Dubai offers multiple visa options for professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers. Among them, the Golden Visa and Green Visa stand out for long-term residency and career growth. Choosing the right visa depends on your profession, investment capacity, and long-term plans.
What Is the Green Visa?
The UAE’s Green Visa is a five-year residence permit that allows self-sponsorship. It is ideal for:
- Freelancers
- Self-employed individuals
- Skilled employees
Eligibility for Freelancers and Self-Employed:
- Obtain a freelance or self-employment permit
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma
- Show annual income of at least AED 360,000 or financial solvency
Eligibility for Skilled Employees:
- Valid employment contract
- Classified at first, second, or third occupational level
- Minimum bachelor’s degree
- Monthly salary of AED 15,000 or more
Benefits of the Green Visa:
- Sponsor family members, including children up to 25 and unmarried daughters
- Grace period of up to six months after visa expiration or cancellation
- Entry work permit of 60 days to complete the application in UAE
The Green Visa is excellent for those who want flexibility, family benefits, and stable residency without employer sponsorship.
What Is the Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa valid for 5 or 10 years. It targets investors, specialized talents, entrepreneurs, and outstanding students.
Eligibility Categories:
- Investors: Minimum AED 2 million investment in certified funds or business
- Real Estate Investors: Property worth at least AED 2 million
- Entrepreneurs: Innovative projects with approval from local authorities
- Specialized Talents: Medical professionals, scientists, creatives, innovators
- Business Leaders & Academics: Bachelor’s degree with at least 5 years in executive roles
- Athletes: Endorsement from relevant sports councils
Golden Visa Benefits:
- Long-term residency for up to 10 years, renewable
- Self-sponsorship; no employer required
- Sponsor family members, including domestic helpers
- Extended stay outside UAE without affecting visa validity
- Ensures family security until permit expiration
This visa suits high-income professionals, investors, and individuals aiming for long-term career growth in Dubai.
Green Visa vs Golden Visa
- Validity:
- Golden Visa: 5 or 10 years
- Green Visa: 5 years
- Golden Visa: 5 or 10 years
- Target Groups:
- Golden Visa: Investors, specialized talents, researchers, entrepreneurs
- Green Visa: Freelancers, self-employed, skilled employees
- Golden Visa: Investors, specialized talents, researchers, entrepreneurs
- Sponsorship Requirement:
- Golden Visa: Not required
- Green Visa: Not required
- Golden Visa: Not required
- Family Sponsorship:
- Golden Visa: Spouses, children, domestic helpers
- Green Visa: Spouses, children, first-degree relatives
- Golden Visa: Spouses, children, domestic helpers
- Grace Period:
- Both visas: Up to 6 months after cancellation or expiration
- Both visas: Up to 6 months after cancellation or expiration
- Entry Permit:
- Golden Visa: 6-month multiple-entry visa
- Green Visa: 60-day entry work permit
- Golden Visa: 6-month multiple-entry visa
Choosing the Right Visa for Your Career
- Freelancers or skilled employees: Green Visa
- Investors, entrepreneurs, or specialized talents: Golden Visa
- Family-focused residency: Both options provide sponsorship, but Golden Visa allows domestic helpers
- Long-term stability and extended residency: Golden Visa is ideal
Making the right choice ensures legal work status, career growth, and secure residency in Dubai.
Get Professional Assistance
AR Associates can guide you in choosing the right Dubai Visa, securing your residency, and even handling company formation or investment requirements. Our expertise ensures a smooth, legal, and stress-free visa application. Contact AR Associates today to secure your ideal visa and advance your career in Dubai.
