IMPACT – MEDIUM

The United Arab Emirates has extended its travel ban for passenger flights from India until at least July 6.

Key Points:

  • Passenger flights from India are suspended until at least July 6. Travelers who have transited through India within 14 days of intended arrival will not be permitted entry into the country.
  • UAE citizens, golden visa permit holders and members of diplomatic missions who adhere to the revised COVID-19 policies are exempted from the restrictions.

BAL Analysis: Passenger flights from India have been suspended since April 24. Those with urgent travel needs should work closely with their immigration provider to discuss the best available options. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by Berry Appleman & Leiden. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

IMPACT – MEDIUM

Abu Dhabi recently updated its green countries list to include six additional countries, amended entry policies and announced it would end its mandatory quarantine policy for all international arrivals on July 1.

Key Points:                    

  • On May 23, Azerbaijan, Germany, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Spain and the U.S. were added to the list of 29 green countries. Travelers from these countries are not required to undergo the mandatory 10-day quarantine upon arrival. The full list of green countries is available here.
  • Effective on July 1, Abu Dhabi will end its quarantine requirements for all international arrivals.
  • Under current rules, vaccinated UAE citizens and residents of Abu Dhabi arriving from green countries are required to take a PCR test on arrival and on day six of their stay but are not required to quarantine.
    • The rule applies to travelers who have received their second dose of the vaccine at least 28 days prior to traveling to Abu Dhabi. Travelers must document their medical history on the Al Hosn application.
  • Vaccinated UAE citizens and residents of Abu Dhabi arriving from countries that are not on the green list must take a PCR test upon arrival and on day four of their stay as well as quarantine for five days.
  • Non-vaccinated UAE citizens and residents of Abu Dhabi arriving from green countries must take a PCR test upon arrival and on day six and day 12 of their stay but are not required to quarantine.
  • Non-vaccinated UAE citizens and residents of Abu Dhabi arriving from other countries must take a PCR test upon arrival and on day eight of their stay as well as quarantine for ten days.

Additional Information: Passenger flights from India will remain suspended until at least July 6. Travelers who have transited through India within 14 days of intended arrival into the UAE will not be permitted entry.

Analysis & Comments: The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by Berry Appleman & Leiden. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2021 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.

The United Arab Emirates has extended its travel restrictions for passenger flights from India until June 14. In addition, restrictions remain in place on travel from Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka indefinitely. Travel also remains restricted from Nigeria and South Africa.

Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka

  • Flights from India are suspended until June 14.
  • Flights from Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are suspended until further notice.
  • Travelers who have transited through Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka within 14 days of intended arrival will not be allowed to enter the country.
  • UAE nationals, golden-visa holders and members of diplomatic missions are exempt from the above restrictions provided they adhere to other COVID-19 protocols.

Nigeria and South Africa

  • Travel to/from Nigeria is still suspended until further notice.
  • Travel from South Africa is suspended until June 30.
  • Travelers who have transited through Nigeria or South Africa within 14 days of intended arrival will not be allowed to enter the country. UAE nationals and members of diplomatic missions are exempt from the above restrictions provided they adhere to other COVID-19 protocols.

Analysis & Comments: The restrictions make travel more difficult for anyone who has been in any of the countries listed above. Those with urgent travel needs should work closely with their immigration provider to discuss the best available options. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States, which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2021. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

The UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA-UAE) recently announced a new 6-month visa option for those finalizing Golden Visa residency procedures.

Key Points:

  • The new 6-month multiple-entry visa can be renewed once if more time is needed to complete the Golden Visa process.
  • Among those who may qualify for the visa are:
    • Entrepreneurs.
    • Inventors.
    • Investors.
    • Outstanding high school and university students.
    • Ph.D. holders.
    • Doctors and scientists.
    • Athletes.
    • Creative specialists in culture and the arts.

Analysis & Comments: This 6-month visa may significantly benefit individuals who intend to travel frequently to the UAE throughout Golden Visa application process. Those interested in applying for a Golden Visa or the new 6-month visa are encouraged to work closely with Deloitte.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2021. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

The Cabinet of the United Arab Emirates recently approved plans for remote visas and a five-year tourist visa.

Key Points:

  • Remote work visa. The remote work visa will be a one-year visa that will allow foreign nationals to live and work in the UAE, even if their company is based elsewhere. Applicants will not need to be sponsored by a UAE-based employer. Dubai launched a similar program in October; it will now be rolled out across the UAE. Additional information, including an implementation date, is expected soon.
  • Five-year tourist visa. The five-year tourist visas will be valid for multiple entries and for stays of up to 90 days, extendable for an additional 90 days. The visas will be available to all nationalities, at the discretion of UAE authorities. Authorities first introduced five-year visas last year, but they were suspended because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Analysis & Comments: The remote work visas will present an opportunity for employers and employees, particularly with the growth in the non-traditional workforce. Remote work programs carry a number of compliance risks, however, and applicants are encouraged to consult with Deloitte to assess whether the remote work visa is a good option for them.

The five-year tourist visas, meanwhile, will make travel to the UAE easier for frequent visitors. Travelers are reminded, however, that work activities are not permitted on tourist visas.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

IMPACT – HIGH

The United Arab Emirates recently announced that it would invite some foreign nationals to apply for citizenship.

The change follows efforts in recent years to make long-term residency available to top foreign talent, as the UAE moves to solidify its reputation as a destination for foreign business and investment. For now, the citizenship program is only open to foreign nationals who are nominated by the Federal Cabinet, the Ruler’s Office or an Executive Council within an Emirate.

Among those who may be eligible:

  • Doctors and specialists with at least 10 years’ experience in a field or discipline that is in demand in the UAE.
  • Scientists at a university or private sector research institution who have at least 10 years’ experience in their field.
  • Investors who own property in the UAE.
  • Inventors with at least one patent approved by the UAE Ministry of Economy or another reputable international body.
  • Creative individuals, such as authors or artists, who are pioneers in their field.

In many cases, applicants will have to show that they have earned international recognition or awards for their work. Some applications will have to be supported by letters of recommendation. More information on eligibility requirements are available here. Requirements are subject to change and citizenship decisions will be made at the discretion of the UAE government.

Those whom the UAE grants citizenship to will be able to maintain their current nationality and become dual citizens. The UAE will permit successful citizenship applicants to sponsor their immediate family members for citizenship as well.

Analysis & Comments: The change is a significant development for the UAE, which, up until now, had significant restrictions on foreign nationals becoming citizens, including the need to renounce any existing nationalities and passports; under these reforms, second nationalities are permitted. The program will offer a limited number of foreign nationals to obtain UAE citizenship. For now, the program is only open to those whom UAE governmental bodies sponsor. Employers with employees who may be eligible for citizenship may wish to consult with Deloitte.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

IMPACT – HIGH

Officials in Dubai have announced that General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) approval is no longer required for Dubai visa holders returning to Dubai.

Key Points:

  • Previously, Dubai visa holders returning to Dubai from abroad were required to obtain GDRFA approval. A system was established in June of 2020 to apply for this approval.
  • Though GDRFA approval is no longer required for Dubai visa holders returning to Dubai, many testing, travel and health protocols remain in place. More information about these requirements is available here.

Analysis & Comments: The removal of the pre-travel approval requirement will make it easier for Dubai visa holders abroad to return to Dubai. The response to COVID-19 continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

 

 

IMPACT – HIGH

The United Arab Emirates government recently announced that foreign students in the UAE will be permitted to sponsor their family members so they can obtain residency visas to live in the UAE.

Key Points:

  • The new residency policy will allow eligible family members who live outside the UAE to join their relatives who are currently studying there. The UAE residence visa will be sponsored by the students for the duration of their education.
  • Family members of foreign students in the UAE must have sufficient income to be sponsored to live in the UAE.

Analysis & Comments: The change is welcome news that could help draw students to the UAE because they will soon be able to bring their family members. Additional information on an implementation date, the types of family members who will be covered and on the income requirements is expected soon.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2021. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

 

 

IMPACT – HIGH

United Arab Emirates residents with valid residence visas who have remained out of the country for more than 180 days have been given until March 31 to return to the UAE.

Key Points:                            

  • Holders of valid residence visas issued in Dubai must receive approval to return from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs before booking their flights. Visa validity can be checked on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website.
  • Holders of valid residence visas granted by other emirates must verify their re-entry on the UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website before booking their return flights.
  • Holders of UAE resident visas that expired before March 1, 2020, or expired after March 1, 2020 and were extended until Dec. 31, 2020, must apply for new visas in order to enter the UAE.

Additional information: Travelers entering the UAE are subject to COVID-19 testing and health protocols, details about them are available here.

Analysis & Comments: Employers may wish to consult with Deloitte to discuss their plans if they intend to have employees return. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available. Please check Deloitte’s COVID-19 Digital Map, available here, for information on travel restrictions and immigration changes in other countries.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2021. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

 

IMPACT – HIGH

The United Arab Emirates has announced that it will expand its Golden Visa program.

Key Points:

  • The UAE authorities have announced that, effective Dec. 1, the eligibility requirements for the 5-10 year Golden Visa will be expanded to the following individuals:
    • PhD holders
    • Physicians
    • Computer and programming engineers
    • Electrical engineers and biotechnology engineers
    • College and university graduates with degrees in artificial intelligence, certain data fields, epidemiology, virology
    • Graduates of UAE-accredited universities with grade point averages of 3.8 or greater
    • Top UAE high school graduates and their families
  • Details of the application process are yet to be announced, in particular, whether applicants will require government nomination or they can submit an application directly to the relevant authorities for consideration.

Additional Information: The UAE is expected to add additional categories to the Golden Visa program soon.

Analysis & Comments: The expansion of the Golden Visa program will provide work and residence opportunities for a number of advanced degree holders, high-skilled professionals and top-performing students. At this stage, the UAE authorities are yet to release the details required to assess whether the Golden visa will provide a beneficial alternative work permit option for employers in the UAE. Deloitte will provide a further update and analysis when this becomes available.

Rest of World Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This includes Deloitte Tax LLP in the United States which does not provide legal and/or immigration advice or services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.