List of All Visa Options to Migrate to the UAE for Work and Stay (2025)
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a variety of visa options for individuals looking to migrate, work, and live in the country. These visas cater to professionals, investors, students, and families, making the UAE an attractive destination for diverse global talent.
Here’s a comprehensive list of visa options available in the UAE:
1. Employment Visa (Work Visa)
- Purpose: For individuals who have secured a job offer in the UAE.
- Key Features:
- Issued by the employer after receiving a work permit from the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
- Typically valid for 2-3 years, renewable.
- Eligibility:
- Job offer and sponsorship by a UAE-based employer.
- Must undergo medical fitness tests and security clearance.
2. Golden Visa
- Purpose: Long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and exceptional talents.
- Key Features:
- 5- or 10-year residency without the need for a local sponsor.
- Categories include investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, scientists, and outstanding students.
- Eligibility:
- Varies by category (e.g., real estate investment, professional achievements).
- High salary or financial stability requirements may apply.
3. Green Visa
- Purpose: For skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors seeking long-term residency.
- Key Features:
- 5-year residency with no need for a sponsor or employer.
- Includes dependents such as spouses and children.
- Eligibility:
- Proof of self-employment or freelance work.
- Relevant qualifications or experience.
4. Freelancer Visa
- Purpose: For self-employed individuals or those working as freelancers in specialized fields.
- Key Features:
- Issued under the Dubai Free Zone Authority or other emirates.
- Allows freelancers to live and work independently in the UAE.
- Eligibility:
- Portfolio of work or proof of expertise in a specific field.
- Freelance work permit application through designated authorities.
5. Investor Visa
- Purpose: For individuals investing in UAE real estate, businesses, or other ventures.
- Key Features:
- 3, 5, or 10-year visas depending on the investment amount.
- Real estate investors must invest at least AED 2 million in property.
- Eligibility:
- Proof of investment and financial stability.
- Ownership of a qualifying business or property.
6. Business Visa
- Purpose: For entrepreneurs and business owners setting up operations in the UAE.
- Key Features:
- Part of the Golden Visa program.
- Encourages innovation and entrepreneurship in the UAE.
- Eligibility:
- Must present a viable business idea or existing business.
- Endorsement by an accredited UAE business incubator.
7. Remote Work Visa
- Purpose: For professionals employed by companies outside the UAE but wanting to live in the UAE while working remotely.
- Key Features:
- 1-year visa, renewable.
- No need for UAE-based employer sponsorship.
- Eligibility:
- Proof of remote employment, income of at least USD 5,000 per month.
8. Student Visa
- Purpose: For international students studying at UAE universities or educational institutions.
- Key Features:
- Sponsored by the educational institution.
- Valid for the duration of the study program.
- Eligibility:
- Admission to a UAE-based university or institution.
- Financial stability and health insurance.
9. Family Visa
- Purpose: For family members of UAE residents or citizens.
- Key Features:
- Allows residents to sponsor their spouse, children, and, in some cases, parents.
- Valid for up to 3 years, renewable.
- Eligibility:
- Proof of relationship and financial ability to support dependents.
10. Retirement Visa
- Purpose: For retirees aged 55 and older who want to live in the UAE.
- Key Features:
- 5-year visa, renewable.
- Allows retirees to stay in the UAE while enjoying its lifestyle and services.
- Eligibility:
- Minimum income of AED 15,000 per month or savings of AED 1 million.
- Alternatively, own a property worth AED 2 million.
11. Mission Visa
- Purpose: For short-term employment or business projects in the UAE.
- Key Features:
- Valid for 3-6 months.
- Used for specific missions, internships, or temporary work assignments.
- Eligibility:
- Employer sponsorship and project details required.
12. UAE Free Zone Visa
- Purpose: For professionals or entrepreneurs working in UAE’s Free Zones.
- Key Features:
- Issued by Free Zone Authorities.
- Allows business ownership without needing a local sponsor.
- Eligibility:
- Registration of a business in a Free Zone.
- Compliance with Free Zone-specific regulations.
13. Transit Visa
- Purpose: For travelers transiting through the UAE for a short period.
- Key Features:
- 48-hour or 96-hour visa options.
- Non-renewable.
- Eligibility:
- Valid onward ticket and short layover period.
14. Medical Treatment Visa
- Purpose: For individuals traveling to the UAE for medical treatment.
- Key Features:
- Short-term visa with hospital sponsorship.
- Renewable based on medical needs.
- Eligibility:
- Proof of treatment plan and financial support.
15. Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa
- Purpose: For frequent travelers to the UAE for leisure or business.
- Key Features:
- Valid for 5 years, allowing multiple entries.
- Stay up to 90 days per visit, extendable to 180 days annually.
- Eligibility:
- Proof of financial stability and health insurance.
16. Humanitarian Visa
- Purpose: For individuals in unique circumstances, such as stranded expatriates or those needing urgent assistance.
- Key Features:
- Short-term visa provided on humanitarian grounds.
- Eligibility:
- Case-by-case basis, depending on individual needs.
Final Notes
The UAE’s visa system is designed to accommodate various needs, from professionals and investors to families and retirees. To choose the right visa, assess your specific circumstances, including work opportunities, financial stability, and long-term goals.
For official guidelines and applications, visit the UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or GDRFA Dubai portals.
