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At $700, the Green Visa (Skilled Worker) is the 34th-cheapest of the 64 skilled-work visas Transita tracks, above the $569 median. Its 1.5-month average processing time ranks it 15th-fastest, quicker than 78% of the others.
What is 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 4,084).
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.
The published minimum salary is AED 15,000/mo (≈ $49,013/yr).
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:
What are the 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 AED 15,000/mo (≈ $49,013/yr) or more.
| Minimum education | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Job offer required | Yes |
| Minimum salary | 15,000 AED / month (about $49,013 / year at the exchange rate on 18 September 2026); monthly salary, or the equivalent in another currency. Source read on 18 September 2026Check official salary requirements |
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 do you 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; the minimum salary is AED 15,000/mo (≈ $49,013/yr).
- 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.
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.
Frequently asked questions
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.
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.