Details of the Freelance Visa in the UAE

The UAE government has always welcomed massive talents to the country and with the introduction of the new visa rule, this is only going to improve. While the Golden Visa has wooed many celebrated talents to the State, UAE has also introduced the Freelance Visa where even freelancers can live in the country and work from here, without the need of having a sponsor.

Freelancing is a work arrangement where a person generates income by offering services that match their skills for a specific period of time. This is not a 9-5 job and will be provided to individuals or establishment and the person offering services wouldn’t be considered an employee of the individual or establishment. With a freelance visa, people who are willing to undertake self-employment can avail a visa to live in the UAE without being sponsored by an employer or organisation. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism or free zone authorities in Dubai should be contacted for issuing freelance permit.

To obtain the freelance work permit, the basic requirement is to submit the following documents:

• Copy of your passport
• Professional qualification certificate duly notarised and attested by a relevant authority in the country where the certificate is issued.
• Health insurance
• Medical fitness tests
• Payment of the fee
• Establishment card, if any
• Passport photograph

Professionals can apply through gofreelance.ae for a one-year visa for AED2,750 and a three-year visa for AED5,000.