São Paulo – The United Arab Emirates cabinet announced on Monday (18) a series of new visas that benefit skilled workers, tourists, investors and long-term residents, according to state news agency WAM. The cabinet also announced eligibility criteria for Green Residence which was first announced in September last year and also expanded the scope of benefits and beneficiaries of the existing Golden Visa.
The new system for entry and residence visas aims at attracting and retaining global talents and skilled workers from all over the world, boosting the competitiveness and flexibility of the job market and fostering a high sense of stability among UAE residents and families.
The executive regulations of the Federal Decree-Law on Entry and Residence of Foreigners will come into force after ninety days from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.
New types of residence
The key amendments include introducing a new 5-year residence visa to attract skilled professionals, freelancers, investors and entrepreneurs. More benefits are offered to facilitate family members residence, and longer flexible grace periods of up to six months to stay in the country after the cancellation or expiry of the residence permit are now offered.
The Green Residence, for example, allows for professionals like freelancers to have access to five years of residence in the Arab country. The Golden Residence has gained new benefits for long-term residence applicants. One of the new features is that now the holder can sponsor their family members, including spouse and children regardless of their age.
The Golden Visa is granted to investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, and frontline workers. There are other benefits for family members that allow them to stay in the UAE in the event of the death of the original holder of the Golden Residence until the end of their permit duration.
Translated by Guilherme Miranda
