Cabinet Decision No. (95) Of 2024 Regarding the Regulation of Blue Visa

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is committed to achieving environmental sustainability through a range of initiatives, including the “Blue Residency” program, which aims to attract individuals and investors dedicated to environmental preservation. This initiative reflects the UAE’s forward-looking vision, wherein economic development is integrated with the protection of natural resources, thereby contributing to the creation of a more sustainable and environmentally conscious society.

The “Blue Residency” is a type of long-term residence visa valid for 10 years, granted to individuals who have made exceptional contributions and efforts in the fields of environmental protection—whether marine, terrestrial, or atmospheric—sustainability and its modern technologies, circular economy, or other related areas, regardless of whether they are from within or outside the United Arab Emirates.

Blue Residency Categories:

• Influencers and distinguished people with exceptional efforts in the fields of environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean energy.

• Scientists and researchers in the fields of environment, climate change, sustainability, and renewable energy.

• Investors and entrepreneurs in the fields of environment, climate change, sustainability, and renewable energy.

• Inventors and innovators in the fields of environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean energy.

• Elite specialists and professionals working in governmental and private environmental institutions in the country.

Benefits of holders of the Blue Residence permits:

Residence permits may be issued for the family members of the foreigner including the spouse, children, and parents for a duration of 10 years (renewable).

• Eligible individuals for the blue residence permit from outside the country are granted a six-month multiple-entry visa to complete their procedures, which is renewable.

• In the event of the death of the sponsor holding the blue residence permit, family members may remain in the country until the expiration of the residence period.

• Recruitment of Domestic Service Workers.

As for those who previously held the golden residence permit, they may apply to convert their residency to the blue residence permit after fulfilling the fees and requirements.

Conditions for Retaining the Residence Permit :

• The ability to support oneself and family members without the need for government assistance.

• To maintain valid health insurance for oneself and one’s family for the entire duration of the residence permit.

Blue Residence permits duration:

The Authority may after the approval of the federal and local authorities, issue a permit regarding long-term self-residence for a period of ten years, renewable without the need for a guarantor within the country

How to get a permit for Blue Residence :

Through direct-self application, or recommendation, or nomination from the Ministry of climate change and environment, or through the relevant local government entities concerned with environmental affairs, climate change, sustainability, and renewable energy.

To view the official decision >> Blue Residence Visa.pdf