Dubai is an attractive hub for freelancers from all over the world. The economic prosperity and the diversity of the labour market offer numerous opportunities. An essential element for freelancers in Dubai is the need to apply for an appropriate freelancer visa. In this text, we will give you an overview of the necessary conditions and the visa application process.
What is a freelancer visa or a freelancer permit in Dubai?
The UAE Freelancer Visa and Dubai Freelancer Permit 2024 are special permits that allow individuals to legally work as freelancers in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. These permits authorise non-citizens to work independently in the UAE. However, they must fulfil specific criteria and adhere to the applicable rules. Freelancers can work in various sectors such as media, education, design and others. The prerequisite for this is that they fulfil the requirements of the UAE government and the relevant free zone authorities.
Dubai 2024: Freelancer permits for all!
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) offers freelancer permits for anyone who wants to work independently in the UAE. The permit allows you to work from anywhere in the UAE or even globally.
In 2024, Dubai will offer a variety of new freelance visas that fulfil a wide range of professional requirements. These visas will allow freelancers to work independently and within the law in the city. Available categories include:
Freelance work permit:
The freelancer visa in Dubai is the ideal solution for foreign nationals who wish to work independently in many professional fields, such as writing, graphic design, web development and more. This visa is the perfect choice for people who want to offer their services independently without having to set up their own business.
Investor/freelancer visa:
Dubai offers an investor/freelancer visa that links freelancer status to an investment in a business in one of Dubai's free zones. When setting up a business in a free zone, you will receive a freelancer visa, which gives you the flexibility to manage your freelance work within your business.
Visa for freelancers in the media sector:
This visa is perfect for professionals in the media and creative industries such as journalists, photographers and content writers. It is tailored to the needs of people working in these fields and offers them the opportunity to develop in Dubai's dynamic media landscape.
Dubai Virtual Company Licence
The Dubai Virtual Company Licence is an innovative solution for freelancers who want to establish an online presence in Dubai without the need for a physical office space. This option enables entrepreneurs and freelancers to work digitally and connect with clients and partners in Dubai and beyond.
Freelance licence for women:
Dubai has introduced special freelancer licences that are tailored to women. This encourages female entrepreneurs and freelancers. The unique benefits and support systems of these permits encourage women to pursue their freelance ambitions.
Tech Freelancer Visa (potential):
Dubai is planning to introduce a tech freelancer visa to attract talent from the technology industry. Although this visa is not yet available at the time of writing, you should keep an eye on developments in this area. This will open up new opportunities for technology professionals.
The most important advantages of a visa for freelancers in Dubai
Find out what advantages you have as a holder of a freelance visa in Dubai. Secure your freelance visa for Dubai now and benefit from a range of advantages:
Flexibility
Flexibility is one of the biggest advantages of freelancing in Dubai. You are in charge of your own time and can take control of your career. There is no strict 9-to-5 schedule and no obligation to work for just one company or person.
Low investment:
Another advantage of self-employment is that you don't have to make large investments in fixed assets or bear high operating costs. You can work from home, which means you don't have to buy or rent an office or commute to work. Entering the freelance market is significantly cheaper than setting up a company.
Family sponsorship
Once you have obtained a freelancer visa in Dubai, you can sponsor your family members or spouse to live with you in your flat. However, it is not possible to sponsor your employees on a freelance visa.
How to apply for a visa for freelancers in Dubai
Apply for your visa for freelancers in Dubai easily by following the steps below:
- Visit the official Dubai Visit Visa Online website or email contact@dubaivisitvisa.online for the necessary information and resources.
- Contact the dedicated team who will advise and support you personally throughout the entire application process.
- Fill out the visa application form with accurate information and make sure it matches your profession and business objectives.
- Submit your application for a freelance visa to Dubai online. Our Dubai Visit Visa Online team will review your documents and assist you with all further steps to secure your Dubai freelance visa.
Required documents
As a freelancer in Dubai, you do not need any specific prior knowledge. All you need to do is compile certain documents and apply for a freelancer visa in Dubai with Freelancer Visa Dubai.
- Passport copies (of yourself and any family members)
- Photos in passport photo size
- Proof of education or professional qualifications
- Portfolio that shows your work
- Business plan with a detailed description of your freelance activities
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) if you are currently employed in the UAE
- Documents on health insurance cover
The guarantee declaration for a freelancer visa in Dubai
For people moving to Dubai to join a spouse or partner or for full-time employment, a guarantee or a No Objection Certificate (NOC) is essential. Entrepreneurs can obtain the certificate through their own company. This certificate is a formal confirmation from a legal entity or employer confirming their approval and support for the person's stay in Dubai. It is mandatory for anyone who is not solely dependent on family or full-time employment. Entrepreneurs can obtain the NOC from their registered company, enabling a smoother process for their establishment and contribution to Dubai's dynamic business landscape.
Costs for a Dubai visa for freelancers 2024
The costs for a freelance visa in 2024 are made up of four different items that you need to consider when applying for and extending your freelance visa.
1. authorisation for freelancers:
The visa for freelancers in Dubai costs AED 7,500 for issuance and renewal, with annual renewal required.
2. branch card:
The establishment card in Dubai costs AED 2,000 for both issuance and renewal. You must renew this card annually.
3. work visa
The work visa in Dubai is available in two variants: a 3-year visa costs AED 2,750, a 5-year visa costs AED 5,000. You must renew these visas every 3 or 5 years.
4. residence visa:
- The cost of a residence visa (valid for 3 years) from outside the UAE is AED 3,330 for normal processing and AED 3,900 for express processing.
- If you are applying for a residence visa (valid for 3 years) from within the UAE, the cost is AED 4,960 for the normal processing option and AED 6,340 for the express processing option.
Please note that the fees for a visa for freelancers in Dubai may change from time to time.
Dubai Talent Pass and its costs
The Dubai Talent Pass is a worthwhile investment.
In Dubai, freelancers can obtain a Talent Pass licence that allows them to work in different regions of the UAE for a minimum of three years. Launched by the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) in January 2022, this initiative aims to attract skilled individuals from around the world to the country to encourage long-term engagement.
It is important to clarify that obtaining a licence does not automatically grant a visa. Eligibility for a Talent Pass licence is conditional on obtaining a three-year residence visa. In this guide, we will first explain the process for obtaining the licence and the benefits associated with it. We will then go into the finer points of the visa application.
The fee for the Talent Pass licence is AED 9,500 (approximately $ 2,600). It is important to note that the licence must be renewed annually. The exact cost of renewing the Dubai freelancer visa is not explicitly stated, but it is certainly lower than the initial payment.
What is legal freelance work in Dubai?
Legal freelancing in Dubai is linked to a freelancer visa and important documents. This allows freelancers to work as freelancers without committing to a full-time employment contract. This streamlined process offers autonomy and ensures freelancers have the necessary residency permit to live and work in the city. Discover the opportunities offered by a freelance visa in Dubai now and open the doors to a thriving freelance career in this dynamic city.
Dubai visa for freelancers - instalment plan
Want to set up as a freelancer in the vibrant city of Dubai, but find the cost of a freelance visa daunting? No worries, Dubai offers you a solution to make your dreams come true - the Dubai Freelance Visa instalment plan. This flexible payment option is designed to ease the financial burden. Split the cost of your freelance visa into convenient and manageable instalments.
The advantages of the Dubai Freelance Visa instalment plan
You can utilise the financial resources you need to seize the opportunities of self-employment without having to burden yourself with a lump sum payment.
The plan makes applying for a visa for freelancers in Dubai more affordable and is aimed at a wider range of prospective freelancers.
How does it work?
Application procedure: Apply for your visa for freelancers via the usual channels.
Payment structure: Once approved, the Dubai Freelance Visa instalment plan allows you to split the total cost of the visa into manageable instalments, making it more accessible for freelancers at different stages of their career.
Finalisation of payments: Meet the specified instalments to fulfil the payment obligation and ensure a smooth and uncomplicated process.
Licence for freelancers in Dubai
A freelancer licence in Dubai is the official permit issued to individuals to work as a freelancer in the city. This licence allows freelancers to legally offer their services and carry out independent professional activities covering various industries such as writing, design, marketing, technology and consulting. Obtaining a freelance licence is usually facilitated by certain free zones or government agencies. This ensures that freelancers comply with the legal and regulatory framework in Dubai. With this type of licence, freelancers often receive the necessary documentation to work independently. This allows them to contribute to the city's vibrant and diverse business landscape.
How to get a freelancer licence in Dubai?
Would you like to obtain a licence for freelancers in Dubai? The process is straightforward. If you are currently employed, one more step is required. This includes obtaining the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer. The remaining steps are identical for all individuals and include the following:
- Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer (for those who are already employed).
- Compile the necessary documents, which may include the following:
- Copy of the passport
- Copy of the visa (if applicable)
-Pictures in passport size
- Proof of address
- Professional qualifications and proof of experience
- Business plan (may be required in some free zones) - Once your application is approved, you pay the licence fee to receive your freelance licence. The entire process usually takes five to seven days.
How do you apply for a visa for freelancers in a free zone? -
Applying for a visa for freelancers in a UAE free zone usually involves a number of steps. The process may vary depending on the free zone and the country you are in. Below is a general guide that you can follow. Be sure to check the specific requirements and procedures of the free zone you wish to operate in.
1. select your area
Absolutely! If you want to work as a freelancer, it's important to decide on your area of expertise. Consider your passion, skills and professional background to decide which area best aligns with your goals.
2. apply for an authorisation for freelancers.
Start your journey as a freelancer by applying for a Freelancer Visa Dubai 2024 in your preferred area. This important licence entitles you to freelance activities in the UAE. It can be applied for in prestigious free zones such as Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Ajman Free Zone, Dubai Knowledge Park, Fujairah Creative City Free Zone, Dubai Design District and Ras Al Khaimah Economic Free Zone.
3. prepare the documentation:
Copies of the passport
Photos in passport size
Professional qualifications or certifications
Resume or CV
Portfolio of work
Bank statements or proof of financial stability
No Objection Certificate (NOC) from current employer (if applicable)
4. apply online: -
Many free zones offer online application systems. Visit the official website of the selected free zone and complete the online application form, providing accurate and comprehensive information. Alternatively, you can also apply via the gofreelance.ae website.
5. application fee
Pay the required registration fee. The fee may vary depending on the free zone.
6 Authorisation procedure:
The free zone authority will review your application. This process may take some time and you may be required to provide additional information or attend an interview.
7. issue of the visa:
If your application is approved, you will receive a freelance visa that will allow you to work as a freelancer in the free zone in question.
8. medical examination and Emirates ID:
In some free zones, you may be required to undergo a medical examination. Obtain the required medical certificate and proceed with the Emirates ID application.
9. set up shop:
If required by the free zone, you will take care of any additional steps to set up your company, such as obtaining a business licence.
10. renewal of the visa:
Find out about the visa renewal process and make sure you renew your freelance visa in time to maintain your legal status.
Freezones of the UAE
Several free zones in Dubai offer licences for freelancers and provide various options for individuals in different industries. To make an informed decision, you should consider the following options:
Dubai Internet City:
Dubai Internet City is ideal for tech freelancers. Here you will find a dynamic environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the technology industry.
Dubai Media City:
Dubai Media City is tailored for media professionals and offers a vibrant centre with state-of-the-art facilities to foster creativity and media-related ventures.
Ajman Free Zone:
Ajman Free Zone offers cost-effective solutions and a strategic location that makes it an attractive option for freelancers from various sectors.
Dubai Knowledge Park:
Dubai Knowledge Park is the premier destination for the education and training of freelancers. Here you will find a platform for academic and professional growth to foster a knowledge-based community.
Fujairah Creative City Free Zone:
Fujairah Creative City Free Zone is a free zone in Fujairah designed for creative entrepreneurs. It promotes artistic and cultural activities and offers an inspiring space for freelancers in the creative industry.
Dubai Design District:
Created specifically for design professionals, the Dubai Design District is a dedicated community that fosters innovation and collaboration in design and fashion.
Ras Al Khaimah Economic Free Zone:
The Ras Al Khaimah Economic Free Zone offers freelancers a strategic location and a business-friendly environment for their ventures and offers a variety of sectors.
Choosing the right free zone depends on the type of freelance work you do and the sector in which you work. Each free zone offers specific advantages and facilities. You should therefore carefully consider which free zone suits you best.
Conclusion
To summarise, applying for a visa for freelancers in the UAE opens up lucrative opportunities. With this visa, you can follow your passions, build a thriving business and enjoy the independence of self-employment. At the same time, you will be making a valuable contribution to Dubai's dynamic and diverse economy. Contact the Dubai Visit Visa Online team to initiate the application process for your Dubai freelance visa. Not only will we help you obtain an affordable freelance visa to Dubai, but we will also support you throughout the entire process.
FAQs
How long is the validity period of a visa for freelancers?
The validity period of a visa for freelancers in Dubai usually depends on the free zone and the package chosen. Standard options include one year, two years or three years. However, the exact validity period may vary depending on the specific conditions of the freelance visa offered by the chosen free zone. Be sure to check with the relevant free zone authority or sponsor to understand the options and choose the one that best suits your business needs and long-term plans.
How much does a 2-year visa for freelancers in Dubai cost?
In 2024, a visa for freelancers in Dubai for this specific category will cost AED 2,750 for the first year and AED 5,000 for the second year. There is also a fee for the establishment card of AED 2,000. The Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) also offers freelance permits for educators at prices starting from Dh6,100.
How can I become a freelancer in the UAE?
To obtain a licence as a freelancer in the UAE, you often need to rent office space in your chosen jurisdiction. However, as a sole trader, you have convenient options such as flexi-desks or smart offices. Some jurisdictions offer comprehensive licence packages that include these office-related costs, making the process easier and more accessible for freelancers.
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