·United Arab Emirates·Material change·In force
UAE expands Green Visa eligibility for freelancers and skilled workers
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
ICP widened Green Visa eligibility criteria for freelancers, self-employed workers, and skilled employees, extending the 5-year self-sponsored residence option to a broader profile of applicants.
What changed
- Freelancers and self-employed applicants can qualify for the Green Visa with proof of professional qualification and minimum income thresholds set by ICP, without an employer sponsor.
- Skilled-employee Green Visa applicants require a valid employment contract classified in ICP occupational skill level 1, 2 or 3, plus a minimum monthly salary and a bachelor-level qualification.
- Green Visa holders can sponsor first-degree relatives and children up to age 25, broader than the standard employment-visa family sponsorship window.
Routes affected
Primary source
Primary source
ICP — Green Residence ↗ · Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP)
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