New entry visa rules in the UAE

The UAE cabinet has approved the executive regulations of the Federal Decree-Law on Entry and Residence of Foreigners called the Advanced Visa System

?The UAE has now introduced around ten types of new entry visas, and residence permits, and has expanded the Golden Visa categories. At present, the new entry visas are being trialled and the actual implementation will take place from 3 October 2022. The new system of entry and residence has been introduced to attract and retain global talents and skilled workers from all over the world, boost the competitiveness and flexibility of the job market and foster a high sense of stability among UAE residents and families.

?List of the new entry permits and tourist visa changes that will come into effect:

Entry permit to visit relatives or friends: As per the current amendment, a visitor can apply for this entry permit if he/she is a relative or friend of a UAE citizen or resident. It does not require a sponsor.

Entry permit for study and training: This permit is intended for those attending training and study courses and/or participating in internship programmes. The sponsor can be universities, educational or research institutions licensed in the country or government or private entities. It requires a letter from the entity, clarifying the details of the study, training or internship programme and its duration.

Entry permit for a temporary work mission: This permit is intended for those who have a temporary work assignment like probation testing or a project-based mission. This visa is sponsored by the employer. It requires a temporary work contract or a letter from the employer clarifying the purpose of the visit and proof of health and fitness to work.

Visit Visa: The new visa, which will roll out from September 2022 for visiting the UAE, will allow a stay of 60 days as against 30 days earlier.

Multi-entry Tourist Visa: A five-year multi-entry tourist visa is introduced. This much-awaited visa will allow tourists to enter the UAE multiple times on self-sponsorship and explore the UAE entirely. The requirements are that the applicant should have a bank balance of $4,000 (or equivalent amount in other currency) during the 6 months before the visa application. People can stay for 90 consecutive days in the UAE and the only condition is that the stay should not exceed 180 consecutive days in a year.

Job exploration entry visa: This visa does not require a sponsor or a host. It is granted to those classified in the first or second or third skill level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and are fresh graduates of the best 500 universities in the world. They should also hold a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent.

Business entry visa: This entry permit, which doesn’t require a sponsor or host, is aimed at encouraging investors and entrepreneurs to explore business and investment opportunities in the UAE