Federal Decree-Law No. 29 of 2021 Self-Sponsored Residency
UAE 5-Year Green Visa Guide
Complete handbook on securing a 5-Year Self-Sponsored Green Visa — Skilled employee AED 15k salary rules, freelancer permits, investor partner criteria, 6-month grace periods, and family privileges.
5-Year Self-Sponsored Independence
The **UAE Green Visa** is a 5-year self-sponsored residence visa designed for high-skilled talent, freelancers, and investors.
Green Visa holders enjoy self-sponsorship without employer ties, 6-month grace periods upon cancellation, and simplified family sponsorship.
Skilled Employee Green Visa (5-Year Self-Sponsored)
| Evaluation Parameter | Requirement & Standard |
|---|---|
| Education Prerequisite | Bachelor's Degree or higher (attested) |
| Salary / Financial Prerequisite | AED 15,000 / month basic salary (under Skill Level 1, 2, or 3) |
| Permit / Contract Prerequisite | Valid employment contract in the UAE |
| Self-Sponsorship Privileges | 5-Year self-sponsored residence without employer visa sponsorship requirement |
Key Green Visa Benefits
- 💚 5-Year Self-Sponsored Residence: No UAE employer sponsor needed
- 💚 Family Sponsorship: Sponsor first-degree relatives (spouse, sons up to age 25, unmarried daughters)
- 💚 6-Month Grace Period: 180-day grace period upon visa cancellation to search for new options
- 💚 Identical Residency Rights for Family: Family members receive matching 5-year residency
Application Workflow
- 1. Obtain MoHRE Freelance Permit or Salary Certificate (AED 15k+)
- 2. Attest Bachelor Degree Certificate via MOFA & MOE equivalency
- 3. Submit application via ICP Smart Services or GDRFA Dubai portal
- 4. Complete Medical Fitness Examination & Emirates ID biometrics
- 5. Receive 5-Year Green Visa Emirates ID
Frequently Asked Questions
The Green Visa is a 5-year self-sponsored residence visa for skilled employees, freelancers, and investors without needing an employer sponsor.
Minimum monthly basic salary of AED 15,000, bachelor's degree, and Skill Level 1, 2, or 3 contract.
Green Visa holders receive an extended grace period of up to 6 months (180 days) upon cancellation.
ICP & MoHRE Portal
• ICP Green Visa Portal: icp.gov.ae
• MoHRE Freelance Permits: mohre.gov.ae