UAE opens 10-year Blue Visa: Who can apply and how?
A step-by-step guide to application process, fees, and requirements
DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched its much-anticipated 10-year Blue Residency Visa to attract global talent in the fields of environmental protection and sustainability.
First introduced in May 2024, this initiative is aimed at individuals who have made notable contributions to environmental causes, both within the UAE and globally.
It is designed to enhance the nation’s sustainable development and bolster its environmental initiatives, supporting the government’s broader climate change and sustainability agenda.
What is UAE Blue Visa?
The UAE Blue Residency Visa is a long-term residency program introduced to recognise and attract exceptional professionals in the environmental sector. It is designed for experts in sustainability, climate change, energy, and environmental protection, providing an opportunity for them to continue their work in the UAE, a country committed to sustainable practices.
Eligible candidates include environmental scientists, researchers, inventors, entrepreneurs, and specialists who hold distinguished roles in international organisations or have earned global environmental awards.
Who is eligible?
To qualify for the UAE Blue Residency Visa, applicants must be able to demonstrate exceptional contributions to environmental protection or sustainability. This includes:
- Active members of international organisations that focus on environmental and sustainability issues.
- Recipients of prestigious environmental awards on a national or global scale.
- Experts holding advanced degrees (Master’s or Doctorate) in fields related to environmental science, energy, or climate change.
- Researchers or specialists who have made groundbreaking contributions to sustainability and environmental protection.
Additionally, applicants can also include investors or financial supporters of environmental initiatives. The government has outlined that it welcomes a diverse range of individuals, from activists and researchers to entrepreneurs and financiers, who have a proven track record in these fields.
How to apply for Blue Visa
Applying for the Blue Visa is a structured process managed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). The process begins with a nomination request, which serves as a prerequisite for submitting a full application.
To apply, the following steps must be followed:
- Nomination Request: Applicants must first seek nomination from a relevant authority in the UAE, such as an organisation or government body. The nomination process costs Dh350 and serves as preliminary approval.
- Visa Application: Once nominated, applicants can proceed with their visa application. This includes submitting proof of their environmental contributions, academic credentials, and other personal documentation. The ICP platform provides an online application process, where all required details must be entered, including passport information, contact details, and employment history.
- Additional Documentation: Applicants will need to provide supporting evidence of their work, such as proof of membership in relevant associations, publications, awards, or any other achievements related to sustainability and environmental conservation.
For those outside the UAE, a six-month multiple-entry visa is required to complete the Blue Residency application process, which costs Dh1,250.
Fees and costs
The application process for the Blue Residency visa includes various fees:
- Nomination Request: Dh350
- Multiple-entry visa for those outside the UAE: Dh1,250
These fees must be paid through the ICP’s online portal or at a Customer Happiness Centre.
A new era of sustainability in UAE
This move aligns with the UAE’s broader commitment to sustainability, especially as the country continues to position itself as a global leader in environmental conservation. The Blue Residency Visa is part of the nation’s sustainability drive for 2024, with significant emphasis placed on encouraging environmental stewardship and green innovation.
The UAE’s long-term visa programs, including the Blue Visa, are strategic initiatives designed to attract top talent from across the world. By providing a 10-year residency to key environmental figures, the UAE hopes to cultivate a community of experts who can contribute to both the nation’s green initiatives and the global sustainability movement.
The visa is available to individuals whose expertise will directly support the UAE’s sustainable future, boosting the nation's leadership in green technologies and climate change mitigation.