The UAE’s Green Visa continues to gain attention among skilled professionals, freelancers, and business partners looking for long-term residency without being tied to an employer. But one of the most common questions we get is, what salary is needed to qualify? So if you are confused about just that, this is for you.
In this article, we’ll break down the exact salary requirements based on category, explain why they matter, and outline what you need to apply with confidence.
What is the UAE Green Visa?
The Green Visa is a five-year residency permit launched to attract skilled talent and boost the UAE’s knowledge-based economy. Unlike traditional work visas that require employer sponsorship, the Green Visa gives individuals the freedom to sponsor themselves and their families.
It’s designed for three main groups:
- Skilled employees
- Freelancers and self-employed professionals
- Investors or business partners
Let’s take a closer look at how income affects your eligibility.
Salary Requirement for Green Visa in UAE
The salary requirement depends on which category you apply under. Here’s what the latest government guidelines say:
1. Skilled Employees
- Minimum Salary: AED 15,000 per month (around USD 4,100)
- Additional Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Valid employment contract in a skilled role (MOHRE skill level 1, 2, or 3)
2. Freelancers/Self-Employed Individuals
- Minimum Income: AED 360,000 over the past two years
- OR show proof of financial solvency if newly self-employed
- Additional Requirements:
- Freelance permit from MOHRE
- Academic qualifications or specialized expertise
3. Investors or Business Partners
- No fixed salary, but:
- Proof of investment or business partnership is required
- Approval from local authorities and proof of income/stake
Note: Regulations can change. Always refer to official government portals or speak with a licensed expert, such as GoldenvisaUAE, for up-to-date advice.
Why Income Level Matters
The salary threshold ensures applicants are financially stable and capable of supporting themselves and their families while living in the UAE. It also aligns with the government’s broader goal of attracting highly qualified professionals who can positively contribute to the economy.
For skilled individuals, it means independence from employer limitations. For the UAE, it’s a way to retain top talent and encourage innovation.
Benefits of the UAE Green Visa
The Green Visa comes with a number of advantages that make it a compelling choice for professionals:
1. Long-Term Validity
Five years of residency—no need to renew every two years like standard work permits.
2. Self-Sponsorship
No need for a company or individual to sponsor your visa.
3. Family Sponsorship
You can sponsor your:
- Spouse
- Children (up to age 25 for sons; no age limit for unmarried daughters)
- Children with disabilities, regardless of age
4. Grace Period
A generous 6-month window to stay in the UAE after visa cancellation or expiry.
5. Banking and Business Access
Green Visa holders can:
- Open bank accounts
- Apply for credit and loans
- Start or partner in a UAE business more easily
Green Visa vs. Golden Visa: What’s the Difference?
The Golden Visa is a 10-year permit aimed at high-net-worth individuals, investors, scientists, doctors, and top-performing students. The Green Visa, by contrast, is tailored to skilled professionals and freelancers with sustainable income who may not meet the Golden Visa’s higher investment or salary benchmarks.
Both are long-term options—but the Green Visa is often more accessible to mid-level earners. If you are thinking what the salary requirements are for a UAE Golden Visa, here is a quick read to help you through.
Common Jobs That Qualify for the Green Visa
If your salary is AED 15,000 or more and your job falls under one of the below skill categories, you could be eligible:
- Engineers (civil, mechanical, software, etc.)
- IT specialists (cybersecurity, AI, cloud computing)
- Marketing, sales, and business development professionals
- Financial roles (accountants, auditors, analysts)
- Legal advisors
- Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, technicians)
- University lecturers and educators
Documents Required to Apply for the Green Visa
To prepare your application, you’ll typically need:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Passport-size photo
- Educational certificates (attested)
- Employment contract or freelance license
- Salary certificate or bank statements
- Tax returns (for freelancers/self-employed)
- Valid health insurance
Tip: Make sure foreign documents are translated into Arabic and attested where applicable.
How GoldenvisaUAE Can Help
We’ve helped over 2,500 clients successfully secure their UAE residency—and we can do the same for you.
Whether you’re a freelancer, a skilled employee, or a partner in a start-up, GoldenvisaUAE can guide you through:
- Eligibility checks
- Documentation and attestation
- Application submission via government portals
- Follow-ups and faster approval
We take care of the paperwork so you can focus on your next chapter in the UAE.
Final Thoughts
The Green Visa is one of the most practical and empowering residency options the UAE offers today. If you meet the salary criteria and want more control over your professional life—without the dependency of employer sponsorship—it’s a path worth exploring.
Ready to find out if you qualify? Reach out to GoldenvisaUAE for a free consultation, and let’s walk you through your options with clarity and confidence.
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