Dubai is indeed an excellent option to live and work in by virtue of its low tax rates for company setup and business establishment, making it attractive for freelancers as well. They can efficiently complete their tasks and explore the country during their free time by visiting famous places in the UAE.
However, it’s important to obtain a freelancer visa in Dubai if you’re planning to avail all the luxurious benefits. Therefore, understanding the complete process of obtaining a Dubai Freelance visa is essential.
Undoubtedly, Dubai has emerged as one of the thriving hubs for freelancers due to the abundance of Job Opportunities in the market.
What Is Meant by a Freelance Visa Or A Freelance Permit In Dubai?
The terms freelance permit and freelance visa are used interchangeably by different individuals to obtain authorization for Remote Work or freelancing, whether through popular platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or direct clients in Dubai and the UAE. After receiving a Dubai Freelance visa, individuals can stay and, depending on the type of visa, work in various fields.
Dubai Freelance Visa Requirements
Interestingly, a freelance visa in Dubai not only allows individuals to live and work as freelancers and independent contractors but also serves as a residency permit, enabling visa holders to sponsor their family members. However, the eligibility criteria include:
- You must be at least 18 years old with a valid passport and a clean criminal record from your country.
- Minimum 2 years of experience as a freelancer in your specialized field.
- Proof of educational qualifications with a degree or diploma in your field.
- Minimum annual earnings of AED 360,000.
- Submission of a fitness certificate at the time of visa application.
Moreover, to apply for the UAE Freelance Visa, you need to submit an updated CV, passport photos, your proof of income, and educational certificates. If you work on top platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, you can obtain evidence of earnings certificates directly from your profiles with just one click. So, if you have all these documents, then you can apply for your freelance visa today.
Dubai Freelance Visa Cost
The cost of a freelance visa in Dubai is approximately AED 7,500, whether you are applying for it for the first time or renewing it. In addition to this cost, you will also need to cover medical charges, establishment card fees, and entry permit fees, totalling around AED 20,000 for the entire process. However, overall, the freelance visa is considered affordable and worthwhile for staying and continuing work in this emerging country.
Complete the Process of To Get a Freelance Visa in Dubai
Here are the four levels to obtain a freelance visa in Dubai:
- Basic Visa: Valid for 1 year, allows freelancers to renew after the first year.
- Year Visa: Available for freelancers who prefer a more extended validity period.
- Year Visa: Another option for freelancers seeking a medium-term visa.
- Green Visa (5-Year Visa): Provides the most extended validity for freelancers.
After receiving the visa, there is a 180-day window to enter Dubai; otherwise, the visa will be canceled, and the application process must be restarted.
Now, let’s move towards the complete process of obtaining this freelance visa in Dubai:
Visit DED Website
Visit the DED website and submit your application with complete details as requested. You will then receive a 1-year freelance work permit for the UAE.
Apply for Establishment Card
In the 2nd step, you need to apply for the establishment card so that DED can register your freelance activity.
Obtain Entry Permit
In the 3rd step, you need to obtain an entry permit, which will be granted once you have submitted the establishment card and mandatory documents.
Undergo Medical Test
After completing the 3rd step and arriving in the country, you need to undergo a medical test at an approved medical center in Dubai.
Submit Documents
Finally, after completing all these steps, submit all necessary documents to obtain a 3-year renewable freelance residency visa by following the guidance of DED.
Benefits of a Freelance Visa UAE
There are numerous unique benefits of a freelance visa in the UAE. Firstly, you gain official resident status in the country, allowing you to live and work legally at your convenience with flexible hours.
Moreover, you can rent property, open a business account in the UAE, Sponsor Your Family, enroll your children in school, and even purchase a car to start your own business. You’ll pay very low taxes as compared to the UK, USA and Australia.
Types of Freelance Visas in Dubai
There are many types of visas that come under the freelance visa, but the most common are the following:
Freelance Visa for Media: This requires a portfolio of work from the media sector while applying.
Freelance Visa for Education: Tutors and e-learning advisors can apply with proof of work.
Freelance Visa for Design: Graphic designers, interior designers, and jewellery designers fall under this category.
Final Thoughts
If you’re working as a freelancer with a good record of earnings and meeting the eligibility criteria mentioned above, you should apply to secure a Dubai Freelance visa. With this work visa, you can not only work independently with flexible hours but also sponsor your family members and secure the future of your children.
You can apply for a 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, or 5-year visa as per your choice, enabling you to do many things like setting up your own business agency and buying property.
However, if you’re looking for a smooth and successful visa processing experience, look no further than the professionals at Alriyady Dubai. Not only will you have a successful application process, but you’ll also receive professional guidance for your future.
