What is the UAE Green Visa and who is eligible for it?

The UAE Green Visa is a long-term residence permit that lets eligible people live in the country without a traditional employer or company sponsor — you sponsor yourself. It was introduced as part of the federal entry-and-residence reforms and is administered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and, in Dubai, the GDRFA. Broad eligibility categories include skilled employees meeting a defined qualification and salary threshold, freelancers and self-employed professionals holding the relevant permit, and certain investors and partners. Each category has its own documentary requirements (qualifications, a freelance/self-employment permit, or proof of investment). Unlike a standard work visa, the Green Visa is not tied to one employer, so changing jobs or clients does not automatically cancel it. Exact thresholds and fees are set by the authorities and change periodically, so confirm the current figures on the official channel before applying. You can check the latest category rules on the UAE Government portal (u.ae) or GDRFA, and if you need help interpreting your eligibility you can compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI.