How to obtain a freelance visa Dubai?
Do you want to achieve your professional goals with utmost flexibility and high quality of life? If yes, then certainly a freelance visa Dubai is the best option for you. It gives you freedom to continue working with any company you like without following a boring 9 to 5 job cycle.
Prospr wants you to pave the path of ultimate success in your freelancing career and thereby we have brought a comprehensive guide about freelance visas in Dubai.
Whether you want to know the eligibility criteria, cost of freelance dubai visa or the process, we have compiled everything at one place. So, you can dive into this post and get answers to all the questions you have.
But first thing first, let’s understand:
What is a freelance license/work permit?
It is a license that allows you to work as a freelance professional. This permit identifies you as a sole practitioner. You can conduct business with your birth name instead of the usual brand name. You can register for a freelance license in Dubai at Dubai Development Authority website.
If you are interested in getting a freelance work permit in Dubai, you will pay around AED 7500. You will apply online and service is available 24/7.
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How to apply for a freelance license in Dubai?
1- You will visit FZ business communities website and you will setup a profile as a freelancer
2-Fill Out the application form
3-Upload following required documents
- Valid passport copy of applicant with Residence Visa Page (if any)
- NOC from external authorities
- Self-Declaration Form (applicable if holds a valid visa)
- Proof of address
- Professional qualifications and experience certificates
- Business plan
- Visa copy (if applicable
4-Pay the avoid by using available payment method
5-Submit your application
After that you will wait. Estimated time to deliver a freelance license is 2-4 days.
NOC- You need to furnish a No-objection certificate from your current employer, if you are employed.
Types of freelance visa in Dubai
There are different types of freelance visas in Dubai, as per the latest updates announced by the government.
Freelance visa and work permit for Dubai residents
A Dubai resident can apply for a freelance visa. Applicants can get freelance work permits even when he is fully applied. In that scenario, it’s essential to provide NOC from your employer (if you are employed), or from your parent, spouse (when you are unemployed).
Freelance visa and work permit for non-resident
In case you are a foreigner who is planning to get a freelance visa in Dubai for getting residency and work permit then you can get a freelance visa and permit. It allows you to live and work in Dubai as a freelancer.
Dubai Talent Pass
The Dubai talent pass is an initiative taken by The Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA), Dubai Culture and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs. The purpose of launching this visa is to attract global talent.
Freelancers from the field of consultancy, art, media, marketing, culture and education can apply for this visa.
Cost of The Dubai Talent Pass is AED 9500; you will renew your visa every year. The cost of renewal will depend on your work area.
How to get the Dubai Talent Pass:
- Visit the official the official DAFZA website.
- Choose Talent Pass option and sign up
- Fill out the application form
- Pay the fee, wait till your application get authority approval.
Go Freelance
Another way to live like a freelancer in Dubai is to make the most of the Go Freelance program. This program allows you to work as a freelancer in Dubai Design District, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City and Dubai Knowledge Park.
You can bid on the Go Freelance platform and then win projects. This type of visa make it easy for you to get involved in certain tech, design, media and educational application.
How to apply for Go Freelance program:
- Visit the official GoFreelance website
- Choose apply option
- Fill out an application form with your name, contact number, email, and other details.
- Submit the application and wait for approval
The cost of a GoFreelance work permit in Dubai is AED 7500. You need to renew this visa every year.
Green Residence for Freelancing
Another type of Freelance visa Dubai is known as UAE Green Visa for freelancer and self-employed individuals. This visa allows you to become a resident of Dubai for almost 5 years, and yes you can renew this visa after that time.
The biggest plus of the Green Freelancer UAE visa is that it doesn’t require you to have a job at a company or provide sponsor details.
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The eligibility criteria requires you to:
- Get self-employment or freelance permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- You must have a bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma
- You need to give an annual income proof of AED 360,000 via self-employed for over two years or otherwise you will provide some proof of financial solvency during their stay in Dubai.
How to apply for Green Freelancer visa
- Visit the official GDRFA website
- Log in with UAE Pass
- Fill out the form
- Pay the cost of visa
- And wait till you get approval
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Benefits of freelance visa Dubai
Here are some benefits that makes freelance visa a great business opportunity for everyone:
Flexibility
The biggest attraction of a freelance visa is that you can work from anywhere and anytime. There is no need to stick with one company or workspace, when you can work on multiple projects.
No work setup cost
As a freelancer, you can offer your services to anyone without setting up your business in Dubai. Unlike other visas that require physical space, a freelance visa doesn’t have any such restriction at all. You can run your freelance business in Dubai with a virtual office. As there is no setup or office cost, you can offer your services at the most affordable price.
No income tax
Another reason that makes a UAE freelance visa a great work opportunity is no income tax. You don’t pay any kind of tax. Even when you setup your business, you won’t pay corporate tax unless your yearly revenue exceed from AED 375,000. Understand: How to register for Corporate Tax in Dubai
Family sponsor
Once you have a freelance visa in your hand, you can easily sponsor your family and dependents. However, unlike investment or business visa, freelance visa does not permit you to sponsor any employee for your freelance business.
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Lots of business opportunities
No matter what field you belong to as a freelancer, Dubai offers a lot of business and network opportunities. This city is a hub of expat. You can work with companies and entrepreneurs who might be interested in your specific skill set. Besides, the pay rate is good in Dubai.
Let Prospr help you get your freelance visa Dubai
We have explained different types of freelance visas in Dubai alongside the cost of freelance work permits. As an outsider, you might feel it a bit overwhelming to arrange all the required documents and provide income and other proof. In that scenario, our business consultants in Dubai hold your hand and guide you through the process. If you need help regarding freelance visa in Dubai or any other visa or business setup, feel free to contact us. Our email id is hello@prosprplus.ae.
FAQs
How much is a 2 year freelance visa in Dubai?
If you want to acquire a 2-year freelance visa in Dubai then charges are AED 5,000. For a one-year freelance visa, you will pay AED 2750. There will be additional charges of AED 2000 for the Establishment card.
How much income is required for a freelance visa in Dubai?
If you want to obtain a freelance visa in Dubai, then you must prove that you have generated no less than 360,000AED in the last two years. Beside, you must hold at least a bachelor’s degree or specialist diploma.
Can I live in Dubai with a freelance visa?
Yes, you can live in Dubai with your freelance visa.
Can I get an Emirates ID on a freelance visa?
Yes, you can get an Emirates ID on a freelance visa, which is your resident plus work permit. You can work and live freely all over Dubai and once you have an Emirates ID, you can open a bank account.