The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has begun allowing eligible individuals currently residing outside the UAE to apply for a multiple-entry visa valid for 180 days from the date of entry. This initiative aims to facilitate the completion of all necessary procedures to obtain the blue residency visa.

The blue visa is a long-term residency (10 years) dedicated to individuals who have made exceptional contributions and efforts in the fields of environmental protection, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy, both from within and outside the country.

Who is eligible?

Distinguished influencers: Individuals with prominent contributions, exceptional efforts, and tangible positive impacts in the fields of environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy.

Scientists and researchers: Individuals with significant global achievements and influence in the areas of environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy, provided they are nominated with the approval of the UAE Scientists Council.

Investors and entrepreneurs: Those operating in the fields of environment, climate change, sustainability, and clean and renewable energy.

Specialists: Professionals working in governmental and private environmental institutions within the UAE.

The authority affirmed its commitment to providing the blue residency visa service to the abovementioned categories around the clock through simplified and accessible procedures via its website and smart application, in accordance with the approved conditions and regulations.

How to apply?

The authority has outlined four steps applicants need to follow on its smart services platform and mobile application (UAEICP):

Filling in the required information and uploading the necessary documents

Payment of applicable fees

Submitting the application

Receiving the transaction confirmation via email.

The application process takes approximately seven minutes, while the service completion time, upon fulfilling all requirements, is one working day.

The required documents include:

A copy of the applicant’s passport, valid for no less than six months

Recent coloured personal photograph

Supporting documents verifying eligibility for the blue residency

During the World Government Summit last February, the ICP in cooperation with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, announced the details of the first phase of the blue residency system in the UAE. In this phase, 20 thought leaders and innovators in the field of sustainability were granted blue residency status.

Sustainability efforts

The blue residency visa is part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts in the field of sustainability. The first phase of the electronic system, provided by the authority, enables relevant government entities in sectors related to sustainability to submit applications for electronic approval via the authority’s official website, following approved procedures. The blue residency complements the previously launched golden and green residency programmes. (Gulf News)