In one of the biggest overhauls of the visa system, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday introduced a new entry and residence scheme offering “10 types of entry visas with simplified requirements and more benefits”.
According to an official statement, the new visas require no host or sponsor and offer more flexibility including multiple entries and 60 days of validity.
Now, a Golden Residence holder in the gulf state can sponsor his or her family members including spouse and children regardless of their age as well as can also sponsor support domestic workers without limiting their number.
According to the new system there is now no restriction related to the maximum duration of stay outside the UAE in order to keep the Golden Residence valid.
“People entering the country as visitors will be able to stay for 60 days, rather than 30 days at present.”
The report stated that parents can sponsor their male children until the age of 25, up from 18 previously, allowing them to remain in the country after school and university. This was first set out in September 2021.
It said that skilled professionals on salaries of Dh30,000 ($8,100) per month or more will find it easier to gain a Golden Visa, adding that the system will be expanded further.
The announcement is the formal ratification by the cabinet of a series of recent visa changes – plus new details and decisions – which are known as executive regulations.
“The new system of entry and residence aims at attracting and retaining global talents and skilled workers from all over the world,” a statement from the media office read.
More flexible visas will boost “competitiveness and flexibility of the job market and foster a high sense of stability among UAE residents and families”.
