How to apply through ICP smart services or GDRFA
Eligible professionals can submit their application through the following digital process:
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Step 1: Prepare attested documents
Gather your passport copy, attested degree, 6 months of bank statements, and MOHRE contract or freelance permit.
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Step 2: Apply via ICP Smart Services or GDRFA
Log in via UAE PASS to the ICP portal (for Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, UAQ, Fujairah) or GDRFA portal (for Dubai) and select 'Issue Green Visa'.
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Step 3: Complete medical fitness screening
Undertake the blood test and chest X-ray at an accredited preventive health center.
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Step 4: Issue 5-year Emirates ID
Complete biometric capture and receive your digital and physical 5-year Emirates ID card.
The self-sponsored 5-year Green Visa framework
The UAE’s updated residency framework decoupled long-term residency from traditional employer sponsorship through the 5-Year Green Visa. Governed federally by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and managed locally by GDRFA in Dubai, the visa provides multi-year stability for mid-to-high tier talent.
Unlike standard two-year employment visas where residency is tied to a specific employer’s establishment card, Green Visa holders are self-sponsored. If you change employers, launch an independent practice, or transition between contracts, your residency remains valid.
Requirements for skilled employees (AED 15,000 salary tier)
Skilled professionals currently employed in the UAE mainland or free zones can upgrade to a 5-Year Green Visa if they meet four cumulative conditions:
Valid Employment Contract: An active employment contract registered with MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority.
Occupational Skill Classification: The job title must fall under Skill Level 1 (Managers/Executives), Level 2 (Professionals), or Level 3 (Technicians) in MOHRE’s standard occupational classification.
Educational Qualification: An attested bachelor's degree or equivalent accredited higher-education diploma.
Salary Floor: A verified monthly wage of at least AED 15,000 (or foreign currency equivalent) documented on bank statements and WPS records.
Requirements for freelancers and self-employed talent
For consultants, creative professionals, software engineers, and digital practitioners seeking residency independent of an employer:
MOHRE Freelance Permit: An active freelance/self-employment permit issued by MOHRE or an authorized free zone.
Educational Credential: A bachelor's degree or specialized vocational diploma in the applicant's practicing field.
Financial Solvency Proof: Audited bank statements demonstrating annual income of at least AED 360,000 from freelance activities over the previous two years, or certified proof of personal financial solvency.
Expanded family sponsorship benefits
One of the strongest advantages of the Green Visa is its generous family sponsorship rules. Traditional visa holders face stricter age cutoffs for dependents, but Green Visa sponsors can sponsor:
Spouse (husband or wife).
Unmarried sons up to 25 years of age (allowing sons to remain sponsored through undergraduate and postgraduate studies).
Unmarried daughters with no age limitation.
Children of determination (with special needs) are granted residency regardless of age.
The 180-day grace period and comparison with Golden Visa
If a Green Visa is cancelled or expires, the holder enjoys a 180-day grace period to reside lawfully in the country while securing a new contract, setting up a business, or transitioning to another visa category without incurring daily overstay fines.
While the 10-Year Golden Visa targets investors (AED 2M property) and executive salaries (AED 30,000+), the 5-Year Green Visa bridges the gap, making self-sponsorship attainable for thousands of skilled mid-career professionals earning AED 15,000 or more.