Program Quick Facts
Fees and Expenses
From $500
Income Requirement
$5,000/year
Residency (Visa) Length
1 year
Time to Obtain
5-7 days
Complexity
Simple
The United Arab Emirates Virtual Work Visa is a temporary residency program designed for digital nomads and remote workers who are employed by a foreign company.
Expenses and Fees: Total fees and expenses would be around 1500-1800 AED including application fees, medical, EID, etc.
Annual Income Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate a minimum annual income of $60,000, equivalent to $5,000 per month.
Dependents Included: Yes, applicants can sponsor dependents under this program.
Processing Time: The visa is approved within 72 hours from the date of application submission.
Remote Application: Applications can be submitted entirely online but to finish the process you need to go to UAE and do a medical check and biometrics.
The UAE Virtual Work Visa offers a straightforward and accessible residency solution for professionals meeting its criteria, making it an ideal choice for remote workers and digital nomads.
Who can apply for UAE Virtual Work Programme?
Eligibility and requirements for the main applicant and family members.
Main Applicant Requirements
- Provide proof of employment with a contract valid for one year.
- Earn a minimum salary of USD 5,000 per month.
- Provide the salary slip for the last month and bank statements for the preceding three months.
- Provide proof of ownership of a company for one year or more (if self-employed).
- Have an average monthly income of USD 5,000 per month (if self-employed).
- Provide bank statements of the company’s account for the preceding three months (if self-employed).
Spouse/Partner Requirements
- —
Children Requirements
Under 18:
- —
Over 18:
- —
Special Cases (Any Age):
- —
Program Options, Fees and Requirements
Option 1: 1 Year UAE Virtual Work Visa
The UAE Virtual Work Visa allows remote workers to live and work in the UAE while employed by a company outside the UAE. It offers a flexible residency option without the need to establish a business locally.
Requirements:
Employment Proof
Proof of employment with a company outside the UAE or ownership of a company, with a minimum monthly salary of $5000
Amount: $0
Health Insurance
Health insurance valid in the UAE for the entire visa duration.
Amount: $410
Fees:
Visa Application Fee
Application fee of $285 per person.
Amount: €285
Entry Permit Fee
Entry permit fee of $155 per person (if applicable).
Amount: €155
Medical Test Fee
Medical fitness test fee of $87 per person.
Amount: €87
Emirates ID Fee
Fee for issuing the Emirates ID, $100 per person.
Amount: €100
The UAE Virtual Work Visa allows remote workers to live and work in the UAE while employed by a company outside the UAE. It offers a flexible residency option without the need to establish a business locally.
Main Applicant | Spouse (additional) | Child (additional) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Requirements | |||
Employment Proof* | $0 (not included in total) | $0 (not included in total) | $0 (not included in total) |
Health Insurance | $410 | $410 | $410 |
| Fees and Expenses | |||
Visa Application Fee | $285 | $285 | $285 |
Entry Permit Fee | $155 | $155 | $155 |
Medical Test Fee | $87 | $87 | $0 |
Emirates ID Fee | $100 | $100 | $100 |
| Total Cost | $1,037 for main applicant | $2,074 for married couple | $3,024 for family of 3 |
| * Items marked with an asterisk are not included in the total cost calculation | |||
Benefits & Restrictions
Benefits | Restrictions and Drawbacks |
|---|---|
LifestyleEnjoy a warm climate year-round and a high quality of life in one of the world's most modern cities, with easy access to global destinations via a well-connected airport network. | No Path to CitizenshipThe program does not provide a pathway to UAE citizenship, making it suitable for those seeking temporary residency without long-term commitments. |
ResidencyBenefit from a fast 72-day processing time and minimal residency requirements, requiring only a visit every six months to maintain your status. | No Path to Permanent ResidencyThere is no option to transition to permanent residency under this program, as it is designed exclusively for temporary stays. |
TaxTake advantage of the UAE's tax-free environment with no income tax, no capital gains tax, and no dividend tax, offering significant savings for remote workers. |
Virtual Work Programme vs other programs in Uae
| Criteria | Virtual Work Visa | Freelance Visa> | Golden Visa> |
|---|---|---|---|
| Investment Amount | $0 | $0 | $545,000 |
| Residency Type | Temporary Residency | Temporary Residency | Long Term Visa |
| Application Fees | $500 | $4,100 | $2,636 |
| Annual Income Requirement | $5,000 | $1,500 | $0 |
| Annual Presence Requirement | 2 days | 2 days | 0 days |
| Key Perks | Simple SetupLow Cost Program | Simple Setup | No Presence RequiredInstant Permanent Residency |
| Ideal For | Digital Nomads | Digital Nomads | InvestorsHNWI |
How to apply for Virtual Work Programme - Timeline
Submit Application
Apply online or visit an Amer Center, such as Amer247, to begin the process.
Complete Medical Test
Attend a scheduled medical test, choosing between VIP or Normal service, which is completed in one day.
Biometrics Appointment
Book and attend your biometrics appointment at the scheduled time, depending on available slots.
Visa Stamping
Return to the Amer Center for visa stamping, where your digital visa will be issued.
Receive Emirates ID
Your Emirates ID will be delivered to you by courier after processing.
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
Similar Programs in Other Countries
GeorgiaDigital Nomad Visa
Best For:
Georgia Digital Nomad Visa allows you to obtain a Temporary Residency by showing you have an employment or enough funds to support yourself.
SpainDigital Nomad Visa
Best For:
Spain digital nomad visa is fast, simple and cheap way to get EU residence permit.
