Are you thinking of working independently in the UAE? A green visa for self-employed professionals could be your gateway. Unlike a standard work visa that limits you to a single employer, a green visa allows you to shape your own professional path. You can freelance, provide consulting services or operate as an independent business owner with complete flexibility.

The UAE introduced the green visa to attract skilled global talent and support entrepreneurship. This visa is perfect for professionals who want long-term security without relying on company sponsorship. It is valid for five years, offers easy renewal options and allows for easy family sponsorship. Because of these benefits, many professionals now see it as one of the most attractive residency options in the UAE.

In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about the UAE green visa for self-employed individuals. You will learn about the eligibility criteria, required documents, visa costs, key benefits and the full application process, so you can decide if this option suits your career goals.

What Is a Green Visa in the UAE?

The UAE Green Visa is a residency visa that allows individuals to self-sponsor their stay for up to five years. Unlike standard visa categories, the Green Visa eliminates the need to seek support from a UAE employer or local sponsor. This visa primarily supports freelancers, self-employed professionals and skilled workers by giving them greater freedom and flexibility. It allows holders to live and work in the UAE on their own terms, without relying on outside sponsorship, making it a long-term option for foreign talent looking to build a stable future in the UAE.

Who Can Apply?

1. Skilled professionals

• Must have an active employment contract in the UAE.
• Listed under Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE) Skill Categories 1 to 3.
• Minimum Monthly Income Requirement: AED 15,000.

2. Freelancers and independent professionals

• Must have a valid freelance or self-employment license from MOHRE.
• Show proof of an annual income of at least AED 360,000 or demonstrate strong financial stability over the last two years.

3. Investors and business partners

• Must present evidence of investment in a UAE-based company (mainland or free zone).
• Must obtain approval from relevant local government authorities.

Benefits of UAE Green Visa

The UAE Green Visa offers many benefits, and its growing popularity clearly reflects its value. Professionals and families appreciate this visa for its flexibility and long-term security. Below are some of the key benefits that make it so attractive.

Long-term residency

One of the biggest benefits of the UAE Green Visa is that it offers long-term residency. This visa allows you to live and work in the UAE for up to five years. This extended period gives you ample time to develop professionally while experiencing the country’s culture and lifestyle.

With this stability, you can focus on building a strong career foundation and make long-term plans that can ultimately lead to a permanent future in the UAE.

Family Sponsorship

The UAE Green Visa strongly supports family sponsorship, making it ideal for long-term residents. It increases the age limit for sponsoring sons up to 25 years and completely removes the age restriction for unmarried daughters.

Visa holders can also sponsor adopted children without any age limit. Additionally, the visa allows sponsorship of first-degree relatives for the same residency period as the main visa holder, providing greater security and unity for families.

Flexible grace period

The UAE Green Visa also offers a generous grace period, which adds to its flexibility. After your visa expires, you get a 180-day grace period, so you don’t have to rush or worry about it right away.

During this time, you can renew your visa or change your residency status, depending on your needs. If you decide not to continue, you can easily plan your exit without facing penalties or legal issues.

Step-by-Step Application Process (2025)

If you are planning to start your UAE Green Visa application in 2025, knowing the complete step-by-step process will help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Below is a clear breakdown of each stage that you should follow:

1. Initial Eligibility Check and Document Preparation

Before starting the application, make sure you are eligible under your chosen category, such as Investor, Entrepreneur, Skilled Professional or Freelancer. Prepare all required documents in advance, which may include:

• A valid passport or travel document with a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of application
• Proof of income or investment (bank statement, tax filing, business agreement, etc.)
• Trade or commercial license (for investors or business owners)
• Academic and professional certificates (for skilled workers)
• Recent passport-sized photographs

2. Create an account and apply through the official UAE platform

You must submit your application through the official UAE government portals, which include:

• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP)
• GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) for Dubai-based applicants

3. Upload all mandatory documents

After registration, upload the required documents, such as:

• Your passport Copy
• Personal photograph with white background
• Business or investment related documents (trade license, ownership details)
• Proof of income (for freelancers or skilled professionals)
• Educational qualifications (certified where necessary)

4. Pay visa application and processing fees

Complete the payment for visa processing through the online system. The cost usually depends on the visa category and emirate, but it is usually between AED 1,000 and AED 2,000. Medical tests and insurance fees are charged separately.

5. Complete medical examination and arrange health insurance

Attend a mandatory medical fitness test at a UAE-approved medical center.

Arrange valid UAE health insurance that complies with residency regulations. This requirement applies to all residents and is mandatory under UAE law.

6. Entry or Residence Permit Approval Stage and Issuance

After submitting all documents and completing the formalities, the UAE authorities will review your application. After approval:

• If you applied from outside the UAE, you will receive an entry permit.
• If you applied in the UAE, your current visa status will be changed to a Green Residence Permit.

In most cases, applications submitted through the official UAE portal are processed within 48 hours, provided that all information and documents are complete and accurate.

Detailed Cost Analysis (2025)

Before you submit your UAE Green Visa application, you should clearly understand the costs involved. While this visa offers long-term benefits and greater freedom, you should be prepared for some mandatory fees.

Here is a clear breakdown of the common fees associated with the application and approval process in 2025:

Application and Issuance Fees (Variable)

These costs include standard government fees applied during the visa process:

• Green Visa Application Fee: AED 2,000 – AED 2,500
• Residence Permit Fee (5-year period): AED 500 – AED 1,000
• Emirates ID Price (valid for 5 years): AED 1,000 – AED 1,500
• Smart Services and Administration Fee: AED 100 – AED 200

Processing Time for UAE Green Visa

The UAE Green Visa processing time is usually 1 to 3 months, depending on the applicant’s personal profile and how accurately they submit the required documents. In many situations, officials complete the process within a month, allowing eligible applicants to secure their visa without long delays. However, additional background checks or detailed document verification can increase the overall processing time.

Read More: How To Get Management Consultancy License In Dubai, UAE

Conclusion

In short, the UAE Green Visa offers a flexible and independent residency option for skilled professionals, freelancers and entrepreneurs. With long-term recognition and self-sponsorship benefits, DBS Business Setup Group helps individuals choose the right path to build a career or business in the UAE. This visa removes sponsorship limitations and supports global talent in a rapidly changing environment.