How Much is a UAE Green Visa? – Complete Cost Breakdown!
If you’re considering moving to the UAE for work, business, or investment, you may have come across the UAE Green Visa. This visa is designed for skilled professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who wish to live in the UAE without requiring a local sponsor. But how much does it actually cost?
In this article, we’ll break down the expenses related to the UAE Green Visa, including application fees, additional charges, and hidden costs you should be aware of. We’ll also explore whether it’s worth the investment and how it compares to other UAE residency options.
Understanding the UAE Green Visa – A Simple Guide!
Before we get into the cost details, let’s first understand what the UAE Green Visa is all about. The UAE introduced this visa to attract skilled professionals and investors by offering a five-year residency without needing a company or employer to sponsor the visa holder. Unlike traditional work visas that are tied to a company, the Green Visa gives individuals the freedom to work for multiple employers, start their own businesses, or work as freelancers.
Who Can Apply for a Green Visa?
The UAE Green Visa is available to:
- Skilled workers (with at least a bachelor’s degree and a salary of AED 15,000 per month)
- Freelancers and self-employed individuals
- Investors and entrepreneurs who are setting up or managing businesses in the UAE
How Much Does a UAE Green Visa Cost? – Full Breakdown (2025)!
Now, let’s talk about the actual expenses. The cost of the UAE Green Visa isn’t just one flat fee—there are multiple charges involved.
1. Visa Application Fee
The basic cost for the UAE Green Visa application is AED 200. However, this is just the starting point.
2. Additional Government Fees
There are additional government charges, which include:
- Knowledge Dirham Fee: AED 10
- Innovation Dirham Fee: AED 10
- Value-Added Tax (VAT): 5% on some charges
3. Medical Test and Emirates ID Fees
To apply for the visa, you’ll need a mandatory medical test and an Emirates ID. These additional costs can add up:
- Medical Test Fee: AED 300 – AED 700 (depending on the emirate and medical center)
- Emirates ID Fee: AED 1,000 (for a 5-year validity)
4. Residency Permit Fees
Once approved, you need to pay for the residence permit, which costs around AED 2,280. This doesn’t include any additional processing charges.
5. If You’re Applying from Inside the UAE
If you are already in the UAE and want to change your visa status, there is an extra cost of AED 600 – AED 1,000.
6. Total Estimated Cost
When you add everything up, the total cost of a UAE Green Visa can range from AED 4,000 to AED 5,500, depending on your situation.
| Expense | Estimated Cost (AED) |
| Visa Application Fee | 200 |
| Knowledge & Innovation Fees | 20 |
| Medical Test | 300 – 700 |
| Emirates ID | 1,000 |
| Residency Permit | 2,280 |
| Status Change Fee (if applicable) | 600 – 1,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 4,000 – 5,500 |
Are There Any Hidden Costs?
Yes! Many applicants forget to account for these additional expenses:
- Translation and Document Attestation – If your documents (such as a degree certificate) are not in Arabic, you may need to pay for legal translation and attestation. This can cost AED 200 – AED 500 per document.
- Visa Stamping Fees – Sometimes, there may be extra visa stamping costs depending on the emirate.
- Health Insurance – The UAE requires all visa holders to have health insurance, which can cost anywhere from AED 1,500 to AED 4,000 per year, depending on the coverage.
Is the UAE Green Visa Worth It?
With a cost of AED 4,000 – 5,500, you might be wondering whether the Green Visa is worth the investment. Here are a few reasons why it could be a good choice:
- No need for a local sponsor – Unlike other UAE work visas, you don’t need a company to sponsor you.
- More flexibility – You can work for multiple employers, start a business, or freelance legally.
- Five-year residency – Unlike a standard work visa, which is typically valid for two or three years, the Green Visa gives you five years of stability.
- Family Sponsorship – You can sponsor your spouse, children, and even parents without additional employer approval.
However, if you’re only planning to stay for a short period, other visa options (such as a standard work visa) might be more cost-effective.
How Does the Green Visa Compare to Other UAE Residency Options?
If you’re unsure whether the Green Visa is the right fit for you, here’s a quick comparison:
| Visa Type | Validity | Sponsorship Needed? | Estimated Cost (AED) |
| Work Visa | 2-3 years | Yes (Company Sponsor) | 3,000 – 7,000 |
| Green Visa | 5 years | No | 4,000 – 5,500 |
| Golden Visa | 10 years | No | 10,000+ |
| Freelance Visa | 1-2 years | No | 7,500+ |
FAQs:
1. Can I pay for my UAE Green Visa in installments?
No, the UAE government requires full payment upfront for the Green Visa. However, if you’re using a visa service agency, some may offer installment plans or financing options through banks. Be sure to check with your visa provider if you need a flexible payment option.
2. How long does it take to get a UAE Green Visa after paying the fees?
Once you pay the fees, it usually takes 2 to 4 weeks to get your UAE Green Visa. The exact time depends on how quickly your documents are processed and approved.
3. Will I get a refund if my UAE Green Visa application is rejected?
Unfortunately, visa application fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied. This includes medical test fees, Emirates ID processing charges, and other government fees. To avoid rejection, double-check all your documents and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
Final Thoughts
The UAE Green Visa is a fantastic option for skilled professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who want long-term residency with more flexibility. While the cost can range from AED 4,000 to AED 5,500, it offers benefits that make it a worthwhile investment.
If you’re considering applying, make sure to account for all extra costs, such as medical tests, document attestation, and health insurance. And if you’re already in the UAE, don’t forget about the status change fee.
So, is the UAE Green Visa worth it for you? That depends on your goals! If you’re looking for independence, stability, and long-term residency, then the Green Visa is definitely a great option.
