The United Arab Emirates today tops the list of the most attractive global destinations, thanks to its thriving economic opportunities and high quality of life. It has become the top choice for investors, professionals, students, and even families seeking a stable and promising future.
Today, those interested in real estate investment in the country are wondering about the types of residence permit in the UAE to choose the one that suits them. Moving to this advanced Gulf state is no longer an ordinary step but a gateway to a future full of opportunities and potential.
In this article, Laryan Property offers you a complete guide to residence permit in the UAE, including detailed information about real estate residency and its requirements.
What are the types of residence permit in the UAE?
The United Arab Emirates offers various types of residence permit to cater to the needs of different expatriates and residents. These permit differ in purpose and requirements.
They include long-term options, such as the Golden Residence permit, which targets investors and talented individuals, and is one of the most notable types of residence permit in Dubai specifically.
There are also work-related residency, issued based on employment contracts in both government and private sectors.
Additionally, the real estate investor permit requires owning property of a certain value and can last up to two years, with the possibility of renewal.
Furthermore, remote work permits have emerged as a popular choice following the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing foreign workers to work from within the UAE for global companies based outside the country.
The following sections provide a detailed overview of each type of residence permit in the UAE, in order…
The Golden Residency is one of the most important types of residence permit in the UAE
The Golden Residency is one of the most sought-after residence permit, allowing its holder to reside in the UAE for up to 10 years without the need for a local sponsor. This permit targets investors, entrepreneurs, talented individuals, scientists and researchers, and humanitarian workers.
The Golden Residency offers numerous benefits, including:
- Facilitated entry and exit from the country.
- The ability to stay outside the UAE for up to 6 months.
- Allowing the sponsor’s family to remain in the country throughout the permit’s validity, and even after the sponsor’s passing.
Key methods to obtain the Golden Residency include purchasing property in Dubai or other areas of the UAE or making an investment in a project with a specified financial amount for entrepreneurs.
Real Estate Investor Residency in the UAE
Real Estate Investor Residency is a highly sought-after option for these days, especially in Dubai. This residency is designed to attract global investments into the UAE’s rapidly expanding real estate market.
This residency allows individuals investing in properties in Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE to obtain a visa valid for up to two years, with the possibility of renewal.
To qualify for the Real Estate Investor Residency in the UAE, the following conditions must be met:
The property must be valued at no less than AED 750,000.
The investor must have full ownership of the property, which must be ready for occupancy and not mortgaged. If the property is mortgaged, 50% of its value must be paid off to the bank.
The Real Estate Investor Residency provides numerous benefits, including:
- Freedom of movement within the UAE and abroad.
- The ability to sponsor family members.
- Access to banking and financial services specifically for real estate investors.
The Real Estate Investor Residency is an excellent choice for those looking to invest in the UAE’s booming real estate market and enjoy living in one of the world’s safest and most stable countries.
Work Residency in the UAE
In 2024, work residency in the UAE includes three options: the Standard Work Visa, the Green Residence Visa, and the Domestic Worker Visa. Each type is granted to specific categories of individuals.
1. Standard Work Visa in the UAE
This visa is issued to individuals working in the UAE, whether employed in the public or private sector, and is valid for two years.
2. Green Residence Visa for Work in the UAE
This visa is valid for 5 years and is renewable. It does not require a local sponsor or guarantor. It is available to freelancers and private sector business owners, provided they hold a bachelor’s degree or a specialized diploma and have an annual income of at least AED 360,000.
3. Skilled Worker Visa in the UAE
This visa is granted to individuals in high-demand professions, provided they have a bachelor’s degree and are classified within the first, second, or third level according to the occupational classification set by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization. The individual must also earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000.
Blue Residence Visa in the UAE | A New Type of Residency in the UAE
The Blue Residence Visa is relatively new and targets highly skilled individuals who make significant contributions to the protection of marine, terrestrial, and aerial environments. It is aimed at members of international organizations, global companies, non-governmental institutions, and those who have received international awards.
This visa provides long-term residency in the UAE, with a validity of up to 10 years.
Business Establishment Residency in the UAE
The UAE promotes entrepreneurship by offering dedicated residency visas for establishing business.
These visas include options for partnering with UAE nationals or establishing a private enterprise. They also permit the hiring of foreign employees and provide streamlined processes for interacting with government entities.
Student Residency in the UAE
This residency is offered to foreign students enrolled in universities and educational institutions in the UAE. The sponsor for the student can be either the university or institution where they are studying or one of the student’s parents who is officially residing in the UAE.
Residency is valid for one year and can be renewed upon proving that the student has continued their studies in subsequent years.
Family Residence Visa
This visa allows family members, such as a spouse and children, to reside in the UAE, provided that the head of the family holds a valid residency permit.
The head of the family can be an employee or a business owner. To sponsor family members, they must have a minimum monthly salary of AED 3,000 and suitable accommodation.
Additionally, family members aged 18 and over are required to undergo a specific medical fitness examination as mandated by the UAE.
How to Obtain a Residence permit in the UAE?
The requirements for obtaining residency in the UAE vary depending on the type of residency, but generally include the following categories:
- University Degree: A relevant academic qualification.
- Investment Capital: Sufficient funds for investment.
- Stable Income: A fixed monthly or annual income at specified levels.
- Buying Property: Acquisition of property in the UAE with a specific financial value.
- Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance.
In Conclusion
Understanding the different types of residence permit in the UAE and their requirements is the first step towards moving to this rapidly advancing nation.
Whether you’re seeking residency for work, investment, or study, we hope this article has served as a useful guide or starting point for your decision-making process.
If you’re interested in exploring real estate opportunities in Dubai and finding the perfect property for living or investment, we are here to assist.
Laryan Property offers a range of services to help you acquire your next property in Dubai with ease and to support you through the legal procedures for securing the right residency to meet your needs and budget.
Contact us now for a free, immediate consultation!
Edited by: Laryan Property©
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