United Arab Emirates visas
The UAE issues residence via employer-sponsored work permits, Golden Visa long-term residence for skilled professionals and investors, the Green Visa for self-sponsored skilled workers, and a remote-work visa for overseas employees.
Official portal
Primary source
UAE Government Portal — Visa & Emirates ID · Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP)
Link last verified:
Regulators of immigration advice
- UAE Ministry of Justice — Lawyers Affairs Department (MOJ) — Licenses legal consultants and lawyers authorised to practice in UAE courts.
Visa routes (6)
UAE Golden Visa
10-year renewable residence visa for investors, entrepreneurs, and outstanding talent across professional categories.
No sponsor needed · Leads to settlement · Last reviewed 18 April 2026
UAE Green Visa
5-year self-sponsored residence for skilled employees, freelancers, and investors.
No sponsor needed · Non-settlement · Last reviewed 18 April 2026
UAE Employment (Standard Residence) visa
Standard employer-sponsored residence for workers recruited by UAE companies.
Sponsor required · Non-settlement · Last reviewed 18 April 2026
UAE Virtual Working Programme
1-year residence for remote workers employed by companies outside the UAE.
No sponsor needed · Non-settlement · Last reviewed 18 April 2026
UAE Investor / Partner residence visa
Residence for business owners and partners holding qualifying shares in UAE companies.
No sponsor needed · Non-settlement · Last reviewed 18 April 2026
UAE freelance permit with residence
Self-sponsored freelance residence via MOHRE or free-zone freelance permits.
No sponsor needed · Non-settlement · Last reviewed 18 April 2026
Recent United Arab Emirates policy changes
·material
UAE expands Green Visa eligibility for freelancers and skilled workers
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.
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