If you’ve been looking into moving to the UAE and wondering how much you need to invest for a Green Visa—you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we get.
The UAE Green Visa is a 5-year residency option designed for investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, and freelancers. What makes it different from a regular work visa? For starters, you don’t need to be tied to an employer. You can sponsor yourself—giving you more control, more flexibility, and more freedom to live and work on your own terms.
But here’s where it gets tricky…
The requirements aren’t one-size-fits-all. The amount you need to invest—or earn—depends entirely on your category. And while the system is more open than ever, it’s still packed with technical details, shifting regulations, and paperwork that needs to be just right.
That’s why many applicants choose to work with us at Golden Visa UAE. We don’t just walk you through the application—we help you understand where you stand, what you qualify for, and how to approach the process in a way that sets you up for approval.
In this guide, we’ll break down the 2025 Green Visa investment requirements across all categories—whether you’re an investor, a business partner, a skilled employee, or a freelancer. And we’ll answer the big question: How much do you really need to invest—or earn—to get the Green Visa?
Let’s get into it.
Green Visa for Investors and Business Partners
If you’re investing in a UAE-based business or joining as a partner, this visa category might be for you.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Minimum Investment: AED 1 million in a UAE business
- Business Ownership: Valid commercial or industrial license (as a sole proprietor or partner)
- Proof of Investment: Provide documentation to verify capital; total investment across multiple licenses can be considered
- Local Authority Approval: Must be approved by relevant government departments
This category replaces the previous 2-year investor visa with a more stable 5-year option. It’s ideal for anyone planning serious, long-term business activity in the UAE.
How We Help: At Golden Visa UAE, we assist investors with documentation, liaise with free zone/mainland authorities, and simplify ownership structure complexities. Not sure if your business qualifies? We’ll review it for you—no strings attached.
Green Visa for Skilled Employees
This route is great for professionals who want to live and work in the UAE without employer sponsorship.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Employment Contract: Must hold a valid UAE employment contract
- Occupational Classification: Your job must fall under MoHRE skill levels 1, 2, or 3
- Education: At least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Minimum Salary: AED 15,000 per month
This is a strong option for those in high-demand fields—think tech, finance, engineering, education, or healthcare. For more information, check out this detailed piece on salary requirements for Green Visa in UAE.
Need support? We’ve helped hundreds of professionals secure their Green Visas. From aligning job titles with MoHRE to salary documentation and beyond, Golden Visa UAE makes it all easier.
Green Visa for Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals
The UAE has become a top destination for digital nomads, consultants, and creatives looking to work independently.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Freelance Permit: Must have a valid MoHRE-issued freelance permit
- Education: Minimum bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma
- Income Proof: At least AED 360,000 over the last 2 years from freelancing OR proof of financial solvency
This visa is part of the UAE’s wider push to support remote workers and flexible, global careers.
Why Choose Us? Preparing proof of freelance income can get complicated, especially with international clients or irregular pay. Our top-rated visa consultants work closely with regulatory bodies to help you build a solid financial case—one that ticks all the right boxes.
Family Sponsorship and Additional Benefits
Green Visa holders can sponsor their immediate family members:
- Spouse and Children: Sons up to 25 years old and unmarried daughters of any age
- Children of Determination: Sponsored regardless of age
Family visas will be issued with the same validity as the main Green Visa. And if your visa is canceled or expires, you get a 6-month grace period to renew or exit the country without penalties.
Application Process and Fees
Steps:
- Determine Eligibility: Choose the category that matches your background and financials
- Prepare Documents: This may include licenses, contracts, proof of investment or income, education certificates, etc.
- Submit Application: File through ICP or GDRFA, depending on your emirate
Estimated Costs:
- Visa Issuance Fee: AED 200 + 5% VAT
- Local Processing Fee: AED 500 (for in-country applications)
- Other Charges: AED 10 each for Knowledge and Innovation Dirham
Note: Fees can vary slightly depending on location and any additional services you choose.
This is where most applicants run into trouble. A missing paper here or a wrong permit there can delay your approval for weeks.
That’s why we offer end-to-end support. Our team stays updated on GDRFA and ICP policies, so your application stays compliant—right down to the fine print.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I combine investments from different businesses to meet the AED 1 million requirement?
Yes, your total capital across all licensed businesses can count—as long as you provide proper documentation.
Is real estate investment valid for the Green Visa?
No. That would fall under the UAE Golden Visa, which we also specialize in.
How long does the application process take?
On average, 2–3 months. It depends on your category, documents, and government timelines.
Can I renew the Green Visa?
Absolutely. As long as you continue meeting the eligibility requirements, you can renew your visa.
What happens if my visa expires?
You’ll get a 6-month grace period to renew or leave the UAE without facing penalties.
Final Thoughts
The UAE Green Visa is a smart move if you’re after stability, independence, and a real opportunity to build a future—on your own terms.
Whether you’re freelancing, running a business, or working in a specialized role, this visa gives you the freedom to grow and live in the UAE without relying on employer sponsorship.
That said, the process can be… a lot.
Between eligibility rules, category differences, shifting documentation requirements, and submission portals—it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
That’s where we step in.
At Golden Visa UAE, we’ve helped over 2,500 applicants get their Green or Golden Visas approved without the usual headaches. We make the process faster, clearer, and way less stressful.
Thinking of applying? Not sure where to start? Reach out—we’re here to help.
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