The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Sunday announced that it was extending the eligibility of the “golden visa” system, which grants a 10-year residency permit, to PhD holders from top universities, medical doctors, AI specialists and others.
“Today, we approved granting the 10-year Golden Visa to all PhD holders in the UAE. Also, the Golden Visa will be granted to top graduates from UAE-accredited universities with a GPA of 3.8 and above,” Dubai’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said in a statement.
“Other categories granted UAE Golden Residency are specialists in AI, big data, virology, epidemiology & UAE’s high school top graduates and their families. We are keen to embrace talent that drives future development and this is only the beginning,” he said.
“UAE Golden Visa will also include UAE-based physicians as well as engineers in the fields of computer science, electronics, programming, electricity and biotechnology,” he added.
As per the earlier rules, a 10-year visa could also be granted to persons with specialised talents, including researchers in the fields of science and knowledge such as doctors, specialists, scientists, inventors, as well as creative individuals in the field of culture and art. This visa extends to the spouse and children as well. All categories are required to have a valid employment contract in a specialised field of a priority in the UAE.
This is the first batch and it will be followed by other categories. We want talented people and great minds to stay in the UAE and join us in the process of development and achievements, Sheikh Mohammed tweeted.
The decision, which was approved by the UAE Cabinet, aims to attract and retain experts and talented professionals from various fields and scientific disciplines, the report said.
The changes will take place from December 1, 2020.
In addition to the dynamic lifestyle and safety that are considered main characteristics of life in the UAE, Golden Residency holders and their families will be offered a 10-year residency visa.
The new Golden Residency categories expand the programme to further encourage innovation, creativity and applied research, adding to the appeal of a career in the Emirates for the world's brightest minds, the report added
With inputs from PTI
