The UAE Cabinet has already approved the implementation of new visa policies to welcome expats and foreign investment from around the globe. While authorities informed the public about visa policies in April 2022, the new rules regarding immigration and visa reformations will come into force in September 2022.
According to the UAE government, “The new system of entry and residence is aimed at attracting and retaining global talents and skilled workers." The new visa regulations for entry and residence in the country intend to boost economic competitiveness and strengthen the UAE's position as the ideal destination to live, work, and invest in!
But what do the latest types of entry visas and residence permits cover? Do they apply to you? Know everything about the new visa types and regulations.
Read on to find out more!
1. Business Visa
If you are an entrepreneur who wants to start your own business or invest in a start-up in the UAE, you can apply for a business visa without a sponsor.
A business visa is primarily a part of the Golden Visa system under which foreign investors and entrepreneurs can get long-term residency.
Eligibility criteria
Any professional with entrepreneurial experience from any country can apply for a business visa.
To apply for a business visa,
-You must be able to prove your entrepreneur experience.
-You must be a primary shareholder of a company/start-up or a major shareholder of a company.
-You should have a business plan or idea and aim to migrate and establish a business in one of the seven emirates in the UAE.
In order to apply for a business visa, you must have your nomination approved by an incubator supported by the UAE government.
Connect with an expert consultant to assist you with the most tedious errand of processing a business visa with Ascent Partners!
2. Multi-entry Tourist Visa
The UAE government introduced a 5-year multiple-entry tourist visa in addition to regular tourist visas. This category does not require a sponsor and allows applicants to stay in the country for up to 90 days.
We can extend the stay for a similar period on the condition that the entire duration of the stopover does not exceed 180 days over a year.
This visa will require proof of a minimum bank balance of USD4,000 or the equivalent amount in foreign currency in the six months preceding their application.
3. Visa for study or training
Individuals who plan to visit the UAE to attend specific training, an internship, or a course can get a visa for study/training sponsored by public and private educational institutes. It requires a letter with the details and the duration.
4. Temporary Work Visa
If you’re visiting the UAE for a temporary project or assignment-based work, you can apply for a temporary work visa. You can submit a temporary work contract or letter from the employer with a health certificate.
5. Family Visa
This visa will provide multiple benefits, including parents being able to benefit their male children till they attain 25 years of age, as opposed to the earlier limit of 18 years, and sponsor any unmarried daughters indefinitely, among other things. Children of determination also get a residence permit irrespective of their age.
6. Job Visa
Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent can apply for a job visa to explore the job opportunities available in the UAE. It will be available to those who fall under the first, second, or third-level skill levels as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
The visa aims to attract skilled professionals and talented young individuals to the country. They will not require sponsors or hosts to apply for a visa.
7. Green Visa
A green visa provides a 5-year residency visa to skilled employees, self-employers, freelancers, etc., without a sponsor. It also allows them to bring their families. The minimum educational qualification of such an applicant would have to be a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and they should have a monthly income of AED 15,000.
8. Golden Visa
The Golden visa offers residency for either 5 or 10 years, depending on the category and requirements.
Any investors, scientists, entrepreneurs, expert professionals, humanitarian pioneers, outstanding students and graduates, and even frontline heroes can apply for a Golden visa.
Golden visa allows individuals to sponsor their family including spouse, children and domestic workers.
However, there are no restrictions on the maximum duration of stay outside the UAE to keep the visa valid.
Some other attractive benefits for family members include provisions to allow them to stay in the UAE until the end of the permit duration in the case of the death of the original Golden Visa holder.
As we can see, these changes attract investment and skilled professionals to the UAE. These schemes will also make it easier for the family members of residents to gain various benefits.
Furthermore, the visa categories have also shown favorable developments for young professionals and talents, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) backgrounds. Collectively, they serve as a remarkable set of regulations to assist the UAE in gathering a base of talented and efficient professionals while fueling the monetary value required to boost economic growth and employment figures.
How can Ascent Partners help?
Ascent Partners provides bespoke business setup and advisory services for entrepreneurs looking to set up their next venture in Dubai.
With services ranging from business consultation and bank account opening to choosing the right business activity and applying for a business licence, our experts help provide essential guidance to help you strategise, startup, and scale in Dubai.
Get in touch with us at ask@ascentpartners.ae or at 04 422 7339 to learn more!