How to Get a Blue Visa in UAE – Your Path to a 10-Year Residency
To get the UAE Blue Visa, a 10-year residency for environmental advocates, follow these steps:
- Confirm eligibility (e.g., environmental experts, sustainability advocates, global award winners).
- Apply via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) or get nominated by a competent authority.
- Submit documents proving environmental contributions (e.g., research papers, awards).
- Complete a medical exam and background check.
- Receive your Emirates ID and visa stamping.
The Blue Visa UAE price includes a nomination fee of AED 350, plus additional costs for processing and medical exams.
UAE Blue Visa Path to a 10-Year Residency
UAE Blue Visa rewards sustainability advocates with a 10-year residency. It was launched on May 15, 2024, during the Year of Sustainability and invites environmental contributors from around the world to make a difference in the UAE. Whether you’re a marine conservationist or a renewable energy advocate, Blue Visa UAE could be your ticket to a greener future in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
In this guide, we’ll discuss everything that you need to learn about the Blue Visa, starting from eligibility and the application process, how much the Blue Visa UAE price is, and how it compares with other visas such as the Golden Visa. Also, we will answer pressing concerns like, “How long does it take?” and “What documents will I need?” For now, let’s look into how you can get this environmental visa and become part of the UAE’s green agenda.
What Is the UAE Blue Visa?
UAE Blue Visa is a special 10-year residency visa tailored for individuals who have significantly contributed towards environmental protection and sustainability. Imagine it as a reward from the UAE for aiding the planet! Unlike ordinary work visas, the Blue Visa does not need a company sponsor, making it easier for environmental researchers, global award winners, and thought leaders on sustainability to move and work in the UAE.
As part of the UAE’s sustainability goals, the Blue Visa fulfils the dream of the country to become a global innovation hub for the environmental innovation field. It is linked to COP28 and the World Government Summit 2025, where the UAE showcased its green policies. Whether you are involved in climate change mitigation, marine life preservation, or renewable energy, this visa allows you to assist the UAE towards its eco-friendly vision.
Why Was the Blue Visa Introduced?
UAE seeks to become a global leader in sustainable efforts and environmental innovation. To achieve this purpose, the Blue Visa was introduced to attract innovative thinkers and environmentally sound personnel who are willing to move. The UAE Cabinet states that the visa aids the national sustainability objectives by allowing the country to target specific needs such as reducing carbon emissions and waste management.
Programs like these are inspired by 2023-2024’s The Year of Sustainability or COP28. Aiming for further economic diversification, the UAE seeks to advance from a knowledge-based economy towards an ecologically healthy planet. By offering a 10-year residency, the blue visa entices international experts to move and undertake important global sustainability initiatives based in the UAE.
Who Is Eligible for the Blue Visa UAE?
Do you fit the Blue Visa UAE eligibility criteria? This visa is meant for individuals who have done remarkable deeds for the environment, whether in the UAE or overseas. Here is who is eligible to apply:
- Conservationists: One who protects marine fauna, bio-ecosystems, and threatened species.
- Sustainability Advocates: Authorities on renewable energy, circular economy, and waste minimization.
- Environmental Researchers: Scientists developing innovations for climate mitigation and other challenged environmental sciences.
- Public Awareness Campaigners: Environmental educators or campaigners who raise awareness about such issues.
- Members of international organizations: Leaders from international NGOs and global companies engaged, focusing on sustainability.
- Global Award Winners: People awarded for their contribution to the environment.
- Distinguished Activists: People with a documented history of active involvement in environmental advocacy.
You will have to provide some proof of your impact on the environment, whether that be in the form of research papers, reports, or even awards that you have received. There is no age limit, meaning if you are a young researcher or a retired activist, you are more than welcome to apply!
What Are the Benefits of the 10-Year Residency Visa?
The Blue Visa grants more than just residency; it offers a chance at a fulfilling life within the UAE. Below are its most notable advantages:
- Long-Term Residency: Live in the UAE for a total of ten years under long-term residency, with the option to renew.
- Career Opportunities: Work on internationally relevant, cutting-edge sustainability projects.
- Collaboration: Network with international NGOs and organizations for novel environmental solutions.
- Financial Incentives: Possible financial support for certain eco-related professions to some visa holders.
- No Sponsor Needed: No company sponsorship is required. The applicant does not need to be backed by a company, unlike traditional visas.
- Family Sponsorship: Family members can be brought over to avail of government services such as schools and healthcare.
- Recognition: Environmental accomplishments can earn the visa holder recognition on both a global and local scale.
Due to these factors, the Blue Visa serves as an unparalleled opportunity for environmental scholars and experts in sustainability seeking residency in a business-friendly nation.
How to Apply for the Blue Visa in UAE?
Do you want to start your application for the Blue Visa? The procedure is easy but requires precision. You can apply through a nomination or directly. Either way, take note of the following:
Step 1: Check Your Blue Visa UAE Eligibility
Confirm if you belong to one of the categories of environmental researchers or award winners. Compile documentation proving your contributions to the environment, such as awards and project reports.
Step 2: Choose Your Application Path
You have two options:
- Direct Application: Submit an application through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) portal or mobile application.
- Nomination/Recommendation: Nominated by a relevant authority within the UAE or recommended by an international NGO.
Step 3: Gather Documents
Gather the relevant documents (which will be provided in the following pages) to the claim that you have worked in the environment sector and those that will establish your identity.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
- Online: Through the ICP online portal or Smart Services App, you may submit the necessary documents.
- In-Person: If you are within the UAE, then you can visit any of the administrative offices of ICP to submit the documents.
Step 5: Complete Medical and Background Checks
Once you complete your submission, this process will be followed by a medical examination and a background check, which are common to the issuance of all UAE visas.
Step 6: Get Your Blue Visa and Emirates ID
You will get a Blue Visa, have your passport stamped, and receive the Emirates ID. Congratulations! You are now a UAE resident for 10 years!
Step 7: Stay Compliant
Continue your efforts towards preserving the environment and observe the residency rules of the UAE to keep your visa.
What Documents Are Needed for the Blue Visa Application?
You must gather the following documents if you wish to apply for a Blue Visa UAE:
- Proof of Environmental Contributions: Environmental research documentation, project reports, certificates, or global environmental achievement certificates.
- Valid Passport: A copy of the passport, which is valid for at least six months.
- Personal Information: Passport-sized images as well as identification information.
- Endorsement Letters (if applicable): Endorsements from international NGOs or nominations by authorities from the UAE.
- Medical Fitness Certificate: After conducting a medical examination in the UAE.
- Background Check Documents: As needed by the federal authority.
Pro Tip: Organize your documents in a digital folder before applying through the ICP Smart Services App. It saves time and keeps everything in one place!
How Much Does the Blue Visa UAE Cost?
The indicated price is not fixed and can change based on factors such as method of application and added charges. The following is a cost estimate.
- Nomination Request Fee: AED 350 (for nomination-based applicants.)
- Application Processing Fee: AED 500–1,000 based on the channel utilized from ICP.
- Medical Exam: AED 300 -500 based on the conducting clinic.
- Emirates ID: AED 100 – 370 based on duration of validity (between 2 to 10 years).
- Visa Stamping: AED 200- 400.
Total Estimated Cost: 1,450-2620 AED; though this number may alter, especially when affiliate fees are added. It is best to reference the ICP online portal to check exact provisions.
Note: If you’re applying from outside the UAE, you may need a six-month multi-entry visa (AED 1,000–1,500) to complete the process.
How Long Does the Blue Visa Process Take?
Based on the path of application as well as document verification, the processing time for a Blue Visa is as follows:
- Direct Application: 4–8 weeks, assuming all documents are complete.
- Nomination Path: 6–12 weeks, as nominations need extra review by competent authorities.
- Medical and Background Checks: 1–2 weeks, depending on clinic and ICP schedules.
Pro Tip: Submit your application early in the year to avoid delays during busy periods like the World Government Summit or Year of Sustainability events.
How Does the Blue Visa Compare to Other UAE Visas?
In compares on several frameworks with Blue Visa, other programs of UAE residency has include Golden Visa, Green Visa, Remote Work Visa and Multi-Entry Visa.
| Visa Type | Duration | Focus | Sponsor Needed? | Key Benefit |
| Blue Visa | 10 years | Environmental sustainability | No | Supports green initiatives |
| Golden Visa | 10 years | Talent, investors, students | No | Attracts global talent |
| Green Visa | 5 years | Entrepreneurs, skilled workers | No | Supports professional mobility |
| Remote Work Visa | 1 year | Remote workers | No | Enables remote working |
| Multi-Entry Visa | 5 years | Tourism, business | No | Allows frequent visits |
The focus of the Blue Visa is sustainability, and it grants permanent residency to environmental and sustainability leaders. It has more scope than the Green Visa but is more specialized than the Remote Work Visa, which has a one-year limit.
Pro Tip: Setting up a business in UAE can be a smart move for sustainability advocates. For example, launching a company formation in Dubai focused on renewable energy could showcase your commitment to the UAE’s green objectives.
Pro Tips for a Successful Blue Visa Dubai Application
Want to boost your chances of getting the Blue Visa Dubai? Try these tips:
- Highlight Your Impact: For recipients who figure significantly in the environmental proofs relative to impact, provide detailed evidence in reports of water resources pollution results, reduced carbon emissions, or kindly reduce all forms of global awards.
- Get Endorsements: Proposals from international organizations and their NGOs are optimal and boost applications with sponsorships.
- Use the ICP app: The Blue Visa UAE ICP portal is simple and speeds up the application.
- Consider Business Setup: If you’re an environmental researcher starting a sustainability project, explore a business setup in Dubai or a business setup in a free zone to strengthen your application. Business setup consultants in Dubai can help with company formation in Dubai for eco-focused ventures.
- Stay Updated: Follow the UAE’s sustainability agenda on platforms like the World Government Summit website to align your application with current goals.
- Double-Check Documents: Missing or incorrect papers can delay your Blue Visa application.
Conclusion: Start Your Blue Visa UAE Journey Today
The UAE Blue Visa is more than a 10-year residency; it’s an opportunity to permanently live in a country that appreciates your efforts towards tackling environmental issues. Environmentalists, sustainability professionals, and researchers will benefit from this long-term visa as it ensures residency continuity and professional advancement and contributes to the UAE’s environmental vision. We have compiled all the necessary information, from the application procedure for the Blue Visa UAE ICP to the Blue Visa UAE price (which starts at AED 1,450), so that you can get started easily.
Do you wish to create an impact in Dubai or Abu Dhabi? Ensure that you meet the Blue Visa UAE requirements, prepare the necessary documents, and submit your application via the Federal Authority. If joining as a global centre for industry and innovation is on your agenda, then there is no time more opportune than now, with the UAE’s sustainability objectives already in motion.
