Better terms for expats have been introduced
In 2019, a new system forĀ long-term residence visasĀ for foreign investors and professionals was put in place. It allows expats to live, work and study in the country without needing a national sponsor. They can also enjoy 100% ownership of their business. These visas will be issued for 5 or 10 years and will be renewed automatically.
Eligibility for a 10-year visa:
- Investors in public investments of at least AED 10 million (US$2.72 million)
- Persons with specialized talents, such as doctors, scientists, specialists, inventors, as well as creative individuals in the field of culture and art
Eligibility for a 5-year visa:
- Investors in a property in the UAE of a gross value of not less than AED 5 million (US$1.36 million). The amount invested in real estate must not be on loan basis and the property must be retained for at least 3 years.
- Entrepreneurs with an existing project with a minimum capital of AED 500,000 (US$136,000)
- Outstanding students