Getting a Freelance Visa in Dubai

Author

Ahmad

Tax and Fiscal Specialist

From its bustling freelance scene to state-of-the-art infrastructure, Dubai has freelancers flocking. But before jetting off on a remote work adventure, it’s crucial to have your paperwork in order. 

​​This blog aims to ease the admin headaches with a guide to the different types of visas for freelancers in Dubai.

To help with your relocation to-do list, we’ll walk you through:

• Visa eligibility requirements
• Application processes
• Dubai free zones 
• Associated costs

Let’s get started.

Unveiling the Dream: Working and Living in Dubai

Dubai has become an aspirational hotspot that attracts hordes of talented freelancers worldwide.

The city’s infrastructure is a major selling point. Independent consultants are drawn to its impressive array of coworking spaces that cater to all work styles. 

Dubai also boasts a ton of networking opportunities and industry events. Plus a dynamic business culture that creates countless opportunities for ambitious professionals. The city’s tax-free income policy is the cherry on top for freelancers keen to boost their income. 

Besides professional perks, independent consultants are also attracted to Dubai’s quality of life. Year-round sunshine and a vibrant social scene provides the perfect backdrop for a healthy work-life balance. 

Navigating the Visa Landscape: Your Options

If you’re sold on living and working in Dubai, the next steps are to look into visa requirements. 

In this section, we will guide you through the options available to freelancers. 

Freelance Work Permit UAE

Also known as the ‘Freelance Work Visa Dubai’, this is the most common visa for the self-employed. It allows foreign nationals to work independently in Dubai and covers the majority of freelance professions. 

The freelance visa is the best option for independent consultants who wish to service multiple clients without setting up a company. 

Visa eligibility requirements

To apply for a freelance work visa, you must: 

• Be 18 or over 
• Have a valid passport 
• Have educational certificates or professional qualifications
• Have prior experience (including a portfolio of work) in your freelance field
• Earn AED 360,000 (circa £77,500/$98,000) per year or prove that you can cover living costs
• Clear a medical fitness test
• Have no criminal record 

Applying for a visa

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a freelance work visa: 

1. Get your documents in order: As part of your application you need to send copies of the following: 

• Valid passport
• Passport-size photos
• Professional qualifications or certifications
• CV
• Portfolio of work
• Bank statements or proof of financial stability
• A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the current employer (if you have worked in Dubai before)

2. Choose a free zone: Dubai has over 30 free zones. These are special economic areas designed to attract entrepreneurs and freelancers.

Getting a freelance visa in one of the free zones tends to be more straightforward than on the mainland.

Each free zone caters to specific industries. This means some research to select a free zone that fits best with your freelance business and goals. 

3. Submit an online application: Once you’ve chosen a free zone, visit their official website and fill in the visa application form. 

Or, you can apply through gofreelance.ae.

Don’t forget to attach the relevant documents with all online applications (see step 1). 

4. Pay application fees: The freelance visa costs around AED 7,500 (circa £1,600/$2,000), with an annual renewal rule. Be aware that fees may vary based on your chosen free zone. 

5. Application assessment: The authority of the free zone will assess your application. This can take up to several weeks. In some cases, you will need to submit more information or attend an interview. 

6. Approval: As soon as you receive an approval email you are able to enter the UAE and finalise the visa process.

7. Medical Examination and Emirates ID: Some free zones need you to have a medical certificate. If this applies to you, you can undergo a medical examination in Dubai and obtain your Emirates ID. 

8. Start freelancing: As soon as your Dubai freelance work visa is approved you can start freelancing from your new UAE desk! 

It’s also a good idea to get yourself up to speed with the visa renewal process to make sure your freelance visa stays valid. 

The Green Residence Visa

The Green Residence Visa is a recent initiative that offers self-employed professionals a 5-year residency permit for Dubai. 

As the pathway to a longer stay, this visa allows for greater stability. It gives freelancers the opportunity to establish a thriving business over an extended period of time. 

Holders of the green residence visa may also be entitled to sponsor family members. This includes spouses, children, and first-degree relatives. 

Visa eligibility requirements

To apply for a green residence visa, you need to submit: 

• A freelance/self-employment permit from Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE)
• Proof of a bachelor’s degree or a specialised diploma
• Evidence of annual self-employed income for the previous two years amounting to no less than AED 360,000 (circa £77,500/$98,000). Or proof of financial solvency throughout your stay in the UAE.

Applying for a visa

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a green residence visa: 

1. Get your documents in order: As part of your application you need to send copies of the following: 

• Valid passport
• Passport-size photos
• Professional qualifications or certifications
• Medical certificates 
• Proof of employment or freelancing permit from MOHRE
• Bank statements or proof of financial stability

2. Submit an online application: Fill in the form for an entry permit for green residence (self-employment). You can do this via the Dubai Government website. 

You must provide your name, Emirates ID number, residential address, and passport details. 

Don’t forget to attach the relevant documents with all online applications (see step 1). 

3. Pay application fees: The cost of the green residence visa is around AED 2,280 (circa £500/$620). 

4. Application assessment: Once your application has been submitted, you wait for the visa to be processed. You should receive notifications about your application status.

5. Visa approval: If your application is approved, you will receive email confirmation of your residency. 

Benefits Beyond the Visa

Freelance-Friendly Free Zones

As mentioned earlier in the blog, Dubai’s free zones are designed to boost business activity in the city. 

Each free zone is tailored to cater to specific industries such as technology, finance, media, or healthcare, providing industry-specific infrastructure and resources. 

There are some major benefits to setting up your freelance business within a free zone. 

Let’s take a look: 

Complete foreign ownership:

Forming a company within a free zone allows 100% foreign business ownership. This means not needing a UAE national sponsor to form a business. 

Tax benefits:

Setting up as a freelancer in a free zone also means you enjoy a tax exemption on both income tax and personal tax. 

Business-friendly infrastructure:

Free zones support entrepreneurs and self-employed businesses. They are collaborative environments that offer plenty of coworking spaces and networking opportunities.

Making the Move Seamless with Hightekers

Working remotely from Dubai is an exciting prospect that can bring huge opportunities. But there is important paperwork to get in order and many other factors to consider. 

This is where Hightekers comes in. 

We can support your relocation to the UAE and enhance your professional journey. 

Here’s how we make a difference: 

Simplify your relocation: We take time-consuming paperwork off your desk. Hightekers handle your visa application, work permit, Emirates ID, and all necessary paperwork.

Local contract: Our local contract solution removes the need to create a company or set up freelance status in Dubai. Hightekers act as your employer and we establish service agreements with your clients. This means you simply land your project and let us do the rest. 

Global clientele, local advantage: Partnering with Hightekers means keeping your international clients while being 100% compliant with UAE regulations.

Financial security and freedom: Enjoy peace of mind with guaranteed monthly pay. We’ll also keep things running smoothly with multi-currency invoicing for both local and global clients. 

The best of both worlds: Bask in the perks of full-time employment with health insurance and unemployment benefits. All while retaining your independence as a freelancer.

Tailored support and global network: You will have a dedicated account manager at your side to help with anything you need. Plus access to 1,800+ like-minded professionals for collaboration and knowledge sharing. 

Conclusion: making your dream a reality

Setting up as a freelancer in Dubai is an enticing prospect that promises a world of professional and personal growth.

But, relocating as an independent consultant is a big step. Leaping into the unknown can feel daunting for even the most seasoned nomads among us.

With a long list of things to think about – from visa applications to work permits and free zones – it’s easy to lose sight of your ultimate goal: to thrive in Dubai.

Partnering with a management company like Hightekers means gaining the support you need. We ensure your UAE transition is as smooth and stress-free as it can be. 

By taking care of paperwork and guaranteeing your monthly income, you have the freedom to grow your freelance business. Plus more time to relax and enjoy your new Dubai lifestyle to the max. 

Whether you are seeking a new adventure, personal growth, or a chance to boost your income, Dubai’s freelance scene is ready to welcome you. 

Are you ready to make your dream a reality? 

Discover how Hightekers can support your relocation to Dubai

Author

Ahmad

Tax and Fiscal Specialist

As a tax and fiscal specialist based in Dubai, Ahmad is helping freelancers and professionals navigate the financial landscape of the UAE and beyond. With expertise in international invoicing and tax regulations, Ahmad supports high-skilled independents in managing their finances and growing their careers globally. When he's not advising clients, Ahmad enjoys desert trekking and attending tech innovation events in the city.