The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) offers a special long-term visa that enables professionals to live and work in the UAE without the need for a sponsor if you are an artist or photographer wishing to make the UAE your home.
On February 14, 2021, DCT Abu Dhabi introduced the “Creative Visa” initiative for anyone working in the arts and creative industries.
So, if you’re thinking about using this visa option, here’s all you need to know.
Who can apply for the Abu Dhabi Creative Visa?
Professionals in the following fields of creative work are eligible for the DCT Abu Dhabi Creative Visa:
- Visual Arts
- Publishing
- Performing Arts
- Design and Crafts
- Heritage
- Gaming and e-Sports
- Media
How to apply for the Abu Dhabi Creative Visa?
According to the department’s phone center, you must complete an “endorsement for creatives” form by DCT Abu Dhabi before starting your Creative Visa application. Your personal information and documentation demonstrating your expertise and experience in the media, cultural, and creative industries must be included in this application form. Here is how to finish the first stage in order to obtain the visa:
- Visit https://endorsementform.adcreativevisa.gov.ae/. You will first be provided with a list of endorsement rules, which you need to read and understand before clicking on the ‘proceed’ button.
- Fill out the following personal details:
- Full name
- Enter you email address
- Gender
- Nationality
- Passport details
- Date of birth
- Country of birth
- City
- Next, describe your profession and credentials.
- The information relevant to your visa, including your UID number, will then be requested. Only current residents of the UAE may access this area.
- The application form will next ask you a few questions about your background, including any prior arrests and information on the family members you would like to sponsor if you were granted a long-term visa.
- You will then be required to provide your home address and other information.
- The next step is crucial to complete correctly because this is where you will upload the necessary documentation demonstrating your qualification for the Creative Visa.
- Next, submit a colored passport photo with a white background and a copy of your passport.
- Select the category under which you are submitting your visa application:
- Visual Arts
- Publishing
- Performing Arts
- Design and Crafts
- Heritage
- Gaming and e-Sports
- Media
- Check the box to accept the terms and conditions, then provide your full name and the application’s date.
- Click the “submit” button.
Your registered email address will receive a confirmation email with the reference number and the status of your application when you have successfully submitted the form.
What happens after submitting the endorsement application?
After the application has been filed successfully, the department will review it. If it meets all the requirements, DCT Abu Dhabi will send you an update informing you that your application was accepted. After that, the Department will proceed to request your visa. However, the applicant is required to pay for the visa.
Also Read: Traveling to Abu Dhabi? Tourists can register on the Al Hosn App by following these steps