15-05-2025
UAE launches 10-year Blue Residency visa for global sustainability contributors
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The United Arab Emirates has started accepting applications for a 180-day multiple-entry visa from individuals currently residing outside the country. The initiative, launched by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), allows eligible individuals to enter the UAE and complete the necessary steps to obtain the Blue Residency – a 10-year visa designed for contributors in the fields of environmental protection, sustainability, and clean or renewable energy, as per a report by Gulf Blue Residency targets individuals who have made notable contributions in environmental and sustainability-related sectors. According to the ICP, the visa is open to several categories: influential figures who have positively impacted sustainability and climate-related fields; scientists and researchers with global achievements, approved by the UAE Scientists Council; investors and entrepreneurs in green sectors; and specialists working in environmental roles within UAE-based per the report by Gulf News, applications for the visa can be submitted online via the ICP's official website or mobile application. The authority has outlined a four-step process: filling in personal and supporting details, uploading necessary documents, making payment, and submitting the application. Once submitted, applicants receive a confirmation by email. ICP states the application takes about seven minutes to complete, and the service is usually processed within one working day, provided all requirements are apply, individuals need a passport valid for at least six months, a recent coloured personal photo, and documents verifying their eligibility in the sustainability field. The ICP confirmed that this service is available around the clock, following the approved terms and Blue Residency programme was first announced during the World Government Summit held in February this year. In its initial rollout, 20 global thought leaders and innovators in sustainability were granted the visa. This programme is part of the UAE's broader efforts to encourage innovation and leadership in sustainability, complementing its existing Golden and Green Residency initiative also includes an electronic nomination system for government bodies operating in sustainability sectors, allowing them to submit candidate details for ICP's approval. The UAE aims to support long-term environmental progress by attracting and retaining talent focused on renewable energy, climate change, and sustainable development.
