Dubai offers various types of freelance visas, as recently outlined by the government. These visas cater to different circumstances and individuals, depending on their residency status and professional fields.
GOFREELANCE – Dubai Media City – Internet Media City
The GoFreelance program operates in Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Knowledge Park, and Dubai Design District. Freelancers in education, media, technology, and design can bid on projects and expand their network through the dedicated GoFreelance marketplace. The permit costs AED 7,500, with annual renewals and the option to apply for family and dependent visas. To apply, visit the official GoFreelance website, complete the required steps, and make the necessary payment.
FREELANCE VISA AND WORK PERMIT FOR DUBAI RESIDENTS
Residents of Dubai, who are already under the sponsorship of their parents or spouses, can obtain a freelance work permit. Even if employed full-time, residents can apply for this permit, requiring a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer or sponsor.
THE DUBAI TALENT PASS
Launched by the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA), Dubai Culture, and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the Dubai Talent Pass aims to attract global talent. It permits freelancers in technology, marketing, art, media, education, culture, and consultancy to live and work in Dubai. The application cost via the Dubai Talent Pass is AED 9,500, with yearly renewals available at varying fees based on the freelancer’s field.
GREEN RESIDENCE FOR FREELANCING AND SELF-EMPLOYMENT
The UAE Green Visa designed for freelancers and self-employed individuals offers a five-year residency option. This visa is obtainable without the necessity of being employed by a company or having a sponsor. To be eligible for this visa, individuals must meet the following requirements:
- Obtain a self-employment or freelance permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
- Possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree or a specialized diploma.
- Demonstrate a minimum annual income of AED 360,000 through self-employment over the past two years or showcase financial solvency during their stay.
BENEFITS OF HAVING A FREELANCE VISA IN DUBAI
Having a freelance permit and visa in Dubai offers numerous advantages:
- Flexibility: The visa allows individuals to work for multiple companies in the mentioned sectors without committing to a traditional job.
- Affordability: With the GoFreelance package, setup costs are lower, and office space is not required, enabling freelancers to enter the market at more competitive rates.
- Independence: Holders can work as independent contractors for companies across the UAE and access the free zone’s business centre.
- Family Sponsorship: Freelancers can sponsor family members to live with them, enhancing their personal life. However, employee sponsorship is not permitted with a freelance visa.
- Job Opportunities: The official marketplace website facilitates the connection between freelancers and companies or individuals seeking specific skill sets, offering numerous job opportunities.
FREELANCE VISA ACCORDING TO PROFESSION
Various Free zones and emirates in the UAE prioritize specific professions according to government-identified needs.
For instance, banking and finance professionals can apply for a freelance visa through Abu Dhabi’s Department of Economic Development. This includes individuals involved in auditing, accounting, analyzing auditing and accounting systems, as well as consultants in tax-related areas and Shariah review consultancy for transactions in Islamic financial institutions.
FREELANCE VISA APPLICATION GUIDE FOR DUBAI: OPTIONS AND PROCESS – 2024
If you’re exploring the process of obtaining a freelance visa in Dubai, especially in sectors like media, education, IT, or couture, there are diverse options tailored to your professional background. Here’s a breakdown of the available alternatives and the step-by-step application process:
MEDIA SECTOR
If you have expertise in the media industry, Dubai Media City provides numerous opportunities for freelancers. Professionals in roles such as actors, photographers, artists, journalists, and web designers can apply for a freelancer visa in Dubai through this channel. Additionally, twofour54 in Abu Dhabi is an alternative avenue offering freelance visas valid for two years. For those seeking affordability, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone provides a cost-effective freelance permit starting from AED 6,100.
IT PROFESSIONALS
IT professionals in fields like mobile, web, software development, and IT-related roles can fulfil the freelance visa requirements in Dubai.
COUTURE DESIGNERS
Freelancer visas in Dubai cater to couture industry professionals, including apparel designers, interior designers, and fashion stylists. The cost for a one-year visa is AED 2,750, and for a three-year visa, it is AED 5,000, with an additional AED 2,000 for the Establishment Card.
APPLICATION PROCESS
The process for obtaining a freelance permit and visa in Dubai involves several straightforward steps:
Apply Online for the Permit: Contact our team and fill out the application form, and submit required documents such as your resume, recent photograph, passport, visa copy, bank reference letter, and NOC if applicable.
Our business advisor will guide you step by step: After online submission, await an email notification indicating approval, a process that can take up to 7 to 10 business days.
Apply for the Freelance Visa in Dubai: Upon obtaining the freelance permit, access TECOM’s business service platform, AXS, to apply for the establishment card, incurring an additional cost. After receiving the establishment card, apply for a freelance employment visa under the Dubai Development Authority (DDA). The freelance visa in Dubai requirements include specific documentation.
Complete Residency Visa Procedures: Following the freelance visa application submission, receive an entry permit within five to seven working days. Undergo necessary residency visa procedures, including a medical test. Upon completion, receive a residency visa valid for three years.
Freelance permit & Visa Package cost details 2024
Various costs are associated with obtaining freelance visas in Dubai:
- Freelance Permit (1 year): AED 7,500
- Establishment Card (1 year): AED 2,000
- Employment Visa (3 years): AED 2,750
- Employment Visa (5 years): AED 5,000
Additional costs for residence visas outside the UAE range from AED 3,330 to AED 3,900 (normal and express), while costs for residence visas within the UAE range from AED 4,960 to AED 6,340 (normal and express). These fees encompass medical test charges, visa stamping charges, and Emirates ID fees. The freelance visa Dubai cost for 2023 may vary based on the field and other factors.
If you’re ready to start Freelancing, apply for the visa today or explore alternative residency visas such as business or investor visas in Dubai. Keep track of your visa’s expiry date online and stay updated on new family visa rules in the UAE by subscribing to relevant channels.
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