What’s new:
As the UAE continues to adjust its offering and framework post the COVID-19 pandemic, some major changes were introduced in the country’s immigration offering.
Adjustment to Standard Length of “Mainstream UAE Visa”
As of 4 October 2022, the [previously standard] 3 years visa validity will no longer be available for visa applicants such as investors, employees, and dependents. The newly available visa validity will be 1 or 2 years for all types of new visas, visa renewal, and visa transfers.
The authorities have confirmed that all visa applications under process will automatically be converted to the 2 years validity without the need to reapply. All Residence visas/Emirates ID issued before 4 Oct 2022 for 3 years will remain valid for such period until renewal.
No changes or reductions in applicable Government disbursements for the 2 years visa were introduced.
Golden Visa Revamp and new UAE Visa Schemes are now live
The 2 years validity changes come into effect on the heels of the ‘go-live’ of the newly introduced UAE visa schemes and revamped Golden Visa regulations.
- UAE Long Term ‘Golden Visa’ – 10 Years: First implemented in 2019, enables foreign talents and investors to live, work and study in the UAE. The criteria to obtain the 10-year “Golden Visa” has now been eased – see here
- UAE Long Term ‘Green Visa’ – 5 Years: Aimed at attracting unique talents in specific niche sectors, e.g. highly skilled/people, investors, entrepreneurs, and people with special expertise.
- UAE Multiple Entry Tourist Visa – 5 Years: Enables tourists and visitors of all nationalities to enter multiple times on self-sponsorship and remain in the UAE for 90 days on each visit, with an extension for another 90 days available.
- UAE Job Exploration Visa – 30/90 days: Introduced with the aim of attracting young talents and skilled professionals to explore job opportunities available in the country.
- UAE Tourist Visa for Business – 30 days: Aimed at encouraging investors and entrepreneurs to explore business and investment opportunities locally.
- UAE Tourist Visa for Relative/Friends – 30 days: Enables visitors to apply for UAE entry permit if related or friend of a UAE citizen/resident.
The ever-expanding menu of visas available is a great news for foreigners to secure both mid- and long-term residency in the country, and in the turn to capitalize on its many benefits. To learn more on the topic, see our fact sheet illustrating all main visa categories available.
M/HQ can assist with profiling, guidance, and facilitation of a suitable mid and long-term residency in the UAE. Our team is then on hand to assist with execution, from assessment and preparation of required supporting documents to preparation of the supporting dossier ahead of filing with authorities for approval.
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