UAE Opens Applications for 10-Year Blue Residency Visa for Sustainability Advocates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially opened applications for its 10-year Blue-Residency Visa. It is a landmark initiative developed to honour people who make appreciable contributions to environmental protection, sustainability, and climate change action. However, the program was first announced in May 2024. In addition, it is now active from early 2025 to strengthen the position of the UAE as a global leader in sustainability. 

What is the UAE Blue Residency Visa?

The Blue Visa is a long-term residency visa valid for 10 years. However, it aims to attract environmental leaders, researchers, and innovators to the Emirates. Moreover, it recognises distinguished professionals, international organisation members, global award winners, and sustainability advocates. It is important to note that all these professionals demonstrate a measurable impact on protecting nature. 

The campaign aligns with the UAE’s national strategy to promote climate action, renewable energy, and sustainable development, while also supporting economic and societal growth. 

Who is Eligible for the Blue Visa?

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has shared details about the eligible people:

• Researchers and scientists in the environment, energy, climate change, and sustainability.
• Investors and entrepreneurs running businesses in renewable energy and green innovation.
• International organisation members, NGOs, and associations focused on sustainability.
• Global, regional, or national award recipients for environmental achievements.
• Professionals working in the UAE government or private environmental agencies.
• Holders of Master’s or Doctoral degrees in sustainability-related disciplines.

UAE residents and international applicants are eligible to apply for this visa. 

Requirements for Application

If you want to apply for this visa, you must submit a few documents. We have listed those papers below:

• A valid passport with the validity of at least six months.
• A recent colour passport-sized photo with a white background.
• Documents proving achievements in environmental protection or sustainability.
• Payment of applicable fees.

If you are an international applicant, you might need a six-month-multiple entry permit costing Dh1250 to complete your residency process. 

How to Apply for the Blue Residency Visa

You can manage the application process through the official platform of the ICP: smartservices.icp.gov.ae. However, you need to perform the steps mentioned below:

Step 1 – Nomination Request

Initially, you must submit the nomination request via the portal, or the authority of the UAE must nominate you. Later, you must pay the nomination request fees worth Dh350. 

Step 2 – Visa Application

Once approved, you need to submit the residency visa application. Plus, it would be best to provide personal details, passport information, occupation, and proof of eligibility. Later, you need to upload documents and pay visa service fees. 

 It is important to learn that applications can also be processed at ICP’s Customer Happiness Centres or authorised typing centres. However, you can start the process through the online portal if you reside outside the UAE. A confirmation email will be sent after you submit the application successfully. 

UAE’s Commitment to Sustainability

The blue visa highlights the efforts of the UAE towards sustainability following its successful hosting of COP28 in Dubai. So, the country aims to foster innovation, support clean energy projects, and build a knowledge-based green economy.

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