August 23, 2024

All About Getting a Freelance Visa in the Dubai, UAE

The rise of the gig economy has fuelled the popularity of freelance work, offering professionals flexibility and freedom. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) recognises this trend and welcomes freelancers with its dedicated freelance visa program. According to the latest report, freelancer registrations on talent-on-demand platforms surged by 122% over the previous year, with an average monthly salary of $10,000 (AED 36,700). This guide equips you with all the information needed to navigate obtaining a freelance visa in the UAE, including eligibility, the application process, and benefits. Whether you’re a digital nomad, creative professional, or consultant, this resource will empower you to pursue freelance opportunities in this dynamic region.

Clarity on Freelance Visa and Freelance Permit

UAE, a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, welcomes freelancers with a diverse range of visa options in 2024. This guide explores these options, empowering you to choose the perfect fit for your freelance journey.

The entities might get confused while reading about freelance visas and freelance permits. Both documents might seem the same in nature, but they are not. A freelance visa is a document that is usually issued to a non-resident. The non-resident, via a freelance visa, can gain a residency permit. This permit gives the holder, or freelancer, the right to reside and work in Dubai. Usually, these freelance visas are acquired by non-residents who are not sponsored by their parents or spouse but are still willing to reside and work in the Dubai, UAE.

A freelance permit is given to residents of Dubai who are usually sponsored by their parents or spouses. Due to the sponsorship, they are not required to get a freelance visa in order to work as freelancers in Dubai. 

 

Understanding the Need for a Freelance Visa in the Dubai, UAE

The freelance visa fulfils a crucial need for international freelancers seeking to work legally in the Dubai, UAE. Here’s why it’s essential:

  • Legality: A freelance visa grants you legal work authorization, making you more attractive to potential clients who prioritise compliance.
  • Access to Services: The visa unlocks access to essential services like healthcare and banking, crucial for daily life and financial management.
  • Official Recognition: It allows you to sign contracts, rent an apartment, and enjoy benefits reserved for valid visa holders.
  • Getting a bank account easily: The entities getting a freelance visa in the UAE can open bank accounts for themselves without much complexities.
  • Getting Dubai, UAE residency: Getting a freelance visa in the UAE can enable you to stay and work in Dubai and the UAE for the required period without any legal constraints.
  • Sponsor family members: A freelance visa holder has the option to sponsor his or her family members to live with them. 

Having a freelance visa streamlines your work experience and positions you for success in the UAE’s thriving freelance market.

Eligibility Criteria for Getting a Freelance Visa

Eligibility requirements for a freelance visa can vary slightly between emirates. However, some general criteria apply. The main eligibility criteria include the following:

  • The entity applying for the freelance visa must at least have a minimum qualification of a bachelor’s degree or any equivalent qualification.
  • The entity must have a work permit from the MOHRE (the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization).
  • The entity must have a minimum annual income of 360,000 AED for the prior 2 years from being a self-employed individual.

Additional Considerations:

  • Emirate-Specific Requirements: Research the specific requirements of your chosen emirate (e.g., UAE, Abu Dhabi) for any additional documents or processes.
  • Freelance Permit: Obtaining a freelance permit from the relevant UAE authority might be necessary alongside the visa application.
  • Health Insurance: Securing health insurance often proves mandatory for obtaining a freelance visa.

Advantages of a Dubai, UAE Freelance Visa

A UAE Freelance Visa grants you access to these advantages, empowering you to craft a thriving freelance career:

  • Unmatched Flexibility: Ditch the rigid 9-to-5! Freelancing in the Dubai, UAE allows you to be your own boss, manage your schedule, and choose projects that align with your interests. This freedom empowers you to design a work-life balance that suits your needs.
  • Low Startup Costs: Compared to establishing a business, freelancing requires minimal investment. You can work from the comfort of your home, eliminating the need for expensive office space or lengthy commutes. This low barrier to entry makes freelancing an attractive option for individuals just starting their freelance journey.
  • Family Sponsorship: Once you secure your freelance visa, you can sponsor your family members, including your spouse, to join you in the UAE. This creates a supportive environment and allows you to build a life in this dynamic city with your loved ones.

How do you Apply for a UAE Freelance Visa?

While the specific steps may vary, here’s a general outline to guide you:

  • Select the freelance activity: The first step towards applying for a freelance visa is identifying the activity that you are going to perform. Based on this, you can select the location as if it is a free zone or a mainland.
  • Apply for a freelance permit: The next step involves the application for the freelance permit on the “GoFreelance” website, with all the required documents as instructed by the authorities.
  • Follow-up of the application: The next step involves following up on the application filled out; the approval of the same will take about 10–15 days.
  • Payment of fees and signature: After the approval, the entity will be required to visit the business centre or the free zone opted for to start the freelancing activity and will be instructed to make the registration payment and to sign the documents personally. The entity then might receive the permit through mail.
  • Apply for a freelance visa: Once the permit has been received, the entity can apply for a freelance visa through the DDA, which will allow the entity to get the establishment card and then the freelance visa under the authorisation of DDA.

Required Documents for the Visa Application

The specific documents needed may differ, but generally include:

  • Passport copies (yours and dependents)
  • Updated resume
  • Two professional references
  • A completely filled-out application form
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Educational certificates or relevant qualifications attested by the required authorities
  • Portfolio showcasing your work experience
  • A business plan outlining your freelance activities (depending on the type of visa)
  • No Objection Certificate if required
  • Health insurance coverage documents

Sponsorship Letter for a Freelance Visa

A Letter of Sponsorship or No Objection Certificate (NOC) might be required, depending on your situation. This document serves as a formal endorsement by a legal entity or employer, confirming their support for your residency in the UAE. It’s usually necessary if you’re not relying solely on family sponsorship or full-time employment. Entrepreneurs can obtain the NOC from their registered business, simplifying the process of establishing their freelance presence in the UAE.

Cost of getting a Freelance Visa 

Freelance visa costs can vary slightly depending on the chosen permit and processing options. Generally, expect expenses for:

  • Freelance Permit: Issuance and renewal costs around AED 7,500 annually.
  • Establishment Card: Approximately AED 2,000 for issuance and annual renewal.
  • Employment Visa (Optional): three-year validity: AED 2,750; five-year validity: AED 5,000 (renewal based on visa duration).
  • Residence Visa: Varies depending on location and processing speed (standard vs. express options).

Remember, visa fees can fluctuate. It’s crucial to stay updated on the latest costs for your specific freelance permit.

With its flexibility, affordability, and family-friendly environment, a UAE Freelance Visa opens doors to a rewarding freelance experience in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Conclusion

The UAE’s freelance visa unlocks a vibrant work style, but navigating the application process can be tricky without adequate assistance. But once you get the freelance visa, you can experience multiple advantages that will take your business to the next level. Getting the visa might be complex, but no worries; professional business set-up service providers can assist you in getting the visa process done without further intricacies. Click here to learn more about our licence services.

Get your freelance visa with CDA.

Being a non-resident and starting a freelancing activity in Dubai, UAE, might seem intimidating. You might not have adequate knowledge about the rules and regulations of the land, or you may not be aware of the costs that might be incurred while getting a freelance permit and visa. Stepping into the process of getting a freelance visa without any assistance might still be your nightmare. In such situations, professional business setup and PRO service providers like CDA can be your resort. How? Here is the answer.

CDA is one of the leading business setup consultants in Dubai and across the UAE. For entities planning to start freelancing activities in Dubai, CDA can assist in multiple ways. CDA’s professional team can help in getting the freelance visa issued with no complexities. The team can get your documents sorted, select the appropriate location, and get approvals from all the entities. CDA can assure you of a smooth process for getting the visa issued at a low cost.

To know more, click here