There has been a shift in the employment trends in the modern world. Many professionals are now considering working independently without being tied to a particular company which is called as “freelancing”. In Dubai too, professionals are finding their own ways to deliver services on project basis and making a fortune for themselves. Freelance visa Dubai, thus, remains as a top choice for professionals of today’s era who want to leverage on their skills and expertise.
In this article, let us explore the Dubai freelance visa and its application process. Let’s also talk about why freelance visa has become so popular in Dubai and what costs to expect in obtaining one.
What is a freelance visa in Dubai?
A freelance visa Dubai is a type of residency visa for individuals that allows them to stay and work in Dubai for a definite period of time to operate as freelancer. Freelance visa can be valid for 1 year or 2 years and provide the option of renewal as well. This visa is suitable for anyone looking for a perfect blend of work and life balance while pursuing dream career in Dubai.
It is important to understand the difference between freelance visa and freelance permit. Freelance permit is a license issued by the government authority (DED/freezone authority) that legally allows a person to conduct freelance activities in Dubai. Whereas. Freelance visa is a residency visa allowing to enter and stay in UAE. You would need both a freelance visa and a freelance permit to operate as a freelancer in Dubai.
Activities for freelancers in Dubai
There are many opportunities that can be explored by freelancers in UAE. Here are the general categories of sectors permitted for Dubai freelancers to operate in:
- Media
- Education
- IT and technology
- Designing
- Services and consultancy
- Content production
- Media and arts
- Advertising and publishing
- Accounting
The list can even go beyond! You can check with the government for the latest updates.
Process for getting a freelance visa in Dubai
Here are the simple steps that will help you get your freelance visa Dubai:
Choose your activities:
Decide the operations you want to carry out as a freelancer in Dubai. It can be related to sectors such as designing, marketing, IT, accounting, legal services, etc.
Choose your location:
Decide if you would want to operate on the freezone or mainland. Each zone has its own legal requirements and cost of setup.
Meet the eligibility:
Make sure you meet the legal requirements for getting a freelance visa Dubai. It includes having valid passport, necessary qualifications, being above 18 years, having all documents in place.
Obtain a NOC, if needed:
If you are residing in UAE currently on some other visa such as employment visa which is sponsored by your employer, you must get NOC from them.
Obtain your freelance permit:
Apply for the freelance license with the DED or respective freezone authority.
Apply for freelance visa:
Once your freelance permit is approved, you can apply for your freelance residency visa.
Secure entry permit:
First you must get an entry permit that will allow you to enter Dubai and complete the residency visa formalities.
Undergo medical test and biometric screening:
Once you enter Dubai, get the medicals done at government approved health centers and apply for the Emirates ID as well. It will also include getting the biometrics scanned.
Collect your visa:
Once your visa request is approved and you pass the above step, you will receive your freelance visa Dubai which will be valid for up to 2 years.
Requirements for freelance visa Dubai
To be eligible for freelance visa in Dubai, you must meet some eligibility criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Must have valid passport with 6 months minimum validity.
- Must possess relevant degrees, certifications, etc.
- Have sufficient experience in your chosen field.
- Be medically fit.
- Have no criminal record.
Documents required for getting a freelance visa in Dubai
To obtain your freelance visa, you must first secure your freelance permit, which needs submission of following documents:
- Valid passport copy
- Visa and Emirates ID copy (if you are UAE resident)
- No objection certificate from current sponsor (if applicable)
- Passport sized photo
- Updated CV
- Bank reference letter
- Portfolio of work sample (if applicable)
- Business plan for freelancing activities
For getting your freelance visa, you would need to submit:
- Freelance license copy
- Passport copy
- Passport sized photo
- Establishment card
- Medical insurance
Please note that documentation may vary. It is advisable to contact experts like Dubiz Business setup for more accurate details for your freelance business in Dubai.
Dubai freelance visa cost
The 2 years freelance visa Dubai price can be anywhere between AED 14,170* and AED 25,000*. Here are some other expenses related to setting up freelance business in Dubai:
- Freelance permit: From AED 7500*
- Establishment card: From AED 2000*
- Medical fitness tests: Around AED 380*
- Emirates ID cost: Around AED 370*
- Medical insurance: From AED 1500*
Please note that costs are subject to change. To get a complete cost breakdown and more detailing, it is advisable to contact experts.
Benefits of obtaining freelance visa in Dubai:
Here are the amazing advantages of getting a freelance visa in Dubai:
Residency benefits: You can live and work freely and legally in the UAE and enjoy residency perks like opening bank accounts, sponsoring family members, enrolling children in schools, and getting a driver’s license.
Legal consult: Having a freelance visa ensures you are staying in Dubai legally and respecting the laws of the land.
Tax benefits: In Dubai, there is no personal income tax, no property tax. There may be tax on business income beyond a limit for freelancers, but the rate is very low.
Affordable business setup: Starting a freelance business is comparatively low cost as there is no need to invest in office spaces or hire employees. Freelancers can operate from home offices, co-working spaces, etc.
Flexibility: Freelancers have the flexibility to work according to their own hours and can work for multiple clients at the same time.
Nation standards: The UAE is known for its luxury lifestyle, booming economy, strategic geographical location and safety. Additionally, the government is extremely friendly to foreign businesses. Overall, it’s a perfect hub for carrying out freelance business.
Summing up!
For those looking for incredible opportunities in Dubai, freelance business is a promising route to take. As a freelancer, you get to enjoy a perfect work life balance and simultaneously you can work towards something you are passionate about.
Getting your freelance business established in Dubai needs acquisition of proper freelance visa Dubai and permits. Dubiz Business Setup is a trusted name when it comes to business setup advisors in Dubai, UAE. They can help you with establishing your dream company in Dubai while taking care of your business license, visas, business bank account, document clearance and more. Contact them today to discover affordable business setup packages!
