The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has launched its "advanced services system". The services include issuance of the new generation of Emirati passports and trial of the updated visa and entry permit scheme.
Reforms to the visa system include an expanded Golden Visa scheme, a five-year Green residency program, and new entry permits, such as one for job seekers. The new system also offers additional benefits to sponsor family members.
A trial of the new system is underway now, and implementation will begin on October 3.
The UAE has implemented one of the largest immigration reforms in its history with these new visas. It was earlier announced that they would go into effect on September 5.
In April of this year, the UAE Cabinet approved the executive regulations of the Federal Decree-Law. Key provisions include:
- The Golden Visa scheme has been substantially amended to simplify eligibility criteria and expand beneficiary categories. This long-term 10-year residence is granted to investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists and professionals, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers and frontline heroes.
A Golden residence holder may sponsor his/her spouse and children regardless of their age under the amendments. They can also sponsor any number of support services (domestic) labourers. Furthermore, their visa will remain valid irrespective of how much time they spend outside the UAE.
- Green Visa: A new 5-year residence track has been introduced to attract talents, skilled professionals, freelancers, investors and entrepreneurs. They are given longer flexible grace periods that reach up to six months to stay in the country after the permit is cancelled or expired. They can get residence permits easily for family members, including spouses, children and first-degree relatives.
Benefits for family members
Family members are provided with more benefits under the new system. The age of children who may be sponsored has been raised to 25 years (previously 18 years), with no age limit for unmarried daughters. Children of determination are granted a residence permit, regardless of their age.
Visas for new entry
There are several types of visas available to UAE visitors under the new system, including visas for job exploration, business entry, and visiting friends and family.