Quick Answer
The Green Visa is a 5-year self-sponsored UAE residency for skilled workers, freelancers, and investors. Unlike a standard employment visa, it is not tied to an employer and the holder sponsors themselves and their family.
Introduced in 2022 as part of the UAE's expanded residency framework, the Green Visa decouples residency from a single employer. A skilled worker can hold the visa while changing jobs freely; a freelancer or self-employed professional can sponsor themselves; and a small investor can qualify without the AED 2 million threshold of the Golden Visa.
Eligibility differs by track. Skilled employees typically need a recognised bachelor's degree, a job classified in MOHRE's top skill levels, and a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000 (ICP). Freelancers need a MOHRE freelance or self-employment permit and annual freelance income of at least AED 360,000 over the previous two years (ICP). Investors qualify through an approved investment or commercial licence.
The Green Visa allows the holder to sponsor family members, including the spouse and children (ICP), and grants a longer grace period if the underlying status lapses. It sits between the standard 2–3 year employment visa and the 10-year Golden Visa. ZETUP PRO assesses which track fits a client's profile and manages the ICP / GDRFA application end to end.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UAE Green Visa?
The Green Visa is a 5-year self-sponsored UAE residency for skilled workers, freelancers, and investors. Unlike an employment visa it is not tied to an employer — the holder sponsors themselves and their family.
Who is eligible for the Green Visa?
Skilled employees (typically a recognised bachelor's degree, a top-skill-level job, and a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000, per ICP), freelancers with a MOHRE freelance or self-employment permit and annual freelance income of at least AED 360,000 over the previous two years (ICP), and qualifying investors.
How is the Green Visa different from the Golden Visa?
The Green Visa is 5 years and mid-tier (skilled salary, freelance, or investor routes); the Golden Visa is 10 years with higher thresholds. Both are self-sponsored.
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