Latest news with #BlueVisa
News18
20-05-2025
- Business
- News18
UAE Launches Blue Visa For Environmental Champions With 10-Year Residency
Last Updated: As per the UAE government, those who have contributed to environmental conservation qualify for a 10-year visa. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has now begun the application process for the Blue Visa, a long-term resident visa for people who have made remarkable contributions to environmental protection. It is a multiple-entry permit that allows eligible tourists to stay in the Emirates for up to six months, with the possibility of a 10-year residency beginning this year. First introduced in May 2024, the UAE Blue Residency program aims to attract worldwide environmental leaders to help the UAE achieve sustainable economic and social development. Beginning February 2025, individuals can apply for an environmental visa through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security. If you're looking forward to applying for the Blue Visa, here we've mentioned the details related to the eligibility criteria and key steps. Take a look. Eligibility Criteria Influencers: Those who have made major contributions, put up extraordinary efforts, and had a significant impact on the environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy are eligible to apply for this Visa. Scientists and Researchers: Scientists with significant global achievements and influence in the disciplines of environment, climate change, sustainability and clean and renewable energy, as certified by the UAE Scientists Council. Investors and Entrepreneurs: Young businessmen or investors working in the field of climate change, sustainability, environment and renewable energy can also apply. Steps To Apply: Applicants can start the process by going to the ICP smart services platform or the official website. Next up, select Blue Residency Services. After that, one must decide where to apply for the Blue Visa. It can be filed both within the country and outside of it, including in India. The Blue Visa joins previously established programs such as the Golden Visa, which grants investors, entrepreneurs and specialists ten years of residency, and the Green Visa, which offers competent professionals and business owners five years. As per the UAE government, those who have contributed to environmental conservation qualify for a 10-year visa. These include the land and marine environments, air quality, sustainable technology, and the circular economy.
Indian Express
20-05-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
UAE 10-year Blue Residency Visa 2025: Applications open for expats — know how to apply, eligibility, and more
The United Arab Emirates has officially opened applications for its newly introduced 'Blue Visa' – a multiple-entry permit which enables eligible visitors to stay in the Emirates for an initial period of up to six months, followed by the potential for a 10-year residency thereafter, starting early this year, in 2025. In May of last year, the country introduced a long-term residency programme aimed at environmental advocates, designed to build and promote a culture of sustainability within the Emirates, in line with the country's commitment to environmental conservation. It is offered to individuals who have made remarkable contributions to environmental preservation, sustainability, and clean or renewable energy, according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). The Blue Visa, a special residency permit, will be offered to those demonstrating extraordinary dedication and influence in the environmental and energy sectors. i. Distinguished influencers who have made significant contributions, made exceptional efforts, and had a measurable positive impact on the environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy. ii. Scientists and researchers who have major global achievements and influence in the fields of environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy, as approved by the UAE Scientists Council. iii. Investors and entrepreneurs who operate in the fields of environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy. iv. Working professionals and specialists who are working in government and private environmental agencies within the UAE. The required documents like a valid passport for at least six months, a recent colour photograph, achievements or proof of work in the specified fields, and payment of applicable fees. Applicants can begin the procedure using the ICP smart services platform or official website: and click the section 'Blue Residency Services.' Following that, one has to select the place of application for the Blue Visa. It can be filed for from within the country or from abroad, including India. To apply, people will need: After applying, one will receive a confirmation email.
Hi Dubai
15-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Expands 10-Year Residency to New Talent Categories Across Key Sectors
The UAE continues to solidify its status as a global magnet for top talent by expanding its 10-year Golden Visa to include a broader range of professionals. From educators and nurses to yacht owners and gaming experts, the initiative is opening new doors for individuals across diverse fields to live, work, and thrive in the country without the need for sponsorship. Here are the latest categories added to the Golden Visa programme: 1. Teachers and Educators In 2024, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah introduced long-term residency for outstanding educators. Dubai made the announcement on World Teacher's Day, granting Golden Visas to private school teachers based on their impact on student development and education quality. Ras Al Khaimah soon followed, extending the visa to school leaders and teachers with at least three years of experience in the emirate, an advanced degree, and measurable contributions to school performance. 2. Nurses On International Nurses Day, May 12, Dubai honoured long-serving healthcare professionals by granting Golden Visas to nurses who have worked with Dubai Health for over 15 years. The initiative recognises the critical role nurses play in supporting community health and well-being. 3. Luxury Yacht Owners and Maritime Executives Abu Dhabi launched the 'Golden Quay' initiative in late 2024, targeting high-net-worth individuals in the maritime sector. Eligible yacht owners—whose vessels are 40 metres or longer—as well as key industry executives, can now obtain 10-year visas. The programme also covers immediate family members, aiming to attract further investment into the emirate's growing yachting industry. 4. Gaming Professionals and eSports Talent Dubai's push to become a regional gaming hub took a major leap forward in 2024 when it began offering Golden Visas to gaming professionals. Applicants must be at least 25 years old and demonstrate experience in roles such as eSports players, game developers, or content creators. The visa falls under the culture and arts category, encouraging global talent to set roots in the emirate. 5. Religious Scholars and Imams In a move to honour long-serving religious figures, Dubai extended Golden Visas in April 2024 to imams, preachers, muezzins, muftis, and researchers who have served the emirate for 20 years or more. The initiative, announced ahead of Eid Al Fitr, underscores the UAE's commitment to preserving religious and cultural values. 6. Content Creators and Influencers In early 2025, Dubai launched a new initiative through Creators HQ, offering Golden Visas to digital content creators, podcasters, influencers, and visual artists. The programme also invites advertising firms, media production houses, and fashion and lifestyle brands, creating a robust ecosystem for creative industries to flourish in the UAE. 7. Environmentalists – Blue Visa While technically a different category, the Blue Visa mirrors the Golden Visa's benefits, offering 10-year residency to individuals who've made exceptional contributions to environmental sustainability. This includes members of NGOs, international organisations, scientists, award-winning researchers, and globally recognised environmental activists working to protect ecosystems and promote sustainable living. The expansion of the UAE's long-term residency programme reflects a strategic push to diversify the nation's talent base and foster innovation across key sectors. By removing traditional barriers like employer sponsorship and frequent visa renewals, the initiative allows outstanding individuals to focus on meaningful work while calling the UAE home. News Source: Khaleej Times
Forbes
10-04-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The New Era Of Global Mobility And What It Means For Business Leaders
Armand Arton is the Chairman and CEO of Arton Capital, a leading company in the investment migration industry. We are entering a new era of investment migration—one where exclusivity, strategic selection and national priorities are increasingly shaping the future of global mobility. Amid rapidly evolving economic landscapes and geopolitical shifts, governments are rethinking how they attract talent and capital investment—and it's something investors and entrepreneurs should be paying attention to. Governments are refining their approaches to ensure their programs remain competitive and aligned with national priorities. For example, the reinstatement of residency and citizenship programs in Hungary and Quebec, Canada, signals a resurgent competition in attracting global talent and capital. Or, consider Grenada's citizenship-by-invitation program, which handpicks individuals who bring both financial investment and strategic value to the host nation. (Full disclosure: My company helped design this program and, in partnership with Forbes Global Talent, is facilitating the nominations and vetting for this program.) In my view, initiatives like these also reflect a clear recognition: Investment migration can be a powerful tool for national development when directed with precision. A similar trend can be seen in how nations are focusing on investment in key industries. Rather than offering blanket incentives, forward-thinking governments are using targeted strategies to direct capital where it is needed most. Dubai's Blue Visa initiative is a prime example of this approach. Announced at the 2025 World Governments Summit, the initiative grants residency to an initial cohort of 20 sustainability leaders, signposting the United Arab Emirates's ambition to become a global leader in climate action. Beyond investment strategies, the modernization of passport systems is another essential frontier in strengthening global mobility. As countries refine their approaches, ensuring ever more seamless, secure and efficient travel is critical. Ethiopia's planned updates to its passport system are a promising example of how governments are taking tangible steps toward enhancing global mobility infrastructure. I believe the adoption of biometric technology, digital identities and e-visa systems will further streamline cross-border movement, setting a new standard for efficiency and security. As nations modernize their systems and negotiate greater visa-free access, they enhance not only the travel freedoms of their citizens but also their attractiveness to foreign investors and talent. In an increasingly interconnected world, a strong passport is more than a travel document; it is a gateway to opportunity. Another key development to watch is how the Trump administration will influence U.S. visa and immigration policies, particularly with the proposal for a $5 million "gold card" visa. This initiative, intended to replace the EB-5 visa program, seeks to attract wealthy investors willing to make a significant financial commitment in exchange for U.S. citizenship. While the full impact of this program remains to be seen, its potential to reshape global mobility trends is substantial, given the U.S.'s influential role in shaping immigration patterns. From my perspective, it could significantly alter talent migration flows in favor of the U.S. and may prompt other nations to reevaluate their own immigration and investment strategies. For entrepreneurs, executives and investors, understanding these trends is not just a "nice to have." It is a strategic imperative. Governments are actively choosing which industries to prioritize by directing foreign capital and talent into specific sectors, including sustainability, technology or infrastructure. Business leaders have a role to play in shaping this future. Engaging with policymakers, advocating for investment in key industries and supporting international talent mobility will be essential in ensuring that global mobility programs continue to drive economic growth and foster a spirit of innovation. The future of global mobility is what states make of it. As governments refine their strategies, modernize their systems and adapt to shifting economic realities, staying ahead of these trends will be crucial for those looking to navigate this space effectively. By understanding where investment is flowing, how policies are evolving and where opportunities lie, businesses and investors can position themselves at the forefront of this transformation—driving growth, fostering collaboration and shaping the next era of global human development. Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?
Khaleej Times
05-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Golden Visa puts UAE among top 10 countries that offer best opportunities for the next generation
The UAE has been ranked among the world's top 10 countries whose investment migration programme offers the best opportunities for the next generation. The UAE has been ranked seventh with high scores in top-tier employment prospects, earning potential, and economic mobility, according to the Henley Opportunity Index released by Henley and Partners. The UAE has also been placed high in premium education, high livability and career advancement. With a total opportunity score of 67 per cent, the UAE has been ranked above Austria, New Zealand, Italy, Hong Kong, Latvia, Malta, Hungary, Greece and Portugal. The index evaluates the world's top investment migration destinations across six parameters — earning potential, career advancement, top-tier employment prospects, premium education, economic mobility and high livability. 'Investment migration routes such as the UAE's Golden Visa and New Zealand's Active Investor Plus Visa offer next-generation opportunity advantages,' Henley and Partners said. The UAE has introduced several long-term residency schemes such as a 10-year Golden Visa for property buyers, investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students among others. Similarly, long-term residency includes a Retirement Visa and Blue Visa for sustainability thought leaders among others. Thousands of investors and property buyers have been awarded a 10-year Golden Visa since its launch in 2019. Many millionaires from around the world have made the UAE their home by purchasing properties over Dh2 million, making them eligible for the 10-year residency scheme. 'As Dubai and Abu Dhabi solidify their positions as key wealth hubs, career opportunities are expanding rapidly, attracting industry leaders exploring opportunities in a competitive and well-connected global market. The UAE stands out as a leading economic centre, where rapid progress is fuelled by the strong presence of multinational companies. It attracts individuals highly skilled in engineering, mathematics, private healthcare, science, and technology, fostering an international workforce and extensive networking possibilities,' Henley and Partners said. 'Offering a blend of innovation, connectivity, and progressive industries, the UAE is a top destination for those seeking sustained professional success,' it added. Switzerland leads the ranking of top investment migration programmes for accessing opportunities, with a total score of 84 per cent, followed by Singapore, the US, Australia, Canada and the UK.
