New UAE Visa Rules 2024: Everything You Need to Know About UAE’s New Entry Visas and Residence Permits

The UAE is continuously evolving as a prime destination for work, investment, entrepreneurship, education, and living. In its latest move, the country has restructured its entry and residence system, introducing new visa rules, including updated entry visas and residence permits, expanded Golden Visa categories, and more.

Key Highlights of the New UAE Visa Rules 2024

1. New Entry Permit for Temporary Work Missions: This permit is available for visitors on temporary work assignments, such as probation testing or project-based missions, sponsored by their employer or UAE resident relatives. It requires a temporary work contract and proof of health and fitness.

2. Residence Permit for Humanitarian Cases: Issued to individuals such as female residents whose UAE national husband passed away, parents or children of UAE citizens with foreign passports, and spouses and children of GCC citizens with foreign passports.

3. Dubai UAE Re-entry Permit: Residency visa holders staying outside the UAE for more than six months can apply for a re-entry permit to avoid residency cancellation.

4. UAE Entry Permit Extension: Entry permits can be extended for up to 90 days, depending on the visit's purpose. Extensions are available through the ICP smart service system.

5. UAE Visit Visa Rules: Travelers on 90-day visit visas can extend their stay by 30 days, with a total extension of up to 90 days. All types of tourist visas can also be extended for 30 days without leaving the country.

6. Unused Visit Visa: Travelers with unused visit visas must cancel them within the specified period to avoid issues with future visa applications.

7. UAE Tourist Visa Rules: The UAE will soon offer health insurance alongside tourist visas, providing coverage for emergencies.

8. Shorter Processing Time for Residence Visas: The new Work Bundle platform streamlines the issuance of work permits and residency visas, reducing processing time from 30 days to just 5 days.

9. Green Residence Expansion: The Green visa now offers 5-year residence options for skilled professionals, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs. It includes longer grace periods for family members after permit cancellation or expiration.

10. Three-Year UAE Work Permit: Work permits have been extended from two years to three, easing the financial burden on employees.

11. 20% Work Permit Quota: Companies must allocate the first 20% of new work permits to individuals from different nationalities, promoting workforce diversity.

12. Blue Residence Visa: A new 10-year visa for individuals significantly contributing to environmental conservation efforts.

Explore Your Opportunities in the UAE

Navigating the complexities of the UAE's new visa regulations can be challenging. At Sanctuary, we provide expert guidance and support to help you understand and comply with these changes. Whether you're looking to invest, work, or live in the UAE, our team is here to assist you with all your visa and residency needs.

Visit Sanctuary for more information and start your journey towards a successful and fulfilling life in the UAE today.