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Time of India
a day ago
- Business
- Time of India
What is UAE Green Visa (2025)? Who is eligible, how to apply: Everything you need to know
UAE Green Visa explained/Representative Image TL;DR: The UAE Green Visa is a 5‑year, self‑sponsored residence permit that enables skilled workers, freelancers/self‑employed professionals, and small investors/partners to live in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. Key eligibility requirements vary by category: AED 15,000/month salary, AED 360,000 annual freelance income, or minimum AED 1 million investment. Benefits include self‑sponsorship, ability to sponsor families (children up to 25, no age limit for unmarried daughters or dependents of determination), and a 6‑month grace period after expiry. Applications are submitted via ICP smart services or GDRFA portals , with standard fees including AED 200 issue fee, AED 500 entry permit, and nominal innovation/knowledge charges. The UAE's Green Visa has established itself as a flexible, self‑sponsorship residency permit, available to skilled workers, freelancers, self‑employed professionals, and small investors. With a 5‑year renewable term, relaxed family sponsorship rules, and autonomy from employer sponsorship, the Green Visa supports the UAE's ongoing strategy to attract global talent and support economic diversification. What Is the Green Visa? The Green Visa is a renewable 5-year residence permit, designed to give professionals, investors, and freelancers greater mobility, autonomy, and long-term residency stability in the UAE. Importantly, it allows holders to self-sponsor their stay without employer or national sponsorship. This initiative supports the UAE's broader economic goals of attracting skilled talent, empowering entrepreneurship, and driving innovation. It complements other programs like the Golden Visa and newer Blue Visa by targeting mid‑level professionals and contributors. Who Qualifies: Eligibility Requirements The Green Visa supports three main applicant categories, each with distinct criteria: 1. Skilled Employees Must have a valid employment contract with UAE-based company or free zone. Classified in Level 1, 2, or 3 by MoHRE (e.g., managers, scientists, technicians). Must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent. Minimum monthly salary: AED 15,000 (~US$4,080). 2. Freelancers / Self-Employed Professionals Must hold a freelance or self‑employment permit from MoHRE. Must have a bachelor's degree or diploma. Annual income requirement: AED 360,000 (~US$98,000) for past two years or proof of financial solvency. As of 2025, some freelancers report difficulty finding information on obtaining permits. The permit must originate from MoHRE and may require coordination with free zones. 3. Investors / Partners Must participate in or own local business(es) with investment amount of at least AED 1,000,000. Required to obtain ICP approval pursuant to investor-rating system and prove registered capital across all trade licenses. Requires confirmation from relevant local authorities. Benefits of the Green Visa Self‑sponsorship: No UAE-based employer or national sponsor needed. 5-year residency, renewable upon continued eligibility. Family sponsorship allowed: spouse, children (sons up to 25, unmarried daughters unlimited age), and parents in some cases. Children of determination have no age limit. Sponsors receive same visa term. Grace period: Earned up to 6 months after visa expiry or cancellation. Multiple-entry flexibility: e‑visa is issued early, allowing entry while residence permit processes. How to Apply Via Online Government Channels Log into Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship (ICP) Smart Services portal or GDRFA portal. Select the "Green Residency issuance service." Choose your category (skilled, self-employed, investor). Upload documents (passport, diploma, employment contract or income proofs, freelance permit or investment certificate). Pay fees: Residency issuance: AED 200 Entry permit: AED 500 Knowledge Dirham: AED 10 Innovation Dirham: AED 10 Delivery/service charges as applicable. Undergo medical fitness test at authorized centre. Receive e‑visa, then proceed with Emirates ID, biometrics and residency stamping. Via Customer Happiness/Amer Centres Request paper application assistance at registered centres. Submit documents in person and pay fees after verification and biometric capture. Typical processing time: 2–4 weeks, depending on application category and verification delays. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Premium 1 BHK at Mahindra Citadel – Coming Soon! Mahindra Citadel Enquire Now Undo The Green Visa stands out as a deliberate step toward a more inclusive and independent residency model, aligning with the UAE's broader goals of building a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy under Vision 2030. By enabling professionals and investors to live and work without employer constraints, it promotes freedom, stability, and flexibility. Whether you're a high-earning skilled worker, freelancer seeking autonomy, or small investor exploring long-term residency, the Green Visa offers a practical, validated route. Its benefits: family-friendly terms, self-sponsorship, and grace periods underscore the sustainability of this model for both expats and the UAE's economic future. FAQ 1. What is the duration of the Green Visa? It's a 5-year residence permit, renewable upon meeting criteria. 2. Can I sponsor my family? Yes. Benefits include sponsoring spouse, children up to 25, unmarried daughters of any age, and children of determination. 3. What income/salary criteria exist? Skilled: AED 15,000/month. Freelancers: AED 360,000/year over last two years or financial solvency. Investors: AED 1 million+ capital. 4. Do I need a sponsor? No. The Green Visa allows self-sponsorship, no UAE employer or national required. 5. How long can I stay after expiry? Up to a 6-month grace period after visa expiry or cancellation.
Time of India
a day ago
- Business
- Time of India
What is the UAE Green Visa (2025)? Who is eligible: Everything you need to know
UAE Green Visa explained/Representative Image TL;DR: The UAE Green Visa is a 5‑year, self‑sponsored residence permit that enables skilled workers, freelancers/self‑employed professionals, and small investors/partners to live in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. Key eligibility requirements vary by category: AED 15,000/month salary, AED 360,000 annual freelance income, or minimum AED 1 million investment. Benefits include self‑sponsorship, ability to sponsor families (children up to 25, no age limit for unmarried daughters or dependents of determination), and a 6‑month grace period after expiry. Applications are submitted via ICP smart services or GDRFA portals , with standard fees including AED 200 issue fee, AED 500 entry permit, and nominal innovation/knowledge charges. The UAE's Green Visa has established itself as a flexible, self‑sponsorship residency permit, available to skilled workers, freelancers, self‑employed professionals, and small investors. With a 5‑year renewable term, relaxed family sponsorship rules, and autonomy from employer sponsorship, the Green Visa supports the UAE's ongoing strategy to attract global talent and support economic diversification. What Is the Green Visa? The Green Visa is a renewable 5-year residence permit, designed to give professionals, investors, and freelancers greater mobility, autonomy, and long-term residency stability in the UAE. Importantly, it allows holders to self-sponsor their stay without employer or national sponsorship. This initiative supports the UAE's broader economic goals of attracting skilled talent, empowering entrepreneurship, and driving innovation. It complements other programs like the Golden Visa and newer Blue Visa by targeting mid‑level professionals and contributors. Who Qualifies: Eligibility Requirements The Green Visa supports three main applicant categories, each with distinct criteria: 1. Skilled Employees Must have a valid employment contract with UAE-based company or free zone. Classified in Level 1, 2, or 3 by MoHRE (e.g., managers, scientists, technicians). Must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent. Minimum monthly salary: AED 15,000 (~US$4,080). 2. Freelancers / Self-Employed Professionals Must hold a freelance or self‑employment permit from MoHRE. Must have a bachelor's degree or diploma. Annual income requirement: AED 360,000 (~US$98,000) for past two years or proof of financial solvency. As of 2025, some freelancers report difficulty finding information on obtaining permits. The permit must originate from MoHRE and may require coordination with free zones. 3. Investors / Partners Must participate in or own local business(es) with investment amount of at least AED 1,000,000. Required to obtain ICP approval pursuant to investor-rating system and prove registered capital across all trade licenses. Requires confirmation from relevant local authorities. Benefits of the Green Visa Self‑sponsorship: No UAE-based employer or national sponsor needed. 5-year residency, renewable upon continued eligibility. Family sponsorship allowed: spouse, children (sons up to 25, unmarried daughters unlimited age), and parents in some cases. Children of determination have no age limit. Sponsors receive same visa term. Grace period: Earned up to 6 months after visa expiry or cancellation. Multiple-entry flexibility: e‑visa is issued early, allowing entry while residence permit processes. How to Apply Via Online Government Channels Log into Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship (ICP) Smart Services portal or GDRFA portal. Select the "Green Residency issuance service." Choose your category (skilled, self-employed, investor). Upload documents (passport, diploma, employment contract or income proofs, freelance permit or investment certificate). Pay fees: Residency issuance: AED 200 Entry permit: AED 500 Knowledge Dirham: AED 10 Innovation Dirham: AED 10 Delivery/service charges as applicable. Undergo medical fitness test at authorized centre. Receive e‑visa, then proceed with Emirates ID, biometrics and residency stamping. Via Customer Happiness/Amer Centres Request paper application assistance at registered centres. Submit documents in person and pay fees after verification and biometric capture. Typical processing time: 2–4 weeks, depending on application category and verification delays. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Up to 70% off | Shop Sale Libas Undo The Green Visa stands out as a deliberate step toward a more inclusive and independent residency model, aligning with the UAE's broader goals of building a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy under Vision 2030. By enabling professionals and investors to live and work without employer constraints, it promotes freedom, stability, and flexibility. Whether you're a high-earning skilled worker, freelancer seeking autonomy, or small investor exploring long-term residency, the Green Visa offers a practical, validated route. Its benefits: family-friendly terms, self-sponsorship, and grace periods underscore the sustainability of this model for both expats and the UAE's economic future. FAQ 1. What is the duration of the Green Visa? It's a 5-year residence permit, renewable upon meeting criteria. 2. Can I sponsor my family? Yes. Benefits include sponsoring spouse, children up to 25, unmarried daughters of any age, and children of determination. 3. What income/salary criteria exist? Skilled: AED 15,000/month. Freelancers: AED 360,000/year over last two years or financial solvency. Investors: AED 1 million+ capital. 4. Do I need a sponsor? No. The Green Visa allows self-sponsorship, no UAE employer or national required. 5. How long can I stay after expiry? Up to a 6-month grace period after visa expiry or cancellation.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Is UAE giving Golden Visa to farmers? Two Thai women the first receiepients for growing dates abroad
The two Thai women, who run a farm with over 5,000 date palms, participated in the Dubai Dates Festival to showcase their produce and promote cultural exchange/ Image: Khaleej Times, TikTok The UAE's Golden Visa is one of the most sought-after residencies in the region, usually granted to investors, scientists, entrepreneurs, and other high-profile professionals. But this year, for the first time, two Thai women running a date farm were awarded the visa, raising questions, and curiosity, about how farming and culture can open unexpected doors. How Two Thai Farmers Became Golden Visa Recipients The two women, owners of Orawan Farm in Thailand, manage a large-scale date plantation with more than 5,000 fruit-bearing palm trees. They're not just farmers; they're also entrepreneurs who've turned their farm into a business, producing and marketing dates within Thailand and beyond. Their recognition didn't come through the usual channels, they didn't apply, invest, or go through a formal process. Instead, they were nominated directly by Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the authority that oversees Golden Visa approvals. The nomination was made during their visit to Dubai, where they were invited participants in the ongoing Dubai Dates Festival. There, they met personally with Lt Gen Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA, who acknowledged their work in a face-to-face meeting. According to Khaleej Times, their nomination was based on their role in 'promoting date cultivation beyond the UAE and spreading Emirati heritage and values globally,' helping raise global awareness of the fruit, which holds deep cultural and historical meaning in Emirati life. What Makes Their Story Stand Out On paper, the UAE's Golden Visa program does not list farmers or agricultural workers as eligible categories. It's primarily designed for individuals who contribute to the country's growth through investment, entrepreneurship, real estate, science, culture, education, and humanitarian work. The visa typically goes to business owners, researchers, skilled professionals, or those with significant capital. But this case is different, and that's exactly why it matters. The Thai women aren't just growing dates. They've also been using social media platforms like TikTok to creatively promote the health benefits and cultural relevance of dates, reaching audiences who might not otherwise engage with the topic. They've essentially become informal ambassadors of the fruit, and by extension, of a tradition that's central to the UAE's heritage. Their selection marks the first time the Golden Visa has been awarded to foreigners cultivating dates outside the Emirates, a significant recognition that comes with real advantages. The visa grants 10 years of renewable residency, allows recipients to live and work without employer sponsorship, and includes the ability to sponsor family members and hire domestic staff. For many, it's a gateway to long-term security and flexibility in the UAE. Another factor that sets them apart is their proactive involvement. They travelled from Thailand to take part in a UAE-based cultural and agricultural event, a move that reflects genuine interest and initiative. Participating in a niche festival like this, rather than promoting their work from afar, likely played a role in getting their efforts noticed by local authorities. Where It Happened: The Dubai Dates Festival The award took place during the Dubai Dates Festival, which runs from July 25 to August 1 at Qalaat Al Remaal (Al Remah Fort), along the Dubai–Al Ain Road. The event, now in its second edition, is organized by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center and focuses on both the agricultural and cultural importance of date palms. The festival includes: 13 competition categories, including rare varieties like Dubai Hilwa and awards for Homegrown Palm and Largest Cluster A weeklong date palm auction, held in partnership with Emirates Auction Traditional tools and exhibits, showcasing historical farming methods like digging, pollination, and harvesting A display of archival photographs tracing the stages of date farming Food stalls offering sweets and other traditional products made from dates Open daily from 10am to 10pm, the event blends education, commerce, and cultural storytelling, and it's clear that the Thai women's participation wasn't just a side event. It was central to why they were recognized.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
UAE Golden Visa for farmers? How two Thai women became the first receiepients for growing dates abroad
The two Thai women, who run a farm with over 5,000 date palms, participated in the Dubai Dates Festival to showcase their produce and promote cultural exchange/ Image: Khaleej Times, TikTok The UAE's Golden Visa is one of the most sought-after residencies in the region, usually granted to investors, scientists, entrepreneurs, and other high-profile professionals. But this year, for the first time, two Thai women running a date farm were awarded the visa, raising questions, and curiosity, about how farming and culture can open unexpected doors. How Two Thai Farmers Became Golden Visa Recipients The two women, owners of Orawan Farm in Thailand, manage a large-scale date plantation with more than 5,000 fruit-bearing palm trees. They're not just farmers; they're also entrepreneurs who've turned their farm into a business, producing and marketing dates within Thailand and beyond. Their recognition didn't come through the usual channels, they didn't apply, invest, or go through a formal process. Instead, they were nominated directly by Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the authority that oversees Golden Visa approvals. The nomination was made during their visit to Dubai, where they were invited participants in the ongoing Dubai Dates Festival. There, they met personally with Lt Gen Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA, who acknowledged their work in a face-to-face meeting. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Always Put a Plastic Bottle on Your Tires when Parked, Here's Why Cleverst Undo According to Khaleej Times, their nomination was based on their role in 'promoting date cultivation beyond the UAE and spreading Emirati heritage and values globally,' helping raise global awareness of the fruit, which holds deep cultural and historical meaning in Emirati life. What Makes Their Story Stand Out On paper, the UAE's Golden Visa program does not list farmers or agricultural workers as eligible categories. It's primarily designed for individuals who contribute to the country's growth through investment, entrepreneurship, real estate, science, culture, education, and humanitarian work. The visa typically goes to business owners, researchers, skilled professionals, or those with significant capital. But this case is different, and that's exactly why it matters. The Thai women aren't just growing dates. They've also been using social media platforms like TikTok to creatively promote the health benefits and cultural relevance of dates, reaching audiences who might not otherwise engage with the topic. They've essentially become informal ambassadors of the fruit, and by extension, of a tradition that's central to the UAE's heritage. Their selection marks the first time the Golden Visa has been awarded to foreigners cultivating dates outside the Emirates, a significant recognition that comes with real advantages. The visa grants 10 years of renewable residency, allows recipients to live and work without employer sponsorship, and includes the ability to sponsor family members and hire domestic staff. For many, it's a gateway to long-term security and flexibility in the UAE. Another factor that sets them apart is their proactive involvement. They travelled from Thailand to take part in a UAE-based cultural and agricultural event, a move that reflects genuine interest and initiative. Participating in a niche festival like this, rather than promoting their work from afar, likely played a role in getting their efforts noticed by local authorities. Where It Happened: The Dubai Dates Festival The award took place during the Dubai Dates Festival, which runs from July 25 to August 1 at Qalaat Al Remaal (Al Remah Fort), along the Dubai–Al Ain Road. The event, now in its second edition, is organized by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center and focuses on both the agricultural and cultural importance of date palms. The festival includes: 13 competition categories, including rare varieties like Dubai Hilwa and awards for Homegrown Palm and Largest Cluster A weeklong date palm auction, held in partnership with Emirates Auction Traditional tools and exhibits, showcasing historical farming methods like digging, pollination, and harvesting A display of archival photographs tracing the stages of date farming Food stalls offering sweets and other traditional products made from dates Open daily from 10am to 10pm, the event blends education, commerce, and cultural storytelling, and it's clear that the Thai women's participation wasn't just a side event. It was central to why they were recognized.
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE Golden Visa: 2 Thai women granted 10-year residency for promoting date farming
Two Thai women were granted the UAE Golden Visa in recognition of their efforts in promoting sustainable agriculture, particularly date palm cultivation. The recognition was granted by Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), whose director general, Lt Gen Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, personally met the two Thai women who are participating in the ongoing Dubai Dates Festival. The annual event, organised by the Hamdan Bin Mohammad Heritage Centre, celebrates Emirati agriculture and cultural heritage. The recipients, owners of Orawan Farm in Thailand, manage over 5,000 fruit-bearing date palm trees. Beyond cultivation, they have gained attention for creatively promoting the health benefits of dates through TikTok, helping expand global awareness of the fruit's significance. Recognising their role in 'promoting date cultivation beyond the UAE and spreading Emirati heritage and values globally," the GDRA nominated them for the Golden Visa — marking the first time he visa has been awarded to foreigners for cultivating dates outside the Emirates. According to Thai PBS World, dates in Thailand are mostly grown in Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, Kanchanaburi, and in the Northeastern provinces, with yellow Barhi dates as the most popular variety. The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa that enables foreign talents to live, work, or study in the UAE while enjoying exclusive benefits. Investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline heroes are among those eligible for the Golden Visa.
