UAE Green Visa: Residents who didn’t get Golden residency eye 5-year pass

UAE Green Visa: Residents who didn’t get Golden residency eye 5-year pass

Applicants hope to open bank accounts, get driving licences in the country using self-sponsored residency

Published: Thu 6 Oct 2022, 6:39 AM Last updated: Thu 6 Oct 2022, 6:43 AM

For Qatar resident Dr Naushad, who frequents Dubai for business, the Golden Visa seemed like a great opportunity to set base in the UAE. However, there was only one catch- he wasn't eligible for it. Now, with the announcement of the five-year Green Visa, he is hopeful again.

"I have been living in the Middle East for several years," he said. "I work at a government hospital in Qatar. So I think there is a chance for me to apply for the Green Visa either in the skilled workers' category or in the investor category."

The new Advanced Visa System came into effect on Monday, October 3, with sweeping reforms that saw the introduction of a Green Visa for skilled workers, freelancers and investors. The self-sponsored five-year residency scheme offers multiple benefits. It is intended to attract and retain the best talent in the UAE.

Dr Naushad, who usually takes a visa on arrival when coming to the UAE, says a residence visa could save him a lot of trouble.

"I have a valid US visa,