Program Quick Facts
Fees and Expenses
From $4,100
Income Requirement
$1,500/year
Residency (Visa) Length
1 year
Time to Obtain
2-4 weeks
Complexity
Simple
The United Arab Emirates Freelance Visa offers a streamlined residency solution for freelancers seeking independence and flexibility.
This visa does not require any initial investment, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants. The total fees, including government and legal charges, amount to approximately $4,100 (AED 15k). Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least $1,500 (5500 AED) even though it is not officially required.
The application process can be initiated remotely, ensuring convenience for international applicants. However, a visit to the UAE is mandatory for completing medical tests and biometrics. The entire process is typically completed within 25 days.
To maintain the residency status, visa holders are required to visit the UAE at least once every six months. Dependents are not included under this visa, and it does not provide a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship.
The UAE Freelance Visa is ideal for digital nomads and independent professionals looking for a cost-effective and efficient residency option in the UAE.
You can start the application yourself on platforms like gofreelance.ae.
Who can apply for UAE Freelance visa?
Eligibility and requirements for the main applicant and family members.
Main Applicant Requirements
- Obtain a Freelance License from an approved free zone.
- Obtain an Establishment Card for legal operation.
- Provide a UAE phone number for contact purposes.
- Provide proof of valid medical insurance covering the UAE.
- Submit the original passport with at least six months' validity.
- Provide a recent passport photo (white background).
- Demonstrate relevant work experience in an approved freelance category, such as Media (writing, design, marketing, etc.), Education (tutoring, training, consulting, etc.), or Technology (programming, IT services, etc.).
Spouse/Partner Requirements
- —
Children Requirements
Under 18:
- —
Over 18:
- —
Special Cases (Any Age):
- —
Program Options, Fees and Requirements
Option 1: 1 Year UAE Freelance Visa
The UAE Freelance Visa allows individuals to work independently in the UAE, offering a flexible residency option to freelancers and self-employed professionals.
Requirements:
Freelance License + Establishment Card
Freelance license and establishment card required to operate legally as a freelancer in the UAE (AED 9520, approx. $2593).
Amount: $2,593
Health Insurance
Health insurance valid in the UAE, with the cheapest option for a 32-year-old male costing approximately AED 5500 ($1496).
Amount: $1,496
Fees:
Visa Application Fee
Application fee of AED 2752 (approx. $750) per person.
Amount: €750
Entry Permit Fee
Entry permit fee of AED 800 (approx. $218) per person (if applicable).
Amount: €218
Medical Test Fee
Medical fitness test fee of AED 700 (approx. $191) per person.
Amount: €191
Emirates ID Fee
Fee for issuing the Emirates ID, AED 370 (approx. $101) per person.
Amount: €101
The UAE Freelance Visa allows individuals to work independently in the UAE, offering a flexible residency option to freelancers and self-employed professionals.
Main Applicant | Spouse (additional) | Child (additional) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Requirements | |||
Freelance License + Establishment Card | $2,593 | $0 | $0 |
Health Insurance | $1,496 | $1,496 | $1,496 |
| Fees and Expenses | |||
Visa Application Fee | $750 | $750 | $750 |
Entry Permit Fee* | $218 (not included in total) | $218 (not included in total) | $218 (not included in total) |
Medical Test Fee | $191 | $191 | $191 |
Emirates ID Fee | $101 | $101 | $101 |
| Total Cost | $5,131 for main applicant | $7,669 for married couple | $10,207 for family of 3 |
| * Items marked with an asterisk are not included in the total cost calculation | |||
Benefits & Restrictions
Benefits | Restrictions and Drawbacks |
|---|---|
LifestyleExperience a warm climate and high quality of life in the UAE, with access to one of the world's most well-connected airports, making travel seamless. | No Path to CitizenshipThe program does not provide a pathway to UAE citizenship, limiting options for long-term permanent settlement. |
ResidencyBenefit from fast visa processing, typically completed in just 25 days, and minimal residency requirements of visiting the UAE once every six months. | No Path to Permanent ResidencyThere is no opportunity to transition to permanent residency under the Freelance Visa, as it is designed solely for temporary stays. |
TaxEnjoy a tax-free environment with no income tax, capital gains tax, or dividend tax, offering significant savings for freelancers. |
Freelance visa vs other programs in Uae
| Criteria | Freelance Visa | Virtual Work Visa> | Golden Visa> |
|---|---|---|---|
| Investment Amount | $0 | $0 | $545,000 |
| Residency Type | Temporary Residency | Temporary Residency | Long Term Visa |
| Application Fees | $4,100 | $500 | $2,636 |
| Annual Income Requirement | $1,500 | $5,000 | $0 |
| Annual Presence Requirement | 2 days | 2 days | 0 days |
| Key Perks | Simple Setup | Simple SetupLow Cost Program | No Presence RequiredInstant Permanent Residency |
| Ideal For | Digital Nomads | Digital Nomads | InvestorsHNWI |
How to apply for Freelance visa - Timeline
Obtain Freelance Permit and Establishment Card
Complete the process to obtain a freelance permit and establishment card, granting permission to work as a freelancer in the UAE.
Submit Visa Application and Entry Permit
Apply for a visa and entry permit if outside the UAE, or initiate status change to a freelance visa if already within the country.
Complete Medical Fitness Test
Undergo medical fitness tests, including blood tests and X-rays, with expedited VIP service available if needed.
Visa Stamping
Have your visa stamped on your passport to officially confirm your residency status.
Process Emirates ID
Submit biometrics and wait for your Emirates ID to be processed and delivered via courier.
UAE Taxation at a glance
Key Information
Taxation Type: No Personal Income Tax
Special Regime:
Normal Tax Residency: 183 days
Special Residency:
Income Tax Rate: 0
Frequently Asked Questions
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