UAE launch new visa rules as of October 3, 2022 opening up access to the Golden Visa, job exploration visa, and long-term visa options.
It is expected that from September 2022, the UAE government will implement updated entry visa and residency scheme rules with the aim of expanding eligibility for visas and creating a more dynamic labor market.
Several new entries permits and visas that – for the first time – do not need a host or sponsor have been announced by the UAE Cabinet to benefit visitors, tourists, and job seekers.
These changes enable foreign nationals to remain in the country longer, since employment will no longer be tied to employer sponsorship (which except in some specific cases, could not be converted to long-term residency.
The UAE Cabinet has approved one of the biggest overhauls of the visa residency system in years. The new model, in some cases, ends the need for arrivals to acquire sponsorship. People who enter as visitors will be able to stay for 60 days, rather than 30 days at present.
Long-term visas for the UAE – including the 10-year Golden Residence Visa and the 5-year Green Residence Visa – as well as long-term permits to enter and stay in the country will become a lot more accessible for residents and visitors as of October 3, 2022.
While on one hand, the new executive regulations widen the eligibility criteria to apply for long-term visas, on the other hand, it also widens the number of individuals – in various categories, professions, and roles – who can apply for the long-term visas.
The long-term visas are being granted to investors, entrepreneurs, startup owners, exceptional talents, scientists, professionals in various fields, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline heroes.
The benefits of the long-term visas will extend to immediate family members. Children can be sponsored by the Golden Visa or Green Residence visa holder until the age of 25 – an increase from the previous rule of 18 years – with no age limit for unmarried daughters. Children of determination are granted a residence permit, regardless of their age.