If you are a freelancer who has seen potential in moving your life and work to the modern-day land of opportunity that is Dubai, a freelance visa may hold the key to turning over a new leaf in this vibrant city! Keep reading this blog to find out everything there is to know.
What is a freelance visa?
Simply put, a freelance visa Dubai will permit you to live and work in Dubai without the need for a full-time employer. You can maintain your status as a freelancer without any strings attached. Freelance visas are most often offered through many of Dubai’s free zones.
Dubai Media City (DMC), Dubai Internet City (DIC), Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP), Dubai, Design District (d3), Dubai Production City (DPC) are the most sought after by global freelancers, as they give the choice to meet, mingle, and work together with like-minded individuals.
Are you eligible for a freelance visa?
Before applying for this visa category, you must ensure that you meet the Dubai freelance visa requirements and have the necessary skills and experience in sectors such as media technology, education, or design.
In addition, you must be able to prove evidence of your work as a freelancer by way of a portfolio, while meeting the specific requirements set by the free zone you are applying through.
Application Process
Wondering how to get a freelance visa in Dubai? First, select the free zone that best matches your profession. Then, fill out the freelance visa application form available on the respective free zone’s website.
You’ll be required to submit supporting documents as a part of your application, which will include:
- Passport copy
- Passport-sized photograph
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic certificates (if applicable)
- Portfolio of work (for creative professionals)
Once you have received initial approval from the free zone you applied through, a payment for the visa and permit fees is required. This fee will vary depending on the chosen free zone and the duration of your visa.
Once the freelance permit is issued, apply for the residence visa, which may include a medical test and Emirates ID application.
What will it cost?
Expect to allocate around AED 7,500 to AED 20,000 for your freelancer permit depending on the free zone and the package chosen.
Additional costs apply for the residence visa, medical test, and Emirates ID, typically around AED 3,000 to AED 5,000.
The benefits of a freelance visa
Dubai freelance visa benefits include:
Flexibility: Ability to work with multiple companies and clients.
Residence in Dubai: Opportunity to live in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.
No Sponsor Needed: Unlike traditional employment, you don’t need a company sponsor.
Access to Business Hub: Dubai’s strategic location and infrastructure offer significant business advantages.
It is your responsibility to stay within the activities allowed under your freelance permit as moving beyond this scope may require additional licenses.
Do take note that even though Dubai has no personal income tax, you should be aware of tax obligations in your home country.
Need Help? Contact SetHub!
As the best business setup consultant in Dubai, SetHub is your go-to expert for all things related to freelance visas and much more.
Whether you’re trying to figure out how to get a freelance visa in Dubai or need help with any other legal or business setup matters, SetHub is here to make the process smooth and hassle-free. Our team of experts is ready to assist you with personalized, professional advice tailored to your unique situation.
Why Choose SetHub?
Our team of legal and business experts is well-versed in UAE regulations and procedures. Schedule a call with us and hear back within one business hour. Our tailored solutions are guaranteed to meet your specific needs. Reach out now and let us help you through every step of the process.
