UAE Golden Visa for Nurses
The United Arab Emirates has announced that nursing professionals employed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) with over 15 years of service will be eligible for the country's Golden Visa. This initiative follows a directive from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE. The move aims to acknowledge the vital contributions of nurses to the community and their pivotal role in enhancing healthcare quality. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the significance of nursing staff within the healthcare system, highlighting their dedication to patient care and their essential role in improving quality of life. He further noted that Dubai is committed to excellence and honors individuals who demonstrate unwavering dedication in their service. This directive coincides with International Nurses Day on May 12, reflecting the leadership's continued support for healthcare workers. It also underscores the commitment to fostering an environment that empowers nurses to continue their invaluable care for the community.
Golden Visa UAE
The UAE's 'Golden Visa' is a prestigious long-term residence program enabling foreign talents to live, work, or study in the UAE with a suite of exclusive advantages.
Key Benefits Include
A 6-month multiple-entry visa to facilitate residency issuance.
A renewable long-term residence visa (5 or 10 years).
No requirement for a local sponsor.
Flexibility to stay outside the UAE for over six months without impacting visa validity.
Comprehensive family sponsorship: spouses, children (any age), and unlimited domestic helpers.
Security for family: Sponsored members can remain in the UAE for their permit's duration if the primary visa holder deceases.
How to Apply for Golden Visa UAE for Nurses?
Nurses comes under frontline heroes category. The term "frontline heroes" encompasses a range of healthcare professionals, including nurses, medical assistants, laboratory technicians, pharmacologists, and other roles recognized by the Frontline Heroes Office. These individuals are acknowledged for their critical contributions to public health, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Generally, nurses need to meet the following:
Valid Employment Contract: Have a valid employment contract in the UAE.
Educational Qualification: Hold at least a Diploma in Nursing from a recognized university. This degree usually needs to be attested.
Professional License: Hold a valid professional practice license from the relevant health authority in the UAE (e.g., Dubai Health Authority - DHA, Department of Health - DOH Abu Dhabi, or Ministry of Health and Prevention - MOHAP).
Good Conduct: Have a certificate of good conduct and behavior.
How to Apply
The application process can typically be done through:
ICP Website (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security): This is the main federal portal for visa and citizenship services. You can often apply directly online: https://icp.gov.ae
GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) for Dubai: If you are residing in Dubai, apply through GDRFA channels: https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en
TAMM Portal (Abu Dhabi): For those in Abu Dhabi, the TAMM portal offers various government services.
AMER Centers (Dubai) / Accredited Typing Centers: These centers can assist with the application process.
Through Your Employer/PRO: Many healthcare facilities, have Public Relations Officers (PROs) who can assist or guide their eligible employees through the Golden Visa application process.
Important Considerations
Official Sources: Always refer to the official websites of the ICP, GDRFA (for Dubai), or relevant government portals for the most up-to-date information, requirements, and application procedures. Regulations and criteria can change.
Attestation: Ensure the educational documents are properly attested as this is a critical step.
Accuracy: Provide accurate and truthful information in your application.
Processing Time: Processing times can vary.
Employer Support: Discuss with your employer; they might have established processes or offer support for Golden Visa applications for their nursing staff.