Latest: Continuous intake. No round-based selection. Applications accepted year-round subject to programme rules and country caps.
At $700, the Green Visa (Skilled Worker) is the 33rd-cheapest of the 62 skilled-work visas Transita tracks, above the $480 median. Its 1.5-month average processing time ranks it 13th-fastest, quicker than 80% of the others.
About the Green Visa (Skilled Worker)
The Green Visa (Skilled Worker) is United Arab Emirates's skilled worker visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent 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).
Applications are processed in 1–2 months on average. Government fees start at $700, and the visa is valid for 5 years.
To qualify, applicants generally need at least a Bachelor's degree. A minimum salary of $48,600 per year is also required.
The Green Visa (Skilled Worker) is suited to work in tech.
Weighing United Arab Emirates against another destination? See how it stacks up on visa speed, cost, and permanent residency:
Eligibility requirements
| Minimum education | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Job offer required | Yes |
| Minimum salary | $48,600 / year |
Official sources: Green Residence · u.ae
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Can lead to PR in approximately undefined years.
Validity period
5 years
How to apply for the Green Visa (Skilled Worker)
- 01
Secure a qualifying job offer
Find an employer in United Arab Emirates willing to sponsor your Green Residence application. The role must meet occupation and salary requirements (minimum $48,600/year).
- 02
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials (minimum Bachelor's degree), employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 03
Submit your Green Residence application
File online through the official United Arab Emirates immigration portal and pay the government fee of $700. Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 04
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 05
Receive decision (1–2 months)
Standard processing takes 1–2 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
What it costs
Attorney fees and document costs not included. Total spend is typically 2–5x the government fee.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main requirements for the Green Visa (Skilled Worker)?
A minimum Bachelor's degree, A qualifying job offer from a United Arab Emirates employer, A salary of at least $48,600/year
How long does the Green Visa (Skilled Worker) take to process?
Processing time for the Green Visa (Skilled Worker) is typically 1–2 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official United Arab Emirates immigration website for current processing times before applying.
How much does the Green Visa (Skilled Worker) cost?
The government application fee for the Green Visa (Skilled Worker) is $700 USD. Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee. Budget accordingly before starting your application.
Does the Green Visa (Skilled Worker) lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The Green Visa (Skilled Worker) grants permanent residence directly on approval.
Do I need a job offer for the Green Visa (Skilled Worker)?
Yes. A confirmed job offer from a qualifying United Arab Emirates employer is required before you can apply for the Green Visa (Skilled Worker). The employer typically needs to demonstrate they could not find a suitable local candidate and must meet specific sponsorship obligations.