UAE visas are an indispensable gateway to the compelling destination of the UAE, a country that masterfully blends traditional charm with contemporary innovation.
Thankfully, the UAE government has launched several UAE visas designed specifically to enable expats to live in the country even without formal employment or a business to run.
These options offer an enticing blend of flexibility and opportunity, extending beyond the typical employment-based visas most are familiar with.
Here, we will focus on three specific visas—ones designed uniquely to provide long-term residency options for those without a local job or business.
Remote Work Visa
The UAE’s remote work visa, a remarkable initiative in the realm of UAE visas, showcases the government’s pioneering vision. Implemented in direct response to the global shift in work dynamics due to the pandemic, it is an innovative and timely solution.
Additionally, it skillfully thrusts away traditional restrictions tied to geographical locations for work and home. Instead, it steers towards a balanced, boundary-less professional and personal life by making physical location irrelevant.
Requirements for Remote Work Visa
The allure of the Remote Work Visa lies not just in its conception but also in its practicality. However, there are certain obligations that expats must fulfill to make the most of this opportunity.
- Criminal record: Initially, the UAE government requires applicants to have a clean criminal record, endorsing strict safety and regulatory standards.
- Proof of employment: Subsequently, applicants must provide evidence of employment, which could be an employer’s letter, an employment contract, or proof of freelance work.
- Income criteria: Applicants should meet a minimum monthly income of AED12,853 or its equivalent.
- Intended duration of stay: Further, the length of your proposed residence in the UAE is also a factor for successful visa approval.
Read: Quick and easy ways to check your UAE visa status
Real Estate Investor Visa
Another one of the UAE visas to consider is the real estate investor visa. This visa grants expats residency based on their property investments within the country.
The key requirement for this visa is to own a property in the UAE with a value of at least AED1 mn. As a result, this visa strengthens the UAE economy through their strategic investments.
There are two primary options for obtaining residence through this visa: a self-sponsored two-year residence visa or the Golden Visa, valid for ten years.
Two-year residence visa for real estate investors
To qualify for a two-year Property Investor Visa, you or your spouse should own property worth at least AED750,000, either individually or jointly. Applications for the visa can be made through the Dubai Land Department’s Cube Center.
Golden Visa for Real Estate Investors
Meanwhile, a potential candidate for the Golden Visa must own property with a minimum value of AED2 mn. The following are some requirements associated with obtaining a Golden Visa through real estate investment:
- Property value: The requisite investment involves purchasing a home valued at AED2 mn or higher.
- Loan assistance: Investors willing to buy a property with the aid of loans from specific local banks can likewise become eligible for the Golden Visa.
- Off-plan property investment: Investors may opt to invest in one or more off-plan properties from reputable local real estate firms. Meeting a minimum combined value of AED2 mn can secure them a coveted spot in the golden category of UAE visas.
UAE Retirement Visa
Finally, rounding off the extensive UAE visas catalog is the UAE Retirement Visa. Introduced in 2018, the retirement visa was conceived to address the retirement needs of aging expat residents.
Specifically, it was designed for expats who are 55 years old or older. In addition, it facilitates a comfortable UAE lifestyle without occupational engagements or commitments.
Requirements for Retirement Visa
Any possible candidate for the retirement visa has to fulfill several important criteria:
- Age: The applicant must be 55 years old or older at the time of retirement.
- Work experience: The candidate should possess no less than 15 years of experience, be it in or outside the UAE.
- Property ownership: An applicant who owns property or properties with a total value of no less than AED1 mn can qualify for the visa.
- Financial savings: Having savings of no less than AED1 mn is another path towards eligibility. Specifically for Dubai, the visa can also be sought with a monthly income of AED15,000. Otherwise, a monthly income of AED20,000 is needed.
- Bank statement: Visitors must submit their last six-month bank statements as proof of financial stability for a decent UAE lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bring my family to live with me under the Remote Work Visa?
Yes, your family can live with you in the UAE under your Remote Work Visa.
Q: Do I have to live in the property that qualifies me for the Real Estate Investor Visa?
No, there is no requirement to live on the property.
Q: Can I switch my existing visa to a Real Estate Investor Visa if I recently bought a property in the UAE?
Yes, if you have purchased a property worth at least AED1 mn, you can change your existing visa to the Real Estate Investor visa. Necessary procedures and statutory requirements need to be followed for the transition.
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