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Moving to United Arab Emirates

5 visa pathways3 routes to PRFrom $300
Visa data verified against official government sources on Jul 10, 2026

United Arab Emirates offers 5 visa pathways in 2026, including 3 routes to permanent residence. Government fees start at $300, and the fastest options are processed in as little as 1 month.

The UAE is a federation of seven emirates with a fast-growing, diversified economy and no personal income tax. It draws expatriates with strong job prospects, modern infrastructure, and a large international community. Long-term residence runs through renewable visas such as the Golden and Green visas rather than a conventional permanent residence system.

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  • ✦No personal income tax on salaries.
  • ✦Golden and Green visas grant 5 to 10 year renewable residence.
  • ✦Large English-speaking, multicultural workforce.
  • ✦Major business hub linking Europe, Asia, and Africa.

What skilled worker visas does United Arab Emirates offer?(3)

Standard Work Visa (Employer-Sponsored)

Work Residence Visa

Employer-sponsored residence visa for private and public sector employees. The employer applies for the permit, and it is valid for two years and renewable.

1–2 months$300 fee

Golden Visa

Golden Residence

Long-term, self-sponsored residence granted to investors (about USD 540,000 in capital or property) and to exceptional talent such as scientists, doctors, and PhD holders, who face no investment requirement. Talent and top-tier categories are valid for 10 years and renewable.

1–3 months$1,000 fee

Green Visa (Skilled Worker)

Green Residence

Self-sponsored, five-year renewable residence for skilled employees. Requires a bachelor's degree, a valid MoHRE employment contract in a level 1 to 3 occupation, and a monthly salary of at least AED 15,000 (about USD 4,050).

1–2 months$700 fee

What entrepreneur visas does United Arab Emirates offer?(1)

Green Visa (Freelancer / Self-Employed)

Green Residence

The freelancer and self-employed track of the Green Visa. Grants a five-year, self-sponsored renewable residence to independent professionals who work without a UAE employer, based on a freelance or self-employment permit.

1–2 months$750 fee

What digital nomad visas does United Arab Emirates offer?(1)

Virtual Work Residence Visa

Remote Work Residence

One-year, self-sponsored residence letting foreigners live in the UAE while working remotely for a company based outside the country. Requires proof of employment and a salary certificate of at least USD 3,500 per month.

1–2 months$300 fee

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