Green visa for work
What is the UAE’s Green visa?
The UAE’s Green visa is a type of residence visa, that allows its holder to sponsor himself/herself for 5 years, eliminating the need for a UAE national or employer to sponsor his/her visa.
Who can apply for a Green visa?
Freelancers, self-employed and skilled employees can apply for a Green visa.
1-Freelancers and/or self-employed people
Freelancers and/or self-employed people who wish to apply for a Green visa need to submit:
- a freelance/self-employment permit from Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
- proof of a bachelor’s degree or a specialised diploma
- evidence of annual income from self-employment for the previous two years amounting to not less than AED 360,000, or proof of financial solvency throughout their stay in the UAE.
2-Skilled employees
To apply for a Green visa, skilled employees must:
- have a valid employment contract
- be classified in the first, second or third occupational level as per Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
- hold a minimum of bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- have a salary of not less than AED 15,000 per month.
Renewing the visa
The visa is renewable for the same term upon its expiry.
Read related news coverage on WAM.
For more information on the Green visa, contact:
Standard work visa
A foreigner can get a normal employment visa, usually for two years, if he/she is:
- Employed in the private sector
- Apply for a residency visa for a person working in the private sector – GDRFAD Dubai
- Employed in the government sector or a free zone
- Apply for a residency visa for an individual in (free zone) – GDRFAD Dubai
The employer must apply for the standard residence visa.
Golden visa
Abu Dhabi Residents Office
Abu Dhabi Residents Office (ADRO) helps new residents to settle in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and supports their integration into the UAE’s culture and society. The office provides smart services for visa applications, welcome guides for residents, as well as active research and engagement programmes that promote a stable life in the emirate.
Contact Abu Dhabi Residents Office for queries about living, working, investing and retiring in Abu Dhabi.
Updated On :
11 Jun 2025
