How to Apply for the UAE Green Visa for Skilled Workers
The UAE Green Visa, also known as Green Residency, is one of the long-term residence permits introduced under the revamped visa system in 2022. It is designed to provide highly skilled professionals with more stability, extended residency, and the ability to bring their families to the UAE.
If you are an engineer, IT professional, or manager looking for a five-year residence visa in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE, this guide will walk you through the eligibility, required documents, application process, fees, and key benefits of the Green Visa.
What is the UAE Green Visa?
The Green Visa is a five-year residence permit that can be renewed upon expiry. Unlike a standard work visa, it offers more flexibility and additional advantages:
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Valid for 5 years instead of 2–3 years.
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Holders can sponsor their first-degree relatives (spouse, children, parents).
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A 6-month grace period after cancellation or expiry, giving more time to stay in the UAE legally.
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Available for different categories:
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Skilled workers (main focus of this article).
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Freelancers.
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Investors or partners in a commercial activity.
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Eligibility Criteria for Skilled Workers
To qualify for the Green Visa as a skilled worker, applicants must meet the following conditions:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Work permit | Must obtain a High-Level Skilled Worker permit from MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation). |
| Occupational level | Only Levels 1, 2, or 3 are eligible (according to MOHRE classification). |
| Education | Minimum of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification. |
| Salary | At least AED 15,000 per month (or equivalent in foreign currency). |
| Employment type | Can be with government, semi-government, free zone, or private companies. |
⚠️ Important: Do not cancel your current residence visa before your new Green Visa is issued.
Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare the following documents (digital copies if applying online):
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Valid passport copy (minimum 6 months validity).
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Employment contract (from government, semi-government, free zone, or private employer).
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MOHRE work permit (for skilled workers).
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Salary certificate or bank statement proving monthly income.
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Recent passport-sized photographs (coloured).
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Any additional documents requested by authorities during the review.
Step-by-Step Application Process
There are two main ways to apply:
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Offline: Through an Amer Centre in Dubai (they process visa services on behalf of GDRFA).
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Online: Through the GDRFA Dubai portal.
Online Application via GDRFA
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Visit www.gdrfad.gov.ae.
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Go to Services → Entry Permits → Entry Permit Services → New Entry Permit for Green Residence.
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Select “Issuing Entry Permit for Green Residence (High Skilled Worker)”.
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Log in with your GDRFA account or UAE Pass.
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Fill in the online form with personal and employment details.
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Upload required documents.
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Pay the applicable fees.
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Submit the application.
📩 You will receive updates by SMS and email. If documents are missing, GDRFA gives 30 days to submit them. Failure to do so leads to automatic cancellation of the application.
UAE Green Visa Fees (2025 Update)
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Work visa fee | AED 200 (+ VAT) |
| Knowledge Dirham | AED 10 |
| Innovation Dirham | AED 10 |
| Inside UAE processing fee | AED 500 |
💡 Note: The total cost may vary depending on your case (e.g., inside UAE vs. outside UAE, additional services).
Processing Time and Validity
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Processing time: Usually a few working days, depending on application completeness.
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Validity: 5 years.
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Renewal: Can be renewed upon expiry.
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Grace period: 6 months after cancellation/expiry to remain in the UAE legally.
FAQs About the UAE Green Visa
Is the Green Visa the same as the Golden Visa?
No. The Golden Visa is a 10-year residency offered to investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talents. The Green Visa is a 5-year residency for skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors.
Can freelancers apply for the Green Visa?
Yes. There is a separate category for freelancers and self-employed individuals under the Green Visa program.
Which professions are eligible for skilled worker Green Visa?
Typically Level 1–3 jobs, including engineers, IT specialists, managers, teachers, and healthcare professionals.
How much salary is required for the UAE Green Visa?
At least AED 15,000 per month.
Can Green Visa holders sponsor their families?
Yes, first-degree relatives (spouse, children, parents) can be sponsored.
Need Help With Your Application?
Applying for the Green Visa can be time-consuming, especially if you’re unsure about required documents or the MOHRE process.
👉 Inlex Partners provides professional assistance for Green Visa applications in Dubai and across the UAE. Our experts help you prepare documents, liaise with authorities, and ensure a smooth and fast process.
📞 Contact us today to start your Green Visa journey.
Phone/WhatsApp: +971 52 956 8390
Email: office@inlex-partners.com
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