If you plan to work as a freelancer in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), obtaining a freelance visa is a must-do step. This visa not only allows you to work legally but also provides you with opportunities to expand your business or services. In this article, we will provide you with complete information regarding the freelance visa, including its types, benefits, requirements, costs, and application steps.
What is a freelance visa?
A freelance visa is a special type of residency visa that allows you to provide independent professional services in the UAE. This visa is ideal for individuals who want to work with different clients rather than working under a single employer. The UAE government has introduced this visa for professionals who provide creative, technical, or consulting services.
According to Planuae, the majority of individuals from Pakistan, India, and other Asian countries are expected to face a significantly high rejection rate for various applications, with the probability of rejection reaching as much as 90% in the year 2025.
Types of Freelance Visas
There are two basic types of freelance visas in the UAE:
1. Freelance Work Permit
This visa allows you to work as a freelancer under a company. If you plan to freelance through a free zone, you will need to obtain a free zone work permit.
2. Freelance License
This license allows you to offer your services without the sponsorship of a company or organization. You can obtain this license from various free zones such as Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, or Dubai Design District.
Benefits of Freelance Visa
There are numerous benefits to obtaining a UAE freelance visa:
- Legal Status: This visa gives you the right to work legally in the UAE.
- Autonomy: You can choose your working hours and clients as you wish.
- Low Cost: It is less expensive than a traditional business license.
- Family Sponsorship: You can also sponsor your family.
- Visa Duration: Freelance visas are usually issued for a period of 1 to 3 years.
Eligibility Criteria
To obtain a UAE freelance visa, you must meet the following requirements:
Professional Experience: You must have relevant experience in your chosen field.
Educational Qualifications: You must have relevant educational qualifications, which must be attested.
Portfolio: You must have a sample or proof of your work.
Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
Financial Stability: You must have sufficient resources to cover the cost of the visa.
Documents Required for Freelance Visa
- Copy of Passport
- Recent Passport Size Photograph
- Certified Copies of Educational Qualifications
- Professional Resume (CV)
- Work Portfolio
- Bank Statement (if required)
Freelance Visa Cost
The cost of a freelance visa varies depending on the different free zones and the services you choose. Typically, this cost ranges from AED 7,500 to AED 20,000, which may include the following:
Freelance License Fee: AED 6,100 to AED 7,500 (depending on the free zone and activity type)
Medical Test Fee: AED 300 to AED 500
Emirates ID Fee: AED 370 (for a 1-year visa)
Visa Stamping Fee: AED 3,330 (for applicants outside UAE) and AED 4,960 (for applicants within UAE)
These fees are approximate and may vary based on the chosen free zone and additional services. Always confirm with the relevant authorities for the most accurate details.
If you are going for a second time to UAE, you must check the Emirates ID fine and then apply it. If you have a fine, you should pay it and then check whether is there any issue or not.
Application Method
1. Choose a Free Zone:
First, decide which free zone you want to obtain a freelance license from.
2. Submit Application Form:
Fill out the application form on the website of the selected free zone and upload the required documents.
3. Pay Fee:
Submit the required fee along with the application.
4. Undergo Medical Test:
After the application is approved, undergo a medical test.
5. Apply for Emirates ID:
Apply for Emirates ID after the medical test.
6. Visa Stamping:
Finally, the visa will be stamped on your passport.
In which free zones are freelance licenses available?
Several free zones in the UAE offer freelance licenses:
- Dubai Media City (DMC): Best for creative sectors.
- Dubai Internet City (DIC): Best for IT professionals.
- Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority: For cultural and tourism services.
- Fujairah Creativity City: For media and creative professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is full-time employment allowed with a freelance visa?
No, the freelance visa is only for independent work.
Can I renew the visa?
Yes, the visa is usually renewable.
Can I sponsor my family?
Yes, you can sponsor your family.
Conclusion
The UAE freelance visa gives you a golden opportunity to work as an independent professional. Through it, you can use your skills and work with a variety of clients. If you want to increase your income through freelancing, the UAE is an ideal location for you.
You can also read latest Visa information from Govt sources:
https://adro.gov.ae/Visas/Types-of-Visas/Abu-Dhabi-Green-Visa/Freelancers
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/residence-visas/residence-visa-for-working-in-the-uae