Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored): Overview for Nigerians ₦1,956,648
The Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored) is one of the main routes Nigerians use to relocate to United Arab Emirates. This overview covers the verified 2026 fees, processing time, and the documents you need to apply. All figures are pulled from our verified relocation database — no estimates.
Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored) fees — verified breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa application fee | ₦1,956,648 (~$1,432 USD) |
| Proof of funds (your own savings)Not required | ₦0 (~$0 USD) |
| Health surcharge | ₦0 (~$0 USD) |
| Language test (IELTS/TEF) | ₦0 (~$0 USD) |
| Credential evaluation | ₦0 (~$0 USD) |
| Total government fees | ₦1,956,648 (~$1,432 USD) |
Verified against official immigration authority schedule. Exchange rates as of 21 June 2026. Proof of funds is your own money — you do not pay it to the government.
What each fee covers
The ₦1,956,648 total is made up of several distinct charges. Here is what you are actually paying for:
- Visa application fee — ₦1,956,648: Paid to the United Arab Emirates immigration authority when you submit your application. Non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
Processing timeline
Total processing time: 2–4 weeks
- 1
Confirm eligibility
Check that you meet the Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored) requirements before paying any fees.
- 2
Prepare documents
Passport, qualification certificates.
- 3
Pay fees
Pay ₦1,956,648 in government fees.
- 4
Submit application
Submit online or through the relevant embassy.
- 5
Wait for decision
Processing time: 2–4 weeks.
Expert tip
Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored)
The Green Visa is the UAE’s 5-year self-sponsored residency — you don’t need an employer or investor status. Total government fees are approximately AED 5,260 ($1,432) covering entry permit, residency visa, status change, medical checkup (AED 300–500), and Emirates ID (AED 370). You must hold a valid employment contract or freelance permit with a minimum salary of AED 15,000/month ($4,085), or qualify as a skilled professional with a bachelor’s degree. The big advantage over a standard work visa: if you lose your job, you get 6 months (not 30 days) to find new employment before your visa is cancelled. You can also sponsor your family independently.
Where Nigerians settle in United Arab Emirates
Once your Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored) is approved, most Nigerians head to Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Here is what to budget for your first year:
- Dubai: 1-bedroom rent ₦2,045,925/month · Lagos–Dubai flights from ~$500 · Nigerian community: Large
- Abu Dhabi: 1-bedroom rent ₦2,529,507/month · Lagos–Abu Dhabi flights from ~$520 · Nigerian community: Medium
- Sharjah: 1-bedroom rent ₦929,966/month · Lagos–Sharjah flights from ~$530 · Nigerian community: Medium
Life in Dubai
Dubai has the UAE’s largest Nigerian community, concentrated in Deira and Bur Dubai (Old Dubai) — you’ll find Nigerian restaurants, Nollywood screenings, and churches in these areas. Average 1-bed rent is AED 7,500/month ($2,040), but you can find AED 4,000–5,500 ($1,090–$1,500) in affordable areas like JVC, Dubai Silicon Oasis, and International City. Warning: most Dubai landlords require rent paid in 1–4 annual cheques upfront, not monthly. Budget AED 2,000/month for DEWA (utilities), transport, and phone. Summer temperatures hit 45–50°C from June to September — outdoor work is banned between 12:30pm and 3pm.
7% of Nigerians who use Japa Calculator choose United Arab Emirates as their destination. Average Japa Score: 70/100. Most common salary expectation among applicants: ₦500K–₦2M.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does the Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored) cost for Nigerians moving to United Arab Emirates?
- Total government fees for the Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored) are ₦1,956,648 (about $1,432). This covers the visa application fee, and any other applicable government charges.
- How long does Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored) processing take from Nigeria?
- Processing time for the Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored) is 2–4 weeks. Apply from the United Arab Emirates High Commission in Abuja or the Consulate in Lagos — book your appointment slot as early as possible, as backlogs frequently add 2–4 weeks beyond the official window.
- What documents do I need to apply for the Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored) from Nigeria?
- You will need a valid Nigerian international passport (at least 6 months validity beyond your intended travel date), completed application form, recent passport photographs, and supporting evidence of eligibility.
- Where do most Nigerians settle after relocating to United Arab Emirates?
- Dubai is the most popular destination for Nigerians relocating to United Arab Emirates. Average 1-bedroom rent is ₦2,045,925 per month. The Nigerian community in Dubai is smaller but active; diaspora associations and online groups help new arrivals settle quickly.
Related guides
Sibling variants of this visa route and other ways into United Arab Emirates.
Calculate YOUR Japa Score for United Arab Emirates
Get a personalised cost estimate for the Green Visa (5-year self-sponsored) based on your salary, education, and family size. Takes 2 minutes.
Start Free CalculatorData methodology: Visa fees sourced from official immigration authority schedules. Naira conversions use live exchange rates from open.er-api.com (last updated 21 June 2026). All fees are subject to change with policy updates — verify with the official immigration website before applying. Last verified: 2026-06-03