26 October 2024

UAE Blue Residency Visa for Environmental Leaders and Innovators

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The United Arab Emirates has issued new regulations for the UAE Blue Residency visa. This long-term residency visa, valid for 10 years, is designed for individuals with significant contributions in the fields of environment, climate change, and sustainability. The new regulations clarify eligibility criteria and extend benefits for permit holders and their families. It is unclear whether the application process is currently open.

The UAE Blue Residency visa, first introduced in May 2024, offers long-term residency without the need for a local sponsor. Once available, foreign nationals will be able to apply for the visa through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security electronic portal, or via nominations by relevant ministries, including the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, and the Office of the United Arab Emirates Special Envoy for Climate Change.

Family members of the UAE Blue Residency visa holders, including spouses, children of any age, and parents, will also be eligible to apply, and their visa will remain valid for the duration of the principal holder’s residency. Additionally, Blue Residency visa holders can sponsor a visa for domestic workers based on the sponsor’s financial capacity.

UAE 10-Year Blue Residency Visa Eligibility Conditions

Key criteria for obtaining the Blue Residency visa depend on the category of the visa applicant and include the following:

Distinguished influencers. Individuals with significant contributions to environmental, climate change, sustainability, or renewable energy sectors, such as holding membership in recognized international organizations, receiving prestigious awards, or providing financial support of at least AED 1,000,000 to environmental initiatives.

Scientists and researchers. Applicants must hold a master’s or doctorate from top-ranked global universities or specialized institutions, with proven research impact.

Investors. Those investing at least AED 2,000,000 in projects or companies that advance environmental, sustainability, or renewable energy goals. The capital must be fully owned and not financed by loans.

Entrepreneurs. Owners or partners in small- to medium-sized enterprises working in sustainability, climate change, or clean energy, with annual revenues of at least AED 1,000,000, or entrepreneurs approved by accredited business incubators in these fields.

Inventors and innovators. Individuals holding patents that contribute to the United Arab Emirates’ environmental and sustainability goals, with approval from the Ministry of Economy or relevant local authorities.

Elite specialists. Senior professionals in public or private environmental institutions in the United Arab Emirates, such as executive directors or specialists with at least a bachelor’s degree, nominated by their employer and recognized for their expertise in climate change, sustainability, or clean energy.

Those currently holding a UAE Golden Visa will be able to apply and convert their status to the Blue Residency by meeting the relevant conditions and paying the required fees. However, the specific differences in benefits between the two categories remain unclear at this time.

To maintain the Blue Residency visa, individuals must demonstrate the ability to support themselves and their families without government assistance and maintain health insurance valid for the United Arab Emirates. The permit can be renewed upon fulfilling these conditions and paying the applicable fees.

Please contact VisaGo if you have any questions; we will help you get through the UAE visa application procedure.

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