UAE launches 'Blue Visa' for VIP Travelers

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has started allowing eligible individuals to apply for its multiple-entry visa, which is eligible for 180 days (or six months) from the date of entry.

Called the 'blue visa', the document will grant a 10-year residency to people who have made extraordinary contributions in certain field as listed by the UAE's Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).

The categories mentioned by ICP are environmental protection, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy. The blue visa was first announced in 2024 and officially launched this year. Now, eligible individuals can apply for the coveted visa whether they are based in the UAE or abroad.

The emirate is focusing more and more on sustainability and this category of visa aligns with the country's long-term goal of making the UAE more sustainable. It celebrated 2024 as second consecutive Year of Sustainability.

How To Apply For Blue Visa:

ICP has a smart services platform and mobile application where eligible individuals can apply. Here are the steps:

Open the website or app, fill in the required information like email ID etc. Give proof of work and accomplishments in the field of environment. A valid passport with at least six months of validity. Pay the applicable fees. Submit the application. The transaction will be confirmed via email.

According to ICP, the entire process takes just seven minutes. "The service is completed within one working day once all documents are verified," the agency said in a brief statement.

Blue visa is an extension of the highly sought after golden visa that has been into existence for some time. It also provides a six-month validity period, which can be extended once.