There are many Differences between UAE’s Green Visa and Golden Visa. Such as the duration of each visa, eligibility criteria and benefits. While both offer residency options to individuals in the UAE. There are some similarities and distinctions between the two visa systems.

In this article. We will discover what is Golden Visa and green visa and what is the difference between Golden Visa and residency visa in UAE. Also, what the application processes are like for each and help you determine which is the right option for your employment needs. Here you will find everything you need to understand about the green visa and the golden visa.

Similarities and Distinctions

Some of the similarities and Difference between UAE’s Green Visa and Golden Visa are:

• Both visas allow Emiratis to sponsor themselves without an employer. The Green and Golden Visa will provide this in comparison to the normal visas received by people with 2 or 3 year stays of permanent residence.
• As well, some of the difference between UAE’s Green Visa and Golden Visa is. That the UAE Golden Visa is aimed at people from almost all recognized and high profile professions. It aims to grant visas to people working in areas that are essential to the nation’s industrial development.
• While, the UAE green visa is limited to those who specialize in commercial activities such as investment and entrepreneurial skills.
• Also, a Difference between UAE’s Green Visa and Golden Visa is that the Golden Visa Dubai offers a residency lasting up to ten years, while the green residency visa the maximum period of residency granted to its holders is five years.
• The UAE Golden Residency has included provisions for distinguished individuals in all highly profiled disciplines. Such as: investors, talented athletes and technology specialists. But, the green visa initiative also has room for the self-employed.

Green Visa

What is the green visa in UAE? Well, this visa is specifically designed to cater to individuals involved in sectors that align with the UAE’s sustainable development goals. As a means to attract entrepreneurs with a strong focus on sustainable and green business initiatives.

That is why; the UAE government offers support and resources to Green Visa holders for the development and expansion of their sustainable projects. This offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to connect and collaborate with like-minded individuals and businesses within the UAE’s thriving green sector.

Besides. Another difference between UAE’s Green Visa and Golden Visa is that eligible Green Visa holders can enjoy exemptions and incentives. Such as reduced business set-up costs, tax advantages and access to grant funding.

Duration, Benefits, and Eligibility

Another Difference between UAE’s Green Visa and Golden Visa is. That the green visa lasts for 5 years and offers the following benefits:

• A five-year residence permit in the United Arab Emirates.
• Self sponsorship.
• You can sponsor first-degree relatives.
• Six-month grace period after visa cancellation or expiration.

According to the decision issued by the UAE Cabinet in April this year. The Green Visa is available for these three categories:

• Applicant must obtain a self-employed/independent work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Empowerment (MOHRE).
• Also, minimum educational level must be bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma.
• Annual income from self-employment during the previous two years must not be less than 360,000 dirhams. Or the applicant must prove financial solvency during his/her stay in the country.
• Green Residency for qualified employees Applicants must have a valid employment contract.
• They must be classified in the first, second or third occupational level according to MOHRE.
• The minimum educational level must be a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Salary should not be less than 15,000 dirhams.
• Five-year Green Residency for investors and partners.

Application Process

• Self-employed with a minimum annual income of AED 360,000 for the last 2 years or those who can prove their financial solvency for their stay in the UAE. Must have a specialized bachelor’s degree/diploma and a self-employed or freelance work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
• Qualified employees with a valid employment contract. They must also have a minimum salary of AED 15,000 per month and must be classified in the first, second or third occupational level by the Ministry of Manpower and Emiratization.
• Investors or business partners. Proof of investment and approval from the relevant local authorities is also required. With a UAE Green Visa, you can sponsor yourself for a five-year residency program.

Golden Visa

The Difference between UAE’s Green Visa and Golden Visa is that the UAE Golden Visa is an initiative aimed at attracting entrepreneurs, investors and qualified professionals to boost the country’s economic progress. This program gives non-citizens the opportunity to reside, work and establish businesses in the UAE without the requirement of a local sponsor.

Also, with the Golden Visa, you have the freedom to own and operate your business without the requirement of a local partner. You also enjoy access to essential government services, including health care, education and utilities. You can sponsor your immediate family members, such as your spouse, children and parents, allowing them to live and work in the UAE.

Duration, Benefits, and Eligibility

Among many Difference Between UAE’s Green Visa and Golden Visa. The UAE Golden Visa grants a period of residence of up to 10 years and these are some the benefits of the Golden Visa:

• There is no restriction on the maximum length of stay outside the UAE to maintain valid Golden Residency.
• An e-visa valid for six months will be provided while applicants proceed with the residency visa issuance process.
• Family members may remain in the UAE in the event of the death of the original Golden Visa holder until the end of the duration of their permit.
• No sponsor or employer is required.

The categories for golden visa eligibility are:

• Investors: Public investment, Real estate investment.
• Owners of successful registered start-ups.
• Exceptional talents in culture and arts, Investors and innovators, Sports, Digital technology and other vital fields.
• Scientists, CEOs and senior officials, Engineering professionals, and Healthcare professionals.
• Top performing students in high schools Top graduates of UAE universities Graduates of the world’s top 100 universities.
• Distinguished members of international and regional organizations, public benefits and sponsors of humanitarian efforts.

Application Process

Among the Difference between UAE’s Green Visa and Golden Visa is that you can also apply for a Golden Visa if you fall into one of the categories listed above through:

• An Amer center in Dubai. Amer centers process visa applications on behalf of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs in Dubai.
• A Federal Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security Authority customer satisfaction center in other Emirates. Simply visit the center along with your passport and employment or investment details to start the process.

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