Dubai has always been a hub for those looking to set up a business, start a profession, or even work as a freelancer. With the introduction of the Dubai freelance visa, it has become easier for people to accomplish this dream. The government has introduced different categories of freelance visas that attract creative minds from all over the world to the UAE. It allows them to lawfully do business in the UAE and offer professional services to other individuals and companies.
The freelance UAE visa has been a game-changer for expatriates as it opens a world of freelancing opportunities and gives them the freedom to work and live in the city without the need for a local sponsor. However, to obtain this visa, they need to first secure a freelance permit from a designated authority in Dubai. This comprehensive guide will give you an overview of the Dubai freelance visa and how you can obtain it.
Types of Freelance Visa in Dubai
Based on the field of work and specific circumstances, three main types of freelance visas can be issued in Dubai:
Freelance visa and license for residents
For individuals who already have a UAE residence visa through their spouse, parent, or employer.
Freelance visa for non-residents
For individuals who do not have a UAE residence visa and want to work as a freelancer.
Green Residence for freelancing and self-employment
Launched in 2023, this visa allows freelancers to sponsor themselves for 5 years without the need for an employer or a sponsor.
Eligibility for the freelance UAE visa
An individual must fulfill the following prerequisites to qualify for a freelance visa:
- At least 18 years old
- Hold a valid passport with at least 6 months validity from the date of application
- A permit from MoHRE
- A minimum bachelor’s degree or specialist diploma
- An annual income of AED 360,000 for the preceding two years
The requirements may vary depending on the specific free zone authority. Hence, it is better to consult a visa specialist from Shuraa before moving forward.
Documents required for the freelance permit:
- A completed application form
- Passport copy
- Updated CV
- A copy of the Emirates ID (if the applicant is already a UAE resident)
- Academic records certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the UAE Consulate
- Two professional references and their contact details
- Letter of intent/Offer letter stating information about the work history and personal and professional background of the applicant
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor, if necessary
Once the permit is issued, the applicant must provide the approved freelance permit along with the Establishment Card to secure the freelance visa.
Procedure to apply for a Freelance Visa in Dubai
Obtaining a Dubai freelance visa involves several steps
Choose your freelancing activity Identify the specific activity that you want to undertake as a freelancer in Dubai. This will help determine the permits and approvals you would need to legally operate in the city.
Secure a freelance permit A freelance permit in Dubai allows its holders to legally operate their freelance activities. Moreover, they can open a dedicated freelance bank account, issue an invoice, and conduct legal transactions with their clients. The validity of the freelance permit is 1-2 years and can be renewed accordingly.
Additionally, the process of securing a permit differs based on the jurisdiction. For instance, the freelance permit in Dubai mainland is directly issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE), whereas in free zones, it is provided by the chosen free zone authority. The individual must thoroughly research and find a free zone that caters to their freelance activity.
Gather the required documents Prepare and compile all the documents as required by the issuing authority. Also, make sure that they are properly translated and attested.
Apply for NOC Individuals who are residing in Dubai under another visa type such as an employment visa, might require an NOC from their current sponsor.
Undergo the medical test A medical fitness test is mandatory in the Dubai visa application process. Hence, the applicant must undergo this test and obtain health insurance as well.
Get an establishment card To register their freelance business in the region, the applicant needs to apply for an establishment card in Dubai.
Apply for the visa Upon securing the freelance permit, the applicant can now apply for the visa. They can submit their respective applications either to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) or any designated typing center.
Collect the visa Once the application is submitted, wait for its processing. The time of processing may vary depending on specific circumstances. Upon approval, the applicant can collect their visa and proceed with other tasks.
Cost of Freelance Visa in Dubai
There are several components to consider when it comes to calculating the cost of a Dubai Freelance Visa
- Freelance permit
- Establishment card
- Medical fitness test
- Emirates ID
- Health insurance
Reasons to obtain a Dubai Freelance Visa
Giving up a mundane 9 to 5 job and working as a boss is a long-held desire for many individuals. The UAE fulfills this goal by offering freelance visas to individuals. From working on your own terms to balancing work and life together, the Dubai Freelance Visa holds several other advantages.
- Easy to apply – The freelance visa application process is straightforward. The applicant can either directly apply to the free zone authorities or the Department of Economic Development (DED). The entire process takes 7 to 10 days to complete.
- No separate office space required – Freelancers can enjoy location independence in Dubai. This means they do not have to rent office space, instead, they can work from home or anywhere which is convenient for them.
- No hassle of bookkeeping – Accounting and bookkeeping is a time-consuming aspect of running a business. However, self-employed individuals in Dubai do not have to file official accounts or submit to audits. They can concentrate on growing their business profits and creating new job prospects.
- Easy to set up a corporate account – Dubai Freelance Visa enables an easy setup of a corporate account. Many respectable financial institutions in the UAE happily accept independent employees with a legal permit and ID. Individuals can choose an appropriate bank based on their freelancing needs and access its services.
- No sponsorship required – Most free zones in Dubai do not mandate the requirement of a No Objection Certificate (NOC), which is typically issued by a regional sponsor or organization.
- Avail upskilling opportunities – Dubai, a center for innovation and entrepreneurship, allows freelancers to take advantage of workshops, conferences, and online courses so that they can enhance their skills and stay ahead of the curve.
Permissible activities for freelancing in Dubai
An individual is eligible to operate in any of the following sectors or businesses to qualify for a freelance visa in Dubai:
Media
- Actor
- Aerial Shoot Photographer
- Animator
- Artist
- Audio
- Brand Consultant
- Cameraman
- Choreographer
- Commentators
- Composer
- Content Provider
- Copywriter
- Creative Director
Education
- Education Advisor
- eLearning Advisor
- Executive Coaching
- Researcher
- Trainer
Tech
- Architecture Freelancer
- Customer Service Freelancer
- Data Science
- Analytics Freelancer
- IT
- Telecommunication Networking Freelancer
- Software Development
Design
- Apparel Designer
- Concept Designer
- Costume Designer
- Fashion Artist
- Fashion Designer
- Hair Stylist
- Interior Designer
- Image Consultant
- Jewelry Designer
- Make-up Artist
- Object Designer
- Personal Shopper
- Textile Designer
- Visual Merchandiser
- Wedding Planner
Dubai Freelance Visa – Let Shuraa guide you
Collaborate with Shuraa Business Setup, a reputable and reliable business setup organization in the UAE and ensure the proper and valid issuance of your freelance visa in Dubai. Their experts offer various visa options and valuable business support services tailored according to the unique needs of the freelancers.
For more information, contact Shuraa at +971 44081900 or info@shuraa.com.
