Everything you need to know about Freelancer Visa

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Freelancer Visa

Freelance Visa in UAE – Types, Benefits , Eligibility, Cost,Process

Freelance Visa and Permits in the UAE Explained

If you want to start your own business or work from home, the UAE offers a great opportunity through the freelance permit. To work as a freelancer, you need both a UAE residence visa and a freelance work permit.

Freelancing in the UAE lets you work independently, but there are a few things to consider.

What is a freelance permit? It’s a special permission from the government that allows you to work legally in the UAE. It’s not the same as a visa and can be obtained from certain government departments or special business zones.

To live in the UAE, you need a visa. But you don’t always need a specific freelance visa if you have a freelance permit.

For example, if you have a family visa from a family member, you can still get a freelance permit. If you already have a full-time job with an employment visa, you can get a freelance permit to do extra freelance work. Sometimes, you might need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current visa sponsor.

In the UAE, you can get a freelance work permit from various sources. It might come from a government department like the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), or more commonly, from free zones.

Free zones like Dubai Media City, Abu Dhabi’s twofour54, and Ajman Creative City offer freelance permits. Other emirates have similar options too.

Key Points About Freelance Permits in Dubai:

  • The cost of the freelance permit does not cover your visa, Emirates ID, or health insurance. These are extra costs you need to think about when budgeting.
  • You can apply for a freelance work permit even if you are not in the UAE. Once your application is approved, you’ll get an entry permit to enter the UAE. After entering, you can continue with the visa application. If you are already in the UAE on a visit visa, you can apply for both the work permit and the visa.
  • Some free zones offer a sole proprietorship license instead of a freelance permit. This lets you own a company fully. However, you might need to switch your visa to the free zone’s visa.
  • A freelance permit is great for people in media, technology, and education who want to work independently and build their client base. It’s ideal for those who don’t want a full-time job or prefer short-term contracts. It’s also good for people living outside the UAE who want to work on short-term projects.
  • Some free zones may ask for a business plan with your application. This plan should show your current and future contracts to prove you qualify for the permit.
  • Depending on what you do, you can choose one or more types of work when applying for a freelance permit. Different free zones offer different options.

To apply, you can contact the relevant authority or sign up online through their official websites or apps.

Getting a freelance permit in the UAE involves several steps and costs. It’s important to plan for all expenses. This permit is ideal if you want to work independently without committing to a full-time job.

Benefits of Freelance Visa and Permit in the UAE

Having a freelance permit and visa in Dubai offers several advantages:

  1. Work Flexibility: With a freelance visa, you can work for multiple companies or clients. This flexibility is perfect if you prefer not to have a traditional 9-to-5 job and want to take on different projects.

  2. Cost-Effective: Freelance visas in Dubai are usually cheaper than setting up a full company. This lower cost helps you offer competitive prices, which can attract more clients.

  3. No Office Space Needed: Unlike traditional businesses, you don’t need to invest in office space with a freelance visa. This means lower overhead costs and an easier entry into the market.

  4. Access to Free Zones: Freelancers with a Dubai visa can use business centers in free zones. These centers provide essential resources and facilities to help you work efficiently.

  5. Family Sponsorship: With a freelance visa, you can sponsor your family members to live with you in Dubai. This is a great benefit if you want your loved ones close while you work.

  6. Affordable and Flexible: Applying for a freelance visa in Dubai is cost-effective, with options for 1 or 3-year validity. You also have access to multiple free zones. It’s also a good option if your spouse lives in Dubai, as it can help with family reunification.

  7. Job Opportunities: Dubai has many job opportunities and assignments for freelancers through official marketplace websites. You can connect with companies and people looking for freelancers with your skills.

Freelance visas offer flexibility and opportunities for both residents and non-residents to work legally in Dubai. Be sure to check the specific requirements and procedures for each type of visa to find the one that best fits your needs.

What Can You Do with a Freelance Permit in the UAE?

With a freelance permit in the UAE, you can:

  1. Offer Your Services: You can provide your services to individuals and companies.

  2. Get Paid: You can bill your clients and receive payment for your work.

  3. Work with Government Organizations: You can work with government agencies if your freelance services require it.

  4. Use Shared Office Spaces: Many free zones offer shared office spaces for freelancers. These co-working spaces provide a professional environment to work and give you a chance to network with other professionals. It’s like having an office without needing a long-term lease or working from home.

Types of Freelance Visas in Dubai

In Dubai, different types of freelance visas are available depending on your situation:

  1. Freelance Visa and Work Permit for Residents:

    • If you already live in Dubai, you can apply for a freelance work permit even if you have a full-time job.
    • If you’re employed, you’ll need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer or sponsor.

  2. Freelance Visa for Non-Residents:

    • If you’re not a UAE resident, you must apply for a freelancer visa to get a residency permit.
    • This visa allows you to live and work in Dubai as a freelancer.

  3. Dubai Talent Pass:

    • Introduced by the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (Dafza), Dubai Culture, and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
    • Designed to attract global talent in fields like technology, marketing, art, media, education, culture, and consultancy.
    • Costs AED 9,500 and is renewable annually. Renewal fees may vary depending on your field.

  4. Green Residence for Freelancing and Self-Employment:

    • A 5-year residency visa for freelancers and self-employed individuals.
    • Eligibility includes having a self-employment or freelance permit, a bachelor’s degree or specialized diploma, and a minimum annual income of AED 360,000 or proof of financial stability.

  5. Freelance Visa by Profession:

    • Banking and Finance Professionals: Apply through Abu Dhabi’s Department of Economic Development.
    • Media Professionals: Options include Dubai Media City and twofour54 in Abu Dhabi. Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) also provides freelance permits.
    • Educationists: Freelance visa costs AED 2,750 for the first year and AED 5,000 for the second year, with an additional Establishment Card fee of AED 2,000.
    • IT Professionals: Apply through gofreelance.ae, with costs depending on visa duration.
    • Couture Designers and Related Professions: Affordable one-year and three-year visa options are available, along with an Establishment Card fee.

How to Obtain a Freelance Visa and Permit in the UAE

Here’s a general guide to getting your freelance visa and permit:

  1. Choose Your Freelance Activity: Decide your professional field. Your choice will determine which licensing authority or free zone to apply through.

  2. Select a Licensing Authority: Based on your activity, pick a licensing authority or free zone, such as Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, or Dubai Knowledge Park. Different zones have varying costs and requirements.

  3. Apply for a Freelance Permit: Submit your application for a freelance permit along with the required documents. This permit allows you to legally work as a freelancer.

  4. Apply for a Freelance Visa: After your permit is approved, apply for a freelance visa to work and live in the UAE. Some visas also allow you to sponsor family members.

  5. Receive Approval and Collect Your Visa: Once approved, collect your freelance visa, which is usually valid for two to three years.

Documents Required for a Freelance Visa in Dubai and Other Emirates

When applying for a freelance visa, gather the following documents:

  • Copy of your passport
  • Copy of your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID (if you are a resident)
  • No Objection Letter (NOC) from your current sponsor (if applicable)
  • Recent photograph
  • CV (resume)
  • Portfolio of your work (if applicable)

Ensure your passport has at least 8 months of validity. For education-related work, proof of qualifications recognized by your home country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also needed.

Freelance Visa and Permit Authorities in the UAE

Here are some key authorities for freelance visas:

  • Dubai South Free Zone: Cost-effective option. Visit their website for more details.
  • GoFreelance: Under Dubai Development Authority, covers various freelancing activities. Be cautious of unofficial companies.
  • Abu Dhabi: Options include the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development and twofour54. Twofour54 offers freelance visas valid for two years.
  • Northern Emirates: Includes Umm Al Quwain, Ajman, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. Each has different cost-effective options and requirements.

How to Apply for a Freelance Permit in Abu Dhabi

  1. Log In: Visit twofour54.
  2. Choose: Select the option to start a business or set up as a freelancer.
  3. Submit Documents:
    • Passport copy
    • Passport-size photo
    • Updated CV
    • Professional references
    • Work offer or letter of intent (if applicable)
  4. Receive Approval: You’ll be contacted within 3 working days. Once approved, sign documents and make payments

How to Apply for a Freelance Visa and Permit in Dubai

  1. Log In: Visit GoFreelance.
  2. Apply: Choose your sector (Media, Tech, Education) and submit documents.
  3. Submit: Upload required documents, including application form, CV, passport copy, and No Objection Certificate (if needed).
  4. Complete Visa Procedures: Receive entry permit, complete medical tests, and get your residency visa stamped.

How to Apply for a Freelance Permit in Ras Al Khaimah

  1. Log In: Visit RAKEZ.
  2. Submit Documents:
    • Passport copy
    • UAE Residence Visa copy (if applicable)
    • No Objection Certificate (if applicable)
    • Portfolio/sample of works or qualification certificate
  3. Payment: Pay fees via cash, cheque, bank transfer, or online. Costs start from AED 6,100.
  4. Receive Permit: Once processed, receive your freelancer permit.

How to Apply for a Freelance Permit in Fujairah

  1. Log In: Visit Creative City.
  2. Choose Package: Select from various packages.
  3. Submit Contact Details: Fill out the contact form and submit. The free zone authority will contact you.

How to Apply for a Freelance Permit in Ajman

  1. Log In: Visit Ajman Free Zone.
  2. Choose Package: Select from available packages.
  3. Submit Application: Include required documents. Processing time is one working day if approved.

Costs for Freelance Visas in Dubai and Other Emirates (2024)

Dubai

  1. Freelance Permit:
    • One-Year Permit: AED 7,500
    • Three-Year Permit: AED 13,500 (approx.)
  2. Residence Card:
    • One-Year Residence Card: AED 2,000
  3. Employment Visa:
    • Three-Year Visa: AED 2,750
    • Five-Year Visa: AED 5,000
  4. Entry Permit Fees:
    • Three-Year Residency Visa:
      • Normal Process: AED 3,330
      • Express Process: AED 3,900
  5. Additional Costs:
    • Emirates ID: Included in the permit and visa costs.
    • Medical Tests: Included in the permit and visa costs.
    • Establishment Card: Approx. AED 2,000 (if required).

Abu Dhabi

  1. Freelance Permit:
    • Twofour54: AED 530 (valid for two years)
  2. Freelance Visa:

    General Cost: AED 7,500 (approx.)

  3. Additional Costs:
    • Emirates ID: Included.
    • Medical Tests: Included.

Ras Al Khaimah

  1. Freelance Permit:
    • RAKEZ: Starting from AED 6,100 (includes access to business centers and a UAE residence visa).
  2. Additional Costs:
    • Emirates ID: Included.
    • Medical Tests: Included.

Fujairah

  1. Freelance Permit:
    • Creative City:
      • Commercial C (No Visa): Costs vary.
      • Commercial Plus One: Includes 2 visas, cost varies by package.
      • Freelancer Company: Includes 4 visas, cost varies by package.
      • Genius Package: Includes 15 visas, cost varies by package.
  2. Additional Costs:
    • Emirates ID: Included.
    • Medical Tests: Included.

Ajman

  1. Freelance Permit:
    • Ajman Free Zone: AED 6,000 (plus visa, Emirates ID, and health insurance).
  2. Additional Costs:
    • Visa: Cost varies based on the number of visas.
    • Emirates ID: Included.
    • Medical Tests: Included.

Sharjah

  1. Freelance Permit:
    • SHAMS Free Zone: Costs start around AED 6,000 (for media professionals).
  2. Additional Costs:
    • Emirates ID: Included.
    • Medical Tests: Included.

Disclaimer:

The cost for a freelance visa varies significantly depending on the emirate and the specific free zone. Each free zone offers different packages that might include the cost of the permit, visa, Emirates ID, and medical tests. Be sure to check the latest details and any additional costs with the respective free zone authority where you plan to apply. Tycoon not liable to any misinformation and damage caused 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a UAE freelance visa?

  • It’s a legal document allowing individuals to work as freelancers in the UAE.

Who can apply for a freelance visa?

  • Available to expatriates and UAE residents wanting to work as freelancers in various industries.

Can I work for one or multiple clients?

  • You can work for multiple clients with a freelance permit.

How long is a freelance permit valid?

  • Typically issued for one to three years, depending on the free zone.

What are the costs?

  • Costs vary by free zone and include registration, license, and visa processing fees.

Do I need a physical office space?

  • Many free zones do not require a physical office space. You can often work remotely.

Are there restrictions on freelance activities?

  • Some regulated professions have specific requirements. Check with the relevant free zone authority for details.

Feel free to ask if you have more questions or need further clarification!

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