The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently implemented new visa regulations aimed at attracting tourists, and individuals intending to work or reside in the country. An official document, a visa grants the holder legal admittance into a foreign nation. The UAE’s altered visa rules propose changes in three major areas: Entry Visa, Green Visa, and Golden Visa.
Understanding the Key Changes
The first notable change is the introduction of entry visas that no longer necessitate a local sponsor for visitors. For the first time, entry visas or Tourist Visas will be accessible for single or multiple entries and will remain valid for 60 days, an increase from the previous limit of 30 days.
The Green Visa
The Green Visa is a form of renewable-residence visa that permits foreigners to support themselves for five years, without dependence on a UAE national or employer for visa sponsorship. This supersedes the previous residence visa, which was only legitimate for two years.
The Golden Visa
In contrast, the Golden Visa offers long-lasting renewable residence visas for a period of up to 10 years. Eligible candidates for the Golden Visa cover a broad spectrum, including investors, entrepreneurs, individuals with distinctive skills such as researchers, medical professionals, and those within the scientific and knowledge domains, and noteworthy students and graduates.
Furthermore, skilled professionals who meet a minimum monthly salary prerequisite of AED 30,000 can also acquire long-term residency. Similarly, investors who purchase property worth no less than AED two million are eligible for the visa.
The revised visa structure aims to enhance living standards and create a pleasing environment for residing, working, and investing in the UAE.
Implications for the Indian Community
The new visa rules are particularly significant for Indians, who form a substantial part of the UAE population. Approximately 3.5 million Indians constitute about 30% of the country’s population. The reformation of the entry and residence system is anticipated to boost the UAE’s image as an ideal destination for employment and investment.
With the revised visa system, it is expected that thousands of gifted professionals will find job opportunities in the UAE. Moreover, tourists can look forward to a trouble-free holiday thanks to the simplified visa process. As such, the new visa regulations by the UAE signal a promising future for the Indian expatriate community residing in or planning to move to the country.