As the UAE rolls out its largest set of residence visa and entry reforms, residents, tourists, and job seekers will benefit. The Advanced Visa System was implemented on October 4.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) says the new scheme includes more than 15 types of visas, including those for tourists, job seekers, Golden and Green residency permits, and entry permits for truck drivers.
This guide explains the different visas, what has changed, targeted categories, and approximate costs (fees calculated from information on the ICP and GDRFA websites, as well as input from typing center agents and experts.)
Green Visa
This five-year visa targets skilled employees, freelancers and investors. The self-sponsored residency allows holders to sponsor their spouses, children and first-degree relatives.
- Freelancers need a permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. They need proof of income (minimum Dh360,000 annually over last two years), or prove financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
- Skilled employees need to be classified in the first, second or third occupational level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre) and have a minimum monthly salary of Dh15,000.
Total cost: Dh3,175 (Approximate cost includes medical testing, visa and Emirates ID fees)
Job exploration visa
Single-entry permit targets young talents and skilled professionals. It is issued for 60, 90 or 120 days. The visa is granted to those classified in the first, second or third skill level as per Mohre. Fresh graduates from the best 500 universities in the world can apply as well, and candidates should have earned at least a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.
Total cost including Dh1,025 security deposit:
60 days: Dh1,495
90 days: Dh1,655
120 days: Dh1,815
Business entry visa
Single-entry visa is issued for 60, 90 or 120 days. It does not require a sponsor or host and encourages investors and entrepreneurs to explore business and investment opportunities in the UAE.
Total cost including security deposit:
60 days: Dh1,495
90 days: Dh1,655
120 days: Dh1,815
5-year multi-entry tourist visa for all nationalities
Holders of this visa will be able to stay in the UAE for up to 90 continuous days, and it may be extended for a similar period. The entire period of stay should not exceed 180 days in a year.
This visa requires proof of having a bank balance of $4,000 or its equivalent in foreign currencies during a six-month period prior to submitting the application.
Cost: Dh650 (without insurance)
Golden Visa
- Skilled professionals: Minimum monthly salary requirement reduced from Dh50,000 to Dh30,000
- Investors: Property worth at least Dh2 million, even with a loan from specific local banks. Off-plan properties are allowed from approved local real estate companies
- Main benefit: Staying outside the UAE for over six months won’t affect visa validity.
Cost: Dh4,625 (Approximate cost includes medical testing, visa and Emirates ID fees)