A new model of visa system has been approved by the government of the United Arab Emirates that, in some cases, could do away with the need for sponsorship.
The massive overhaul was announced on 18 April 2022 through a series of tweets from the UAE Government Media Office, following approval from the country’s cabinet.
It marks the biggest change in the relevant law for some time, however, it follows a series of reforms to how non-citizens can live and work in the emirates.
The new Entry and Residence scheme promises greater options and flexibility for those coming to the UAE with one unified platform to apply.
Dependents
Parents can sponsor their male children until the age of 25, up from 18, allowing them to remain in the UAE after school and university, with no age limit for unmarried daughters.
Children of determination are granted a residence permit, regardless of their age.
Green Residence holders are allowed to issue residence permits for their first-degree relatives. Announced in September 2021, the Green visa distinguishes between residency visa and work permits and is available to investors, entrepreneurs, highly-skilled individuals, top students, and graduates.
The amendments also allow Golden Visa holders to sponsor family members, including spouses and children, regardless of their age.
Furthermore, they can sponsor an unlimited number of domestic workers like maids, nannies and drivers.
Golden visa expanded
The Golden residency programme – which offers long-term stays and self-sponsorship to worthy individuals, high achieving students, investors and other specific categories – has been broadened with more benefits, including a 10-year renewable residence.
In 2019, the UAE implemented a new system for long-term residence visas. The new golden visa system enables foreigners to live, work and study in the UAE without the need of a national sponsor and with 100 per cent ownership of their business on the UAE’s mainland. These visas will be issued for 5 or 10 years and will be renewed automatically.
Among those that can apply are university students within and outside the country having a distinction GPA of at least 3.75 upon graduation and a golden visa has already been awarded to American University in Dubai interior design graduate.
Tourists
People who enter as visitors will be able to stay for 60 days, rather than 30 days at present, under a new UAE five-year multi-entry tourist visa has been introduced. It does not require a sponsor.
The visa may be extended, provided that the entire period of stay does not exceed 180 days in one year. Applicants must meet certain criteria, including having a minimum bank balance, but as mentioned you no longer require a host as part of the application.
