UAE Green Visa – Eligibility, How to Apply & Cost

After the successful launch of the Golden Visa and the newly introduced Blue Visa, the UAE now offers another forward-thinking residency option - the Green Visa.

This 5-year residency program is specially designed for freelancers, self-employed individuals, skilled professionals, and even real estate investors. What makes it different? The Green Visa allows individuals to sponsor themselves, without needing a UAE employer or local citizen to act as their sponsor.

In this article, we’ll walk you through exactly who can apply, how to apply, and what you need to qualify for this highly practical residency route. Whether you're a digital nomad, skilled employee, or an investor looking to settle in the UAE, this guide will clear up everything.

What Is the UAE Green Visa?

The Green Visa is a 5-year self-sponsored UAE residence visa that provides flexibility and long-term security to qualified individuals. It was introduced to attract global talent and make the UAE more accessible to freelancers, tech experts, remote workers, and professionals working independently.

Unlike a traditional work visa, the Green Visa allows you to live and work in the UAE without needing a local sponsor or employer - you’re in full control.

Who Can Apply for the Green Visa?

There are three main groups eligible to apply under the Green Visa category. Let’s break them down one by one.

1. Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals

If you work for yourself - whether in tech, design, consulting, coaching, or any service-based field - you may qualify. But there are specific conditions:

A. You must have a freelance or self-employment permit issued by MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) in the UAE
B. A bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma is required
C. You must show proof of income from self-employment over the past two years, totaling at least AED 360,000

Or, you must demonstrate financial stability for your stay in the UAE

This means you must already be working legally in the UAE or have a valid UAE freelance permit - not one issued in the UK, USA, or other countries.

2. Skilled Employees

Professionals working in high-demand sectors like IT, finance, engineering, marketing, or healthcare may qualify under this category.

To be eligible:

A. You must have a valid employment contract
B. Your job should fall under the first, second, or third occupational levels as defined by MOHRE
C. You should hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
D. Your salary must be at least AED 15,000 per month

So, if you're employed in Dubai, and meet the education and salary criteria - you’re on the right track.

3. Real Estate Investors

This is where many non-residents find their opportunity.

If you live in the UK, Europe, the USA, or anywhere outside the UAE, and don’t hold a UAE freelance permit or job contract, you cannot apply as a freelancer or employee. We receive a large number of inquiries from professionals abroad asking:

“I’m a freelancer in the UK - can I apply for the UAE Green Visa?”
The answer is no - only UAE-issued freelance permits are accepted.

However, there is another option.

If you own property in Dubai worth AED 1 million or more, you can apply for a 5-year Green Visa through real estate investment. This has become a popular route for international investors who want UAE residency without being tied to a job or company. Or another option is through business setup in UAE to get the residency.

Green Visa Requirements: At a Glance

Here’s a quick overview of the main requirements based on category:

For Freelancers & Self-Employed:

a. UAE freelance permit (issued by MOHRE)
b. Bachelor's degree or diploma
c. AED 360,000 in income over 2 years or financial proof

For Skilled Employees:

a. UAE job contract
b. Bachelor’s degree minimum
c. Salary of AED 15,000 or more
d. Occupation must fall under MOHRE’s skilled levels

For Real Estate Investors:

a. Property value of AED 1 million or more
b. Title deed issued by the Dubai Land Department
c. Ownership can be joint (shared with spouse)

Documents Required for Green Visa UAE

a. Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
b. Freelance permit from MOHRE (for self-employed applicants)
c. Employment contract with salary details (for skilled workers)
d. Degree or diploma certificate
e. Proof of income or property ownership
f. Bank statements or title deed, depending on your visa path

Need help preparing your file? That’s exactly what we do at COFTT.

What Are the Benefits of the UAE Green Visa?

a. 5-year renewable residency without needing a sponsor
b. Freedom to work, live, and invest in the UAE
c. Ability to sponsor dependents (spouse, children, parents)
d. Real estate option for non-residents to secure UAE residency
e. Peace of mind for long-term freelancers and professionals

It’s flexible. It’s future-focused. And it’s built for people like you who want a life and business setup in Dubai on their own terms.

How COFTT Can Help You Get the Green Visa

At COFTT, we’ve helped professionals, investors, and freelancers from over 30 countries secure the right UAE residency options based on their backgrounds and goals.

We assist with:

a. Document preparation and verification
b. Application submission on ICP portal
c. Real estate visa through property ownership
d. Custom strategies for residents and non-residents

If you’re serious about relocating to Dubai or setting up your career and lifestyle in the UAE, we’ll walk with you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts – Is the UAE Green Visa for You?

If you're already working in the UAE as a skilled employee or licensed freelancer - you might be eligible. If you’re abroad and want UAE residency, real estate investment is your best route to a 5-year Green Visa.

Either way, this visa gives you long-term security and a foundation to grow your life or business in the UAE.

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Want to explore your eligibility or need help applying? Contact COFTT - we’ll guide you through it, the right way. Email us at info@coftt.com today!