UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – New Ten-Year Residence Visa Announced
The government of the United Arab Emirates announced on 20 May 2018 that investors and professionals will be granted ten-year residence visas. Currently, residence visas are valid for up to three years.
Who does this apply to?
The new visa system, planned to be operational by the end of 2018, will grant ten-year residence visas to specialists, such as scientists, doctors and engineers as well as to entrepreneurs and investors, and their families.
Five-year visas will be granted to international students, while highly achieving students may qualify for ten-year visas. The authorities will also extend the validity of dependent visas held by students who are sponsored by their parents, to encourage them to remain in the UAE after graduation.
Employers who may benefit from the new ten-year visas are advised to contact an immigration specialist for the latest information.