180-Day Visa for UAE Blue Residency: Everything You Need to Know

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has started a new visa program that is now open to people living outside the country. The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) is accepting applications for a special 180-day multiple-entry visa. This visa is mainly for people who want to apply for the UAE’s new long-term Blue Residency Visa. It gives them time to come to the UAE, complete all the necessary paperwork, and finish the application process while staying in the country for up to 6 months.

The launch of the 180-day multiple-entry visa for the Blue Residency is a great opportunity for people who care deeply about the environment. Whether you are a scientist, entrepreneur, researcher, or eco-activist, the UAE wants to support your work. By welcoming these global changemakers, the country is investing in a better, greener future—for itself and for the world.

What Is the Blue Residency Visa?

The Blue Residency is a special 10-year visa introduced by the UAE government. It is given to people who have made big and positive contributions to the environment. These may include efforts in protecting nature, supporting sustainability, or working with clean and renewable energy. People who have done this kind of work in the UAE or in other countries can be considered.

This visa is part of the UAE’s bigger plan to help the environment and fight climate change. It shows how serious the country is about supporting sustainable development and becoming a leader in green and eco-friendly progress.

Who Can Apply for the Blue Residency Visa?

The Blue Residency Visa is meant for individuals who are making a real difference in helping the environment. Here are the types of people who can apply:

1. Influential Environmental Figures
   These are people who have done outstanding work to protect the environment. They may have started big projects, led important campaigns, or helped raise awareness about climate change, pollution, or wildlife protection.
2. Scientists and Researchers
   Experts in science or environmental research who are known around the world for their work. They must be nominated, and the UAE Scientists Council must approve their application. This includes scientists who work in fields like climate science, renewable energy, and pollution control.
3. Investors and Entrepreneurs
   Business owners or startup founders who are working in green industries. For example, they might run companies that create solar panels, electric vehicles, or eco-friendly products. Their work should support sustainable living or reduce harm to the environment.
4. Environmental Specialists
   These are professionals who are working in government departments, private companies, or non-profit groups in the UAE. Their jobs must focus on protecting the environment, managing waste, studying ecosystems, or anything else that supports sustainability.

How to Apply – Simple Step-by-Step Process

If you are eligible, you can apply for the 180-day multiple-entry visa online. The process is quick and easy, and you can do it using the ICP website or mobile app. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Enter Your Information
   Fill in your personal details like name, nationality, and passport information. You also need to upload supporting documents that prove you are eligible for the Blue Residency.
2. Pay the Fees
   You will need to pay the service fees for your visa application. The amount will be shown to you during the process.
3. Submit the Application
   After filling in all the information and uploading the documents, submit your application.
4. Get Confirmation
   Once your application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email from the ICP.

The whole online process takes around 7 minutes, and if everything is in order, your application can be approved within one working day.

The Blue Residency Visa was first announced during the World Government Summit in February. At that event, the UAE awarded the visa to the first group of 20 individuals. These were pioneers and leaders in sustainability who have done amazing work to protect the environment and promote green solutions.

This first phase of the program was a big step in showing the UAE’s serious interest in becoming a global leader in sustainability. It also helped spread the word about the importance of this long-term visa for the environmental sector.

Part of a Bigger Plan for a Greener Future

The Blue Residency Visa is part of the UAE’s broader vision to support sustainability. It joins other special visas like the Golden Visa and Green Visa, which are meant for talented professionals, investors, and skilled workers.

The Blue Residency is different because it focuses only on environmental impact. It shows how much the UAE values people who are working to protect the planet.

To make things easier, the ICP has created a digital system where government departments or environmental organizations can also submit applications on behalf of eligible candidates.

This visa program is not just about giving people permission to live in the UAE. It’s about creating a community of environmental experts, innovators, and leaders who can work together to solve global challenges. It reflects the UAE’s goal of becoming a center for green innovation, research, and sustainable living.

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