Dubai is becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for entrepreneurs and independent professionals, thanks to its modern infrastructure, growing economy, and attractive tax benefits.
However, can non-citizens legally live and work as freelancers in Dubai? Yes, but they need a valid Dubai freelance visa.
What is a Dubai freelance visa? How to apply? How much does it cost? Let us find out.
Key Takeaways
- Dubai freelance visa enables non-citizens to legally live and work in the UAE as independent professionals without employer sponsorship.
- Applicants must meet eligibility criteria such as age (18+), a valid passport, a degree/diploma, an MOHRE permit, and medical fitness.
- The application process involves choosing a sector, applying through a free zone, securing a permit, an establishment card, medical tests, and an Emirates ID.
Table of contents
What is a Dubai Freelance Visa?
Dubai Freelance Visa is a permit that allows individuals to live and work legally in the UAE as freelancers or independent professionals.
The visa gives non-citizens the right to freelance across various sectors, including technology, media, education, consultancy, and design, without requiring sponsorship from an employer.
It also offers flexibility to work with multiple clients. Valid for one to two years, the visa requires annual renewals.
Read: Millionaires in Dubai – What Makes the City a Global Hub for the Rich?
Who is Eligible for a Dubai Freelance Visa?
To be eligible for a Dubai Freelance Visa, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Must be above 18 years old
- Must have a freelance work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE)
- Must have a valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- Must hold a university degree or diploma, depending on the sector
- Must possess expertise, knowledge, or experience in the relevant sector
- Must have passed the medical fitness tests
- Must not have any criminal background
Points to Keep in Mind while Applying for a Dubai Freelance Visa?
Here are a few points to keep in mind while applying for your Dubai freelance visa:
1: Choose Your Sector
Choose the sector in which you want to freelance, such as education, media, design, technology, or consultancy.
2: Select a Free Zone to Apply
Dubai offers freelance licenses through designated free zones, with each free zone having its own list of permitted freelance activities. So, you must select the one that aligns with your profession and apply through that zone.
Some popular free zones include Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, and Dubai Design District.
3: Keep the Required Documents Handy
Ensure you have all the required documents with correct and updated information. You need to submit these documents along with your application. The list of documents includes a copy of passport with at least 6 months’ validity, recent passport-sized photographs, academic certificates, proof of work experience, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer (if currently employed), an updated CV, etc.
4: Apply for a Freelance Permit
Apply for a freelance permit online from the selected free zone’s official website. Upload the required documents and pay the permit fee. A freelance permit allows you to work legally as a freelancer in the UAE.
5: Apply for an Establishment Card
After obtaining the permit, you must apply for an establishment card, which is required for obtaining a residency visa, depending on the free zone.
6: Submit Your Visa Application
Submit the visa application form along with the required documents through the free zone portal. Pay the visa fees. You may need to attend a short interview.
7: Medical Tests, Emirates ID
Undergo medical fitness tests, biometrics, and apply for an Emirates ID. After you pass the medical tests and your application gets approved, the visa will be issued. You can now legally live and work as a freelancer in the UAE.
How Much Does a Dubai Freelance Visa Cost?
The cost of a freelance visa depends on many factors – the duration and type of visa, the free zone through which you apply, additional services, etc.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost:
| Type | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Freelance Permit | 7,500 |
| Establishment Card | 2,000 |
| Employment Visa | 3,000 – 7,000 |
| Residence Visa | 3,330 – 6,300 |
| Medical Fitness Tests | 260 – 360 |
| Emirates ID | approx. 100 per year |
| Medical Insurance (optional) | 600 – 1,200 |
| Source | https://dda.gov.ae/ |
What are the Documents Required for a Freelance Visa in Dubai?
While applying for a freelance visa, you need to submit the following documents:
- Duly filled visa application form
- Valid passport copy with a minimum validity of 6 months
- Freelance permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE)
- Recent passport-sized photographs with the required specifications
- Proof of relevant work experience, such as an employment letter or work-related documents
- Updated CV
- Portfolio or samples of work, depending on your field
- Educational certificates
- Proof of annual income of at least AED 360,000 from self-employment in the past two years
- Reports of medical tests
- Health insurance details
- No-objection certificate (NOC) from the employer if you are currently employed
- Police clearance certificate to show you have no criminal record in your home country
Dubai Visa Application Agencies in India
| City | Agency / Consultant | Address / Area | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangalore | World Visa Consultants (World Visa Group) | Manipal Center, S-101,First Floor, South, 47, Dickenson Rd, Sivanchetti Gardens, Bengaluru - 560042 | +91 70220 90909 |
| Mumbai | Alliance Recruitment Services LLP (Alliance Services) | Alliance Recruitment Services LLP 510/5th Flr, Sai Chamber, Near Best Bus Depot, Santacruz East, Mumbai - 400055 | +91 75064 09888 |
| Delhi | 99Country | 3066, Charke Walan Chowk, Chowri Bazar, Delhi - 11006 | +91 78990 66666 |
| Chennai | Sri Bala Travels Services | 38/7, Welcome Colony, Anna Nagar West, Chennai-600101 | +91 99404 99345 |
Make the Most of Your Dubai Freelance Visa
Dubai freelance visa offers a wonderful opportunity for entrepreneurs or self-employed individuals to legally live and work as freelancers in the UAE. With numerous business opportunities, flexible work conditions, and tax benefits, Dubai can be the best destination for people looking to work independently.
FAQS
The maximum validity of a Dubai freelance visa is two years, depending on the free zone. It needs to be renewed annually.
No, you don’t need an employer or sponsor. You can apply for the visa through any of the free zones, which issue freelance permits.
Yes, you can work with multiple clients without being tied to a single employer. However, the work should be within the scope of your licensed activity.
Yes, absolutely. You can sponsor your spouse, children, and dependents, but you must meet the minimum salary requirements as set by the UAE government.
Also Read
- Different Types Of Visas To The UAE (United Arab Emirates)
- 10 Best Places To Visit in Dubai
- Getting Around Dubai – Transport Tips For Tourists
- Top 10 Countries Where You Can Immigrate and Settle Easily
- 16 Countries Offering Citizenship Through Investment
