Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) especially Keralites, who constitute the largest share of the Gulf diaspora, are elated at the shake-up of United Arab Emirates (UAE)‘s immigration policy which comes into effect on October 3.
They say that the new visa rules are highly beneficial to expatriates, investors and tourists travelling to this Gulf Cooperation Council nation. “ The multiple-entry visit visa is sympathetic to NRI students pursuing their studies in India or other countries. Besides, the new immigration allows the expatriate community to bring their family members and friends to the UAE for longer stay, “ Rajesh Rudran, a legal consultant, based in Abu Dhabi, said.
The advanced visa system includes a 10-year expanded golden visa scheme, a five-year green residency and new entry permits, including one for job seekers. While the multi-entry tourist visa allows visitors to stay in the UAE up to 90 days, the five-year green visa is favourable for skilled workers, freelancers and the self-employed.