skilled professional, or an entrepreneur, understanding the Golden Visa, Silver Visa, and Green Visa options will help you choose the best pathway to living and working in the UAE. Stay updated on the latest visa policies and changes with BLZ’s blog, your go-to resource for insights on new rules and incentives introduced by the UAE government to attract top talent and investments.