Those who want to come to Dubai to start an independent career journey must know about the freelance visa Dubai, a ticket that lets you enjoy and build a promising life in the thriving city of Dubai. Dubai, which has become a center of attraction for businesses, investors, and tourists, also welcomes professionals from diverse fields. For those who do not want to work under traditional employment, freelancing options in the city are worth exploring.
To come and work here as a freelancer, they would need to obtain a freelance permit and freelance visa in Dubai, which allows them to work legally in the city. This article is dedicated to the freelance visa in Dubai, how to get one, and the costs associated with making it yours.
Freelancing sector in UAE
Freelancing is a bustling and growing sector in Dubai. Professionals from various fields such as IT, education, marketing, designing, and accounting are highly sought after by industries and businesses in the city. These professionals, called freelancers, can help their clients with many projects and tasks.
Working as a freelancer in Dubai comes with many benefits too. First of all, you can work as an independent professional and be your own boss without being tied to any employer in Dubai. That means you can work on your terms and conditions, providing you with much more flexibility than regular jobs. You can explore new growth opportunities as you wish and make decisions independently.
Moreover, starting a career as a freelancer does not require as much investment as starting a full-fledged company. You can work with multiple clients at your convenience and earn significant profits. Additionally, Dubai’s top-notch infrastructure, strategic location, and tax advantages make freelancing a thriving opportunity in the city.
Dubai freelance visa
A freelance visa Dubai is a type of residency visa that allows freelancers to live and work in the city legally without relying on a local sponsor. The freelance visa in Dubai typically has a validity of 1 or 2 years.
Many people use “freelance visa” and “freelance permit” interchangeably. However, it is important to understand the difference. A freelance permit is a license issued by the MoHRE or a free zone authority that grants permission to conduct freelance activities in the city. On the other hand, a freelance visa pertains to immigration. It is a visa that allows you to enter the borders of the UAE and stay and work legally.
Eligibility for freelance visa Dubai
Some of the requirements to be met for obtaining a freelance visa Dubai include:
- Age: Minimum 18 years old
- Passport: Must have at least 6 months of validity
- Demonstration of experience and knowledge
- Educational qualifications and certifications
- Minimum income: Depending on the category
- Proof of financial stability
- Passing a medical fitness test
- Clear criminal background
There may be variations in eligibility requirements between free zones and the mainland. It is best to seek advice from professional consultants.
Steps to get freelance visa in Dubai
Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining your freelance visa in Dubai:
1. Choose Your Activity
Determine what type of activities you would like to carry out as a freelancer. Make sure the activity you choose is permitted by the DED (Department of Economic Development).
2. Choose Your Location
Decide whether you want to work on the mainland or in a Dubai free zone. Each zone has its own benefits and legal procedures. Conduct thorough research before selecting one that suits you.
3. Gather the Documents
Collect all the necessary documents for your freelance visa application, such as your passport, educational certificates, and any other required documents.
4. Obtain an NOC
If you are already on a different visa, you will need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the sponsor of your current visa. For example, if you are on an employment visa, the NOC must be provided by your current sponsor.
5. Get Your Freelance Permit
A freelance permit is an official license required to carry out any freelancing activity in the city.
- For the mainland: The freelance permit is issued directly by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE).
- For free zones: The respective free zone authority will issue the permit.
6. Open a Business Bank Account
Open a corporate bank account to manage and track your freelancing income effectively.
7. Apply for an Establishment Card
Apply for an establishment card through the designated channels. This card is issued against your company registration.
8. Undergo a Medical Test
As part of the visa processing, you must pass a medical fitness test and also obtain health insurance.
9. Apply for the Freelance Visa Dubai
Apply for the residence visa through the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) or a designated service center. Submit your application and pay the necessary fees.
10. Visa Approval
Once your application is reviewed and approved, your freelance visa for Dubai will be successfully granted to you.
Green visa for freelancers
A green visa in Dubai lets the freelancers and self-employed individuals enjoy up to 5 years of residency in the city. This visa does not need to have any local sponsors. However, there may be certain conditions that must be met. First, the applicant must obtain a freelance permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. He needs to have a minimum bachelor’s degree or a specialized diploma. Also, a minimum annual income of AED 360,000 via self-employment for the last 2 years is needed.
Cost of Dubia freelance visa
The cost of a 2-year freelance visa in Dubai generally ranges between AED 14,170* and AED 25,000*. However, note that the cost may vary based on the selected jurisdiction, type of visa, and other factors. It is best to consult professional experts in the area for accurate freelance visa Dubai cost.
Start your freelancing journey in Dubai
A freelance visa Dubai is a key to starting a promising journey in the city. Working with multiple clients without being under an employee brings a sense of freedom along with flexibility. If you are looking to set up a freelance business in Dubai, then we recommend getting in touch with Dubiz Business Setup. There are professional business setup consultants in UAE known for their comprehensive and cost-effective company formation services. They take care of each aspect of company setup in UAE be it trade license, visas, corporate bank account opening and more. Contact them today for your needs!
