Live and work in Dubai : residency visa overview (Golden, Green, Virtual Work, Retirement, Blue)

Dubai offers a range of residency visas for longterm settlement: the Golden Visa (10 years), the Green Visa (5 years), the Virtual Work Visa (1 year), the Retirement Visa (55+), and the newly announced Blue Visa (10 years) for individuals engaged in environmental protection. This briefing summarises objectives and headline criteria to help shape your relocation plan.

Golden Visa (10 years)

For investors (financial/real estate), entrepreneurs, specialised talents (doctors, scientists, certain professionals), award winners and humanitarian profiles. Key benefits: family sponsorship, no local sponsor, enhanced flexibility. File via GDRFA/ICP with evidence of capital (e.g., property ≥ AED 2m), recommendations or degrees depending on the route.

Green Visa (5 years)

Residency for skilled professionals, freelancers and the self employed. Requires degree level qualifications (or equivalent) and income thresholds set by current policy. Designed to support independent activity and technical profiles.

Virtual Work Visa (1 year)

Oneyear programme for people working remotely for a nonUAE employer. Live in Dubai while remaining employed by an overseas entity (you may not work for UAE companies). Requirements: employment contract valid for ≥ one year, monthly income ≥ USD 3,500, proof of remote work.

Retirement Visa (55+)

For those 55 and over, contingent on income/savings or property. Indicative routes include: yearly income ≥ ~USD 49,000; three year fixed deposit ≥ ~USD 275,000; unmortgaged property ≥ ~USD 275,000; or a savings/property combination meeting the thresholds.

Blue Visa (10 years)

A 10year visa for individuals with exceptional contributions to environmental protection (in the UAE or globally). Potentially eligible: members of relevant NGOs/associations/companies, global award winners, distinguished researchers and activists. Detailed rules (evidence, process) are being finalised at federal level.

Choosing your route : approach and documentation

• Assess your profile (activity, qualifications/income, objectives—invest, found a business, work remotely, retire).
• Preassemble documents (licences, attested degrees, contracts, bank statements, title deeds, endorsements).
• Compare durations and benefits (family sponsorship, work permissions, mobility).
• Check GDRFA/ICP portals for submission links and updated thresholds.

Filing journey

Submit to the competent authorities (ICP, GDRFA). Evidence must precisely substantiate eligibility (sector, income, qualifications, achievements). Translations and legalisations (MOFA, embassies) are often required. Consistency across documents (no gaps, matching details) speeds up processing.

Dubai’s visa landscape offers tailored options for investors, professionals, independents, remote workers, retirees and environmental leaders. By aligning your plan to the right route (Golden/Green/Virtual/Retirement/Blue) and compiling an evidence driven file, you can maximise approval prospects and secure a smooth relocation.

Our lawyers, who are experts in immigration law, are available to answer all your questions and provide advice. We offer face-to-face meetings or videoconferencing. You can make an appointment directly online at https://www.agn-avocats.fr/.

AGN AVOCATS – Immigration Law
contact@agn-avocats.fr
09 72 34 24 72