Would you like to find a means to have long-term residency in Dubai and, at the same time, be known as someone who makes contributions to the environment? The UAE has introduced the Blue Residency Visa, a unique 10-year residence scheme designed for individuals who have made significant investments in areas such as sustainability, climate action, and environmental protection.
I will take you through the Blue Residency Visa step by step in this guide, explaining who is eligible to apply and how to submit your application online on the ICP Smart App or ICP website.
What is the Blue Residency Visa in Dubai?
The Blue Residency Visa is a pioneering UAE initiative introduced in 2024, in line with the country’s vision for sustainability and climate leadership. In contrast to the Golden Visa, where its primary audience includes investors and business owners, the Blue Residency Visa is meant to attract those who have contributed remarkably to protecting the environment, climate change, and green activities.
How to Apply for the Blue Residency Visa
You may apply in two ways:
- Via the ICP Website
- Through the ICP Smart Services App.
I shall describe both in a detailed manner so that you can decide which one is more comfortable for you.
Method 1: Apply via the ICP Website
In case you find it easy to make an application using your computer or laptop, ICP can be used. These are the steps that you should follow:
Step 1: Visit the ICP Website
- Go to the official portal: https://icp.gov.ae.
Step 2: Go to Services
- On the home page, select Services and go to Residency Services.
Step 3: Select Blue Residency
- Choose the Blue Residency Visa for long-term residence.
Step 4: Fill in the Application Form
- Include your personal information, like full name, nationality, passport number, and contact details.
- Indicate the type of applicant that you are: an in-country applicant or an overseas applicant.
Step 5: Upload the Required Documents
Do ensure that you carry the following documents in clear copies:
- Copy of passport (valid 6 months and above).
- Photograph (white background) in passport size.
- Evidence of environmental performance (awards, research papers, patents, NGO participation).
- Professional or academic certificate.
- Health insurance details.
- Nomination letter /reference (in case nominated)
Step 6: Pay the Application Fees
- Prices are different according to your place of application:
- Application and processing: AED 500 -AED 1000 (approx.).
- Entry permit (when foreign-based): approximately AED 1,250.
You can use a credit card, a debit card, and an online bank.
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Step 7: Submit the Application
- Once you apply, you receive a confirmation and application number.
Step 8: Track Application Status
- You can follow up on the status of your application via your application number on the ICP site.
Method 2: Apply via the ICP App
You would rather work with your mobile, the ICP Smart Services App has simplified the process.
Step 1: Download the ICP App
- The application is on both iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play).
- Pre-search: UAEICP or ICP Smart Services.
Step 2: Log in with UAE PASS
- Log in with your UAE PASS.
Step 3: Choose Residency Services
- In the main dashboard of the application, click Residency and then Blue Residency Visa.
Step 4: Complete the Application Form
- Write in all your personal and passport details.
- Provided that you are already in the UAE, then put in your Emirates ID.
Step 5: Upload Your Documents
Same with documents, upload them as we would do with the website method:
- Passport copy.
- Photo with a white background.
- Evidence, certificates, and awards of environmental work.
- Nomination letter (if any).
- Health insurance details.
Step 6: Pay the Fees Through the App
- Pay using a credit card or debit card, or using the digitally accepted wallets in the UAE.
Step 7: Track Your Application in Real Time
- The application enables you to monitor your application in real time.
FAQs
1. What is the Blue Residency Visa of Dubai?
It is a 10-year UAE residency visa for people who have made major contributions to environmental sustainability, climate action, and green efforts.
2. Who is eligible for the Blue Residency Visa?
Environmental professionals, scientists, innovators, NGO members, award winners of awards, and all individuals who are nominated for their contribution towards sustainability.
3. What should I do to be eligible to apply for the Blue Residency Visa?
You may use the online application through the ICP website or the ICP Smart Services by using your UAE PASS.
4. What documents are required?
You will require a valid passport, photo, evidence of environmental accomplishments (projects, awards, research), health insurance, and a nomination/reference.
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Final Words
In case you are keen on applying for the Blue Residency Visa in Dubai, you should aim to show your impact. It is no longer about paperwork; it is about demonstrating your environmental concern.
The process of application itself is easy: select either the ICP website or the ICP Smart Services app, collect the necessary documents, pay the fees, and follow the progress of your application.
