DUBAI, Dec 22: The United Arab Emirates has implemented a comprehensive overhaul of its residency and visa framework in 2025, introducing new visa categories and revising existing regulations as part of a broader strategy to reinforce the country’s status as a leading global destination for residence, employment, tourism, and investment.

The reforms, approved by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, include the addition of four new visit-visa purposes, along with updated durations, eligibility requirements, and sponsorship rules across multiple visa and residency permits. According to local media reports, the changes are designed to enhance economic openness, attract highly specialised talent, and support labour market diversification in line with the UAE’s long-term development goals.

Under the revised framework, four new visit visa categories have been introduced:

The updated system also includes significant revisions to several existing visa categories. Foreign truck drivers are now eligible for single or multiple-entry visas under stricter regulatory conditions. These include sponsorship by accredited logistics companies, the provision of financial guarantees, and compliance with health and safety requirements.

Rules governing visits to friends and relatives have been tightened through the introduction of minimum income thresholds for sponsors. Sponsors must earn at least Dh4,000 to invite first-degree relatives, Dh8,000 for second- and third-degree relatives, and Dh15,000 when sponsoring a friend.

Applicants seeking business exploration visas are now required to demonstrate adequate financial capacity, relevant professional experience outside the UAE, or formal recognition of their occupation by competent authorities.

Clarified residency options were also introduced for humanitarian cases. Individuals originating from countries affected by war, natural disasters, or political instability may be granted one-year residency visas. These permits may be renewed, suspended, or issued without a sponsor, subject to the discretion of the authority’s president.

New provisions were outlined for foreign widows and divorcees who were married to UAE nationals or residents. Eligible applicants may receive a six-month residency visa, renewable based on justified circumstances and subject to housing and financial requirements. Custodial mothers are permitted to sponsor their children under the updated rules.

In addition, authorities adopted a unified schedule for visa durations and jurisdictional responsibilities across six main visa categories, aiming to standardise procedures, improve transparency, and enhance service efficiency.

Separately, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with the federal authority, announced the launch of five new services for Golden Visa holders. These include the issuance of electronic return documents in cases of lost passports abroad, round-the-clock emergency assistance, humanitarian evacuation support, repatriation of remains, and access to a dedicated global hotline.

Officials said the expanded services reflect the UAE’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of long-term residents and reinforcing confidence among investors, professionals, and skilled expatriates choosing the country as their home.