As the UAE continues to bring in new changes post the COVID-19 pandemic, visas are a major topic of discussion.

Back in April, the UAE Cabinet approved a number of new visas, as the country continues to welcome expats from around the globe.

“The new system of entry and residence is aimed at attracting and retaining global talents and skilled workers,” the cabinet said via a statement from the media office.

With a host of new visas being granted from today, October 3, 2022, below is everything you need to know.

Visitor visa

Tourist visas were previously limited to 30 days, but as of today visitors are now able to stay for a total of 60 days.

Visitors can apply for a new entry permit that allows them to enter without a sponsor or host if they are a relative or friend of a UAE citizen or resident.

Tourists who wish to visit for a longer period of time can also apply for a five-year multi-entry tourist visa, which lets visitors stay for up to 90 days in one go in the UAE, without exceeding 180 days in one year. A bank balance of $4,000 (Dhs14,692) in the last six months will be required, as proof of sufficient funds.

Business visa

For those who wish to start their own company or invest in other companies, a business visa can be granted without a sponsor.

Temporary work visa

For any project-based work or temporary work assignments, candidates can receive a temporary work visa after submitting a temporary work contract or a letter from the employer and a valid health certificate, per the government website.

Visa for studying/training

This visa is required for internship programmes, study courses and training purposes. The requirements for such a visa include the details of the study or the internship and its overall duration. It can be sponsored by public and private sector educational and research institutes.

Family visa

Families now have the option of sponsoring male children until the age of 25, where it was previously 18 years old only. Sponsorship can also be granted to disabled children and unmarried daughters for an indefinite time.

Job visa

After graduating from the best 500 universities, job-seekers can avail of this latest visa that will be given to bachelor’s degree holders or its equivalent to exploring more job opportunities in the UAE. This visa can be granted to those who fall under the first, second or third skill levels category as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

Already available in the UAE

Multi-entry tourist visa

If tourists wish to visit the UAE and stay for a longer time frame, that’s now possible for up to 90 days and it can be extended for another 90 days without a sponsor with this five-year multi-entry tourist visa. The requirements include a minimum bank balance of $4000 (Dhs14,700) or its equivalent in the last six months before applying.

Green visa

If residents wish to bring their families without a sponsor or employer, this five-year visa is granted to skilled workers, self-employers and freelancers who have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and a minimum salary of Dhs15,000.

Golden visa

Launched as part of a programme in 2019, however, effective in full force since 2021. The Golden visa is now offered to a host of professionals that have changed over the course of time. Golden visa holders can now sponsor their families including their wife and kids without any age limit along with domestic workers.

For entrepreneurs

With the UAE considered a startup hub and with an influx of innovative business, entrepreneurs are now eligible to apply under this category. The requirements are for any small and medium enterprise (SME) to generate not less than Dhs1m in revenue or the individual should be a founder of a previous project that was sold for not less than Dhs7m and it needs to be approved by the Ministry of Economy or competent local authorities.

For real estate owners

The visa categories included those who have a property with a minimum investment of Dhs2 million in real estate, with investors who purchase properties on a mortgage plan where the total investment is Dhs2 million or more.

For ‘exceptional talents’

The categories for receiving the visa have been expanded. Under this category, individuals in fields such as culture & art, sports, investors & innovators, and digital technology can now be beneficiaries of this esteemed visa scheme.

For scientists & researchers

Any notable scientists and those conducting intense research in their field will have an opportunity to apply, based on the recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council. The requirements for this category include a Ph.D. or master’s degree in either of the heads that include engineering, technology, life sciences and natural sciences from well-reputed universities along with proof of research and any achievements.

For outstanding students

Students in UAE secondary schools and exceptional graduates from UAE universities and 100 of the best situated worldwide have an opportunity to apply for this visa. The requirements include sharing their academic performance, year of graduation and university classification.

For skilled workers

Workers who have a Bachelor’s degree, and a valid contract of employment, are classified under the occupational level one or two as defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and have a minimum monthly income of Dhs30,000 will be granted this visa in the UAE.

For more information visit the UAE government website. 

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Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @kasialukaszczuk