The UAE government has made significant changes in a massive overhaul of the visa system. Expats will see the new visa rules as a significant improvement over the current system. The plan was to make it easier for people to live and work in the UAE.
In this article we look at the UAE visa changes in 2022 and what they mean for those looking to move to the region.
What has happened?
The UAE Cabinet has approved regulations of the Federal Decree-Law on Entry and Residence of Foreigners.
Significant changes will be introduced and put in place to make the UAE a better and more stable place to work and live .
Under the new scheme, there are 10 types of entry visas. However, visas fall under three under the new system:
- A Golden Residence Visa, lasting 10 years
- A Green Visa, granting a 5-year residency
- 60-day visit visas
UAE golden visa changes for 2022
SamaiA Golden Residence Visa grants a 10-year residency in the UAE to the following:
- Investors
- Entrepreneurs
- Scientists
- Outstanding graduates and students
- Exceptional talents
- Frontline heroes
- Humanitarian pioneers
Under new ruling , there will be no maximum duration restrictions. So, even if you stay outside of the UAE, the Golden Residence will remain valid.
Golden Residence – skilled professionals
One of the biggest changes to the golden visa looks to attract more skilled professionals.
To qualify, applicants must hold a valid employment contract in the UAE. The job needs to be classified in either the first or second occupational level, defined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
The minimum educational level is still the same, requiring a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. However, the minimum monthly salary requirement has dropped from Dh50,000 to Dh30,000.
Golden Residence – exceptional talents
Golden Residence is awarded to talented individuals who excel in their field.
For this category, residency is awarded based on talent alone. Your educational level, employment status and salary do not play a part.
Recommendation or approval from a government entity is required. Some of the fields considered include but are not limited to:
- Culture
- Art
- Digital technology
- Innovation
- Sports
Golden Residence – real estate investors
Golden Residence can be obtained through a real estate investment in the UAE. The property must be worth a minimum of aed2 million.
With the changes, investors can now purchase a property with a loan. You should note that the loan must come from a specific bank.
Another key change expands on the buying options. Off-plan properties from an approved local real estate company are now included. Again, the value must be no less than Dh2 million.
Those who own, or are a partner, in a start-up can also obtain Golden Residence status. Here are the requirements:
- The start-up must be registered in the country
- It falls under the category of small and medium enterprises SME
- It generates annual revenues of Dh1 million or more
Golden Residence – scientists
Those who work in the sciences of physics, chemistry and biology and furthermore excel in their field are also eligible.
Here are the requirements:
- A recommendation from the Emirates Scientists Council
- A PhD or master’s degree from a leading university in the following fields:
- Life sciences
- Natural sciences
- Technology
- Engineering
UAE green visa changes for 2022
The green visa provides 5-years of residency in the UAE without the need for a sponsor or employer.
The holder can also bring their family members with them for five years. Under the old system, the residence visa holder could only sponsor family members for two years.
Green visas are available to skilled workers, freelancers and self-employed individuals. Those looking to make an investment in the UAE can also acquire one.
The requirements are:
- A minimum educational level of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a specified field
- A salary of no less than Dh15,000
As the UAE looks to drive foreign investment into the region, the green visa has been changed and updated for investors.
If requirements are met, a five-year residency is granted. Currently under the old system , it is two years. They include the following:
- Proof of investment
- Approval of the investment
UAE visit visa changes for 2022
Existing visas will see some changes starting from September 2022. Existing visas will see some changes from September 2022. . New types of visas will also be introduced to provide increased flexibility.
Until now, people who went to the UAE as a visitor were able to stay for a period of 30 days . Under the new system, this has been increased to 60 days. The new model offers more options for visitors.
A new job exploration visa will also be introduced . This visa aims to attract talented young people and skilled employees. They will have the chance to come to the UAE and explore the job market with the hopes of gaining employment. This visa does not require a sponsor from within the country , making it appealing to those looking for job opportunities in the region.
The exploration visa is also on offer for those looking to explore investment opportunities in the UAE. This visa also does not require a sponsor or host.
Multi-entry tourist visa
A regular tourist visa already exists under the current system. However, starting on September 2022, a five-year multi-entry tourist visa will also be available to the public.
A requirement for this visa is having a bank balance of over $4,000 (aed14,600) during the previous six months before you submit your visa application.
Like the visas mentioned before , this does not require a sponsor. Once granted, you can remain in the UAE for 90 consecutive days. It is also possible to extend your stay if needed , however this shouldn’t exceed 180 days.
Family sponsorship
Family members who hold a visa will benefit more under the new system. As a parent, you can sponsor a male child until they are 25. Previously, this was only up until 18 years of age. Also, regardless of age, children with a disability now receive a residence permit. Parents are also able to sponsor unmarried daughters at any age indefinitely.
As a result of these new changes , you need legal advocates and consultants that can assist with immigration and citizenship , we at Abdulshafe & Co. can help with any visa related issues that you are trying to resolve.
