Are you planning to live and work in the UAE without being tied to a single employer?
The UAE Green Visa offers a game-changing opportunity with a 5-year, self-sponsored residency that gives freelancers, skilled employees, and investors the freedom to build a stable and independent life in the Emirates.
Launched as part of the UAE’s sweeping immigration reforms, the Green Visa is specifically designed to attract top talent and drive long-term economic growth. Whether you are a freelancer seeking flexibility, a professional looking for career security, or an entrepreneur investing in the future, the Green Visa could be the ideal pathway.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain exactly what the UAE Green Visa is, who can apply in 2025, the costs involved, the step-by-step application process, and how it differs from a standard UAE work visa, giving you everything you need to know to get started.
What is a Green Visa in the UAE?
The Green Visa is a 5-year residency visa in the United Arab Emirates that allows qualified individuals to self-sponsor their stay without needing a local employer or a UAE national as a sponsor. Launched as part of the UAE’s recent immigration reforms (first introduced in 2022), the Green Visa aims to attract and retain global talent by offering more flexible and long-term residency options.
The 3 Green Visa Categories in the UAE
As of 2025, there are three types of Green Visas available in the UAE, each tailored to different professional and business profiles:
Green Visa for Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals:
Designed for freelancers, independent contractors, and self-employed professionals who hold a valid freelance permit and meet specific income or financial criteria.
Green Visa for Skilled Employees:
Available to skilled professionals working in the UAE who meet minimum education and salary thresholds, with occupations classified under MOHRE’s recognised skill levels.
Green Visa for Investors or Partners:
Targeted at entrepreneurs, investors, and business partners who have invested in or established a business in the UAE, subject to approval from the relevant licensing authority.
Each Green Visa category has its own eligibility requirements, supporting documents, and associated costs, which we will cover in detail below.
1. Green Visa for Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals
Who is it for?
Freelancers, independent contractors, and self-employed professionals without employer sponsorship.
Eligibility Requirements:
Freelance Permit from MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation).
Education: Minimum bachelor’s degree or specialised diploma.
Income: Proof of AED 360,000 (USD 98,000) in annual freelance income over the last two years, or financial solvency documents (e.g., savings, investments).
Documents Required:
Freelance permit from MOHRE.
Attested bachelor’s degree or diploma.
Bank statements, invoices, tax returns, or savings proof.
Passport (valid for at least six months), passport photos.
Medical fitness test report and health insurance.
Completed application forms.
Green Visa for Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals Costs:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Freelance Permit Fee (MOHRE) | 3,000–7,500 AED | Varies by activity sector. |
| Entry Permit and Residency Visa | 200–720 AED | AED 720 if applying inside the UAE (includes status adjustment fee). |
| Emirates ID (5-year validity) | 575 AED | Mandatory for all residents. |
| Medical Fitness Test | 300–500 AED | Blood test and chest X-ray. |
| Typing Centre/Service Provider | Varies (optional) | Assistance fees if used. |
| Health Insurance | Varies | Required for visa issuance. |
2. Green Visa for Skilled Employees
Who is it for?
Skilled professionals working in the UAE who want to self-sponsor.
Eligibility Requirements:
Employment contract with a UAE-based company.
Occupation classified under MOHRE’s Level 1, 2 or 3 categories (e.g., managers, technical professionals, skilled workers).
Education: Minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Salary: Minimum AED 15,000 (USD 4,080) per month.
Documents Required:
Employment contract and employer licence copy.
Attested bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Salary certificate or bank statements.
Passport (valid for at least six months), passport photos.
Medical fitness test report and health insurance.
Emirates ID application.
Green Visa for Skilled Employees Costs:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Permit and Residency Visa | 200–720 AED | AED 720 if applying inside the UAE. |
| Emirates ID (5-year validity) | 575 AED | Mandatory for all residents. |
| Medical Fitness Test | 300–500 AED | Blood test and chest X-ray. |
| MOHRE Work Permit | Varies | Handled by employer (separate from Green Visa). |
| Typing Centre/Service Provider | Varies (optional) | If used. |
| Health Insurance | Varies | Required if not employer-provided. |
3. Green Visa for Investors or Partners
Who is it for?
Entrepreneurs, investors, and partners in UAE mainland or free zone businesses.
Eligibility Requirements:
Ownership or partnership in a UAE business.
Proof of investment through share certificates, Memorandum of Association (MOA), or audited capital documents.
Approval from the relevant UAE licensing authority (e.g., DED, free zone).
Documents Required:
Trade licence copy and shareholding documents.
Capital/investment valuation certificate (if available).
Approval letters from the licensing authority or ICP.
Passport (valid for at least six months), passport photos.
Financial solvency documents (optional but beneficial).
Medical fitness test report and health insurance.
Green Visa for Investors or Partners Costs:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Company Setup and Licence Fees | 10,000–50,000 AED+ | Required for business investment. |
| Entry Permit and Residency Visa | 200–720 AED | AED 720 if applying inside the UAE. |
| Emirates ID (5-year validity) | 575 AED | Mandatory for all residents. |
| Medical Fitness Test | 300–500 AED | Blood test and chest X-ray. |
| Additional Authority Approval Fees | 200–500 AED | Investor approval certificate, if requested. |
| Security Deposit (if applicable) | 2,000 AED | Refundable; not always required. |
| Typing Centre/Service Provider | Varies (optional) | If used. |
| Health Insurance | Varies | Mandatory for visa issuance. |
Tip:
If you are applying specifically as a business partner or shareholder under the Green Visa scheme, we recommend reading our detailed guide: “How to Get a Partner Visa in Dubai Under the Green Visa System“.
How to Apply for a Green Visa in the UAE
Applying for a Green Visa in the UAE is a clear and structured process, whether you are applying from inside the country or abroad. Below, we have outlined a simple step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process with ease.
1. Determine Your Eligibility and Prepare Documents
Identify which Green Visa category you qualify for – Freelancer, Skilled Employee, or Partner/Investor. Gather all required documents, such as your freelance permit, employment contract, business licence, passport (valid for at least six months), passport-size photos, proof of health insurance, and educational certificates.
2. Apply for an Entry Permit (if outside the UAE)
If you are outside the UAE or on a visit visa, you must apply for a Green Visa Entry Permit online via Dubai’s GDRFA portal. Complete the application form, upload your documents, select the appropriate Green Visa category, and pay the relevant fees (around 200–400 AED).
3. Submit Documents and Pay Fees
Upload clear scans of your documents as instructed. Pay the visa application fees online. If applying from inside the UAE, you will also need to pay a status adjustment fee (AED 500).
4. Await Entry Permit Approval
Approval usually takes 1–2 working days. Once approved, you will receive your electronic entry permit. If you are inside the UAE, you can proceed directly to the next steps without exiting the country.
5. Complete Medical Test and Emirates ID Application
Attend your medical fitness test at an authorised UAE medical centre and complete your Emirates ID application, including fingerprinting if required. Make sure you have valid health insurance, as it may be requested before finalising your residency.
6. Receive Residency Confirmation
Once your medical results are clear, your 5-year residence permit will be issued. Your Emirates ID will serve as the official proof of your UAE residency.
Additional Tips:
You can apply through authorised typing centres (such as Amer centres in Dubai) if you prefer in-person assistance.
Double-check all application details to avoid any unnecessary delays.
If moving from a tourist or employment visa, ensure previous sponsorships are properly cancelled.
Processing times are generally quick, but allow a few weeks in case of additional checks.
Key Benefits of the UAE Green Visa (All Categories)
Regardless of the category under which you qualify, all UAE Green Visa holders enjoy the following benefits:
5-year renewable residency (longer than standard 2-3 year work visas).
Self-sponsorship: No need for an employer or UAE national sponsor.
Family Sponsorship: Ability to sponsor spouse, children (sons up to 25, unmarried daughters with no age limit), and your parents. However, there are specific conditions that must be met. Read our blog on ‘How to Sponsor Your Parents in the UAE‘ and ‘UAE Family Visa: How to Sponsor Your Dependants‘ for more information.
Extended Grace Period: You have 6 months to renew or exit the UAE after visa cancellation or expiry (compared to 30 days for standard visas).
Work Flexibility: Freedom to work with multiple employers or start a business (depending on your visa activity).
Independent Residency: Visa is not affected if you change jobs, freelance clients, or restructure your business.
Access to Services: Ability to open bank accounts, rent property, access telecom services, and more.
Path to Stability: Option to renew every 5 years, provided eligibility conditions continue to be met.
Quick Example:
A freelancer who gets a Green Visa can sponsor their family, stay without employer restrictions, and renew after 5 years, exactly the same as a skilled employee or an investor who gets the Green Visa.
What’s the Difference Between a Green Visa and a Work Visa in the UAE?
While both the Green Visa and the traditional Work Visa allow you to legally live and work in the UAE, there are important differences between the two:
| Aspect | Green Visa | Work Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Sponsorship | Self-sponsored (no employer sponsor required). | Sponsored by your employer (company-sponsored). |
| Duration | 5 years (renewable). | 2 years (renewable) for private sector jobs. |
| Changing Jobs | Your visa remains valid even if you change or leave your job. | Your visa is cancelled if you leave your employer. |
| Eligibility | Must meet specific income, education, or investment criteria. | Must have a valid employment offer and contract. |
| Family Sponsorship | Can sponsor family members independently. | Employers must sometimes assist, or conditions apply. |
| Grace Period After Expiry | 6 months to renew or adjust status. | 30 days after cancellation or expiry. |
| Work Flexibility | Can work with multiple companies (depending on work permit). | Must work only for the sponsoring employer. |
| Purpose | Designed for freelancers, skilled employees, and investors. | Designed for standard employer-employee relationships. |
Ready To Get Your Green Visa?
With the UAE’s rapid growth and expanding opportunities, there has never been a better time to establish your future here. The Green Visa offers a flexible, self-sponsored pathway for freelancers, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and investors to live, work, and thrive in the Emirates without the restrictions of traditional employment sponsorship.
At Virtuzone, we make your journey seamless. Whether you need help applying for your Green Visa, business setup, or managing residency formalities, our experts are here to simplify the process. We take care of the paperwork, approvals, and government coordination — so you can focus on building your career, your business, and your life in the UAE.
Contact Virtuzone today for a free consultation and let us help you secure your UAE Green Visa quickly, easily, and with complete peace of mind.
FAQs
What is the Difference Between the Green Residence Investor Visa and the Property Investor Visa in the UAE?
While both visas are designed for investors, they have different eligibility criteria and benefits. The Green Residence Investor Visa is for individuals who invest in or partner with UAE businesses, while the Property Investor Visa is specifically for those who invest in real estate. To explore a detailed comparison between the two, read our full article “Investor Visa Dubai 2025: Green Residence and Property Investor Visa Guide“.
Do I Need a Job or a UAE Employer to Get a Green Visa?
Not always. Freelancers and investors do not need an employer, but must show a freelance permit or business investment. Skilled employees must have a qualifying UAE job at the time of application (minimum AED 15,000 salary), but once the visa is issued, they self-sponsor and can change jobs without affecting their visa. All Green Visa holders must comply with UAE labour laws (e.g., work permits).
Can I Apply for a Green Visa While on a Tourist Visa or Already in the UAE on Another Visa?
Yes, you can apply for a Green Visa whether you are inside the UAE or abroad. If you are in the UAE on a tourist visa, visit visa, or even an existing work or residence visa, you can apply through the ICP or GDRFA portals. If you are switching from a tourist or visit visa, you must pay a status change fee (AED 500) to adjust your status without exiting the country. If you are moving from a work visa, you will need to cancel your current employer-sponsored visa once your Green Visa is approved.
It is a common and straightforward process to apply from within the UAE, provided you follow the correct procedures to update your residency status legally.
How Long Does it Take to Process a Green Visa?
If you have applied for an entry permit approval, it will usually take 1–2 working days. The full process, including the medical test, Emirates ID, and visa issuance, will take around 2–3 weeks. Delays can happen if documents are missing or further verification is needed, especially for investors. It’s best to apply early if your current visa is nearing expiry.
How Do I Renew My Green Visa After 5 years?
The Green Visa can be renewed for another 5 years if you still meet eligibility requirements (freelance permit, job with required salary, active investment, etc.).
Start the renewal process 2–3 months before expiry.
Submit updated documents and complete a new medical test.
Sponsored family members’ visas are renewed along with yours.
You have a 6-month grace period after expiry to complete the renewal, but applying earlier is advised.
Are There Any Travel Restrictions for Green Visa Holders?
Yes, Green Visa holders are not permitted to stay outside the UAE for more than 180 consecutive days, or their visa may be cancelled. Always carry your Emirates ID when travelling, and plan re-entries within six months to maintain your residency.
