UAE visa reforms to take effect next month

WAM

The UAE's advanced visa and entry permit system will come into force on October 3.

That's according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, which said the new system is currently being trialled.

It was earlier announced that the changes would take effect in early September.

Amendments to the visa regulations were first announced by the government in April, aimed at making the UAE a more attractive place to live, work and invest in.

The updated visa and residence scheme offer simplified requirements and greater benefits.

The changes include an easier visa system for job-seekers, an expansion of the Golden Visa programme and the doubling of time visitors can spend in the country from 30 to 60 days.

Parents will be able to sponsor their sons until the age of 25, while skilled workers, freelancers, investors and the self-employed will be able to apply for five-year green visas.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security also confirmed that it will start issuing the new version of the UAE passport through its updated portal.

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