UAE Visa Types & Requirements
A Detailed Look at Visa Categories and Eligibility
Understanding the different types of UAE visas and their specific requirements is essential for planning your move or business in the Emirates. This guide provides detailed information on the main visa categories, including eligibility criteria, required documents, and key features.
Employment Visa
Purpose: For individuals employed by a UAE-registered company.
Sponsor: UAE employer.
Validity: 2-3 years (renewable).
Key Requirements:
- Job offer from a UAE company.
- Work permit issued by MOHRE.
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
- Passport-sized photographs.
- Medical fitness test (upon arrival).
- Emirates ID application.
Golden Visa
Purpose: Long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talents.
Sponsor: Self-sponsored (no sponsor required).
Validity: 5 or 10 years (renewable).
Eligibility Categories & Requirements:
| Category | Key Requirement |
|---|---|
| Real Estate Investor | Own property worth at least AED 2 million. |
| Public Investment Investor | Deposit of at least AED 2 million in an investment fund or establish a company with capital of AED 2 million. |
| Entrepreneur | Own a startup valued at AED 500,000 or have approval from an accredited incubator. |
| Exceptional Talent | Recognized talents in science, arts, culture, sports, etc., with endorsement from relevant UAE ministry. |
| Scientists & Researchers | Researchers with significant achievements, endorsed by relevant authorities. |
| Outstanding Students | High-achieving students from UAE universities or top global universities. |
Investor / Partner Visa
Purpose: For shareholders or partners of a UAE company.
Sponsor: Own company.
Validity: 2-3 years (renewable).
Key Requirements
- Ownership stake in a UAE Mainland or Free Zone company.
- Valid trade license.
- Memorandum of Association (MOA).
- Valid passport.
- Medical fitness test.
- Emirates ID application.
Green Visa
Purpose: Self-sponsored residency for skilled employees and freelancers.
Sponsor: Self-sponsored.
Validity: 5 years (renewable).
Key Requirements:
- Skilled Employees: Minimum educational level (bachelor’s degree or equivalent) and minimum salary (AED 15,000/month).
- Freelancers/Self-Employed: Valid freelance permit from a recognized UAE authority. – Valid passport. – Medical fitness test. – Emirates ID application.
Family / Dependent Visa
Purpose: For family members of a UAE resident.
Sponsor: UAE resident (employee, investor, or Golden Visa holder).
Validity: Linked to sponsor’s visa validity.
Key Requirements:
- Sponsor must meet minimum salary requirements (typically AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 + accommodation).
- Proof of relationship (attested marriage certificate, birth certificates).
- Sponsor’s valid residence visa and Emirates ID.
- Adequate accommodation (tenancy contract/Ejari).
- Medical fitness test for dependents.
- Emirates ID application for dependents.
Freelance Visa
Purpose: For self-employed professionals.
Sponsor: Free Zone authority.
Validity: 1-3 years (renewable).
Key Requirements:
- Freelance permit from a designated Free Zone.
- Proof of professional qualifications or portfolio.
- Valid passport.
- Medical fitness test.
- Emirates ID application.
General Documents Required for Most Visas
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, with blank pages).
- Passport-sized photographs (white background).
- Completed application forms.
- Medical fitness certificate (issued in UAE).
- Emirates ID application.
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