UAE Cabinet approves new visa entry rules
The UAE cabinet, headed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the executive regulations of the Federal Decree-Law on Entry and Residence of Foreigners aimed at strengthening the UAE position as an ideal destination to live, work, and invest.
The executive regulations provide comprehensive information on the types and conditions of entry visas and residence permits. The new system of entry and residence aims at attracting and retaining global talents and skilled workers from all over the world, and boosting the competitiveness and flexibility of the job market and fostering high sense of stability among UAE residents and families.
Major improvements include introducing new 5-years residence tracks to attract talents, skilled professionals, freelancers, investors and entrepreneurs. More benefits are offered to facilitate family members residence, and longer flexible grace periods that reach up to six months to stay in the country after the residence permit is cancelled or expired, in addition to facilitating and simplifying the requirements of all residence types.
Green residence for skilled employee
A new track that provides a 5 years residency for skilled employees, without sponsor or employer. The applicants should have a valid employment contract, and should be classified in the first, second or third occupational level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. The minimum educational level must be a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and the salary should not be less than fifteen (15) thousand dirhams.
Green residence for freelancing and self-employment
In line with the growing importance of flexible work models, this track provides a 5 years residency for freelancers and self-employed individuals without requiring a sponsor or employer in the UAE.
It requires obtaining a freelance/ self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, the minimum educational level should be bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma, and the annual income from self-employment for the previous two years should not be less than AED360,000, or that the applicant proves financial solvency throughout their stay in the country.
Green residence for investor or partner
This residence is introduced to encourage investment, it provides 5 years residency for investors establishing or participating in commercial activities. It replaces the previous residence that was valid for 2 years only.
Requirements including approval of the investment and proof of investment. If the investor (partner) has more than one license, the total invested capital will be calculated. Approval of the competent local authorities is mandatory.
Job exploration entry visa
This visa is introduced with the aim of attracting young talents and skilled professionals to explore job opportunities available in the country, it does not require a sponsor or a host. It is granted to those classified in the first or second or third skill level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and the fresh graduates of the best 500 universities in the world and the minimum educational level should be a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.
Business Entry Visa
Easy entry without requiring sponsor or host to encourage investors and entrepreneurs to explore business and investment opportunities in the UAE.
Entry Permit for a Temporary Work Mission
This type is intended for those who have a temporary work assignment like probation testing or project- based mission, and is sponsored by the employer. It requires a temporary work contract or a letter from the employer clarifying the visit purpose and proof of health fitness to work.
The executive regulations of the Federal Decree-Law on Entry and Residence of Foreigners shall come into force after 90 days from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.
