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UAE Remote Work Visa: Eligibility And Visa Cost

24-May-2023

5 min read

Looking to enjoy the dubai lifestyle while you work remotely? Here is what you need to know.

So let's get right into it:

Visa required: Dubai Remote Work Visa

Visa fee: USD 287, approximately 23 766 INR

Visa validity: 1 year

Processing time: 30 days to 60 days


What Is Remote Work Visa In UAE?

Remote Work Visa is known as the Virtual Working Program. This program allows individuals to live and work remotely from the UAE for a specific duration without the need for a physical office or workplace within the country. It is valid for 12 months.

The purpose of the virtual working program is for people who meet the qualifying requirements, entrepreneurs, and start-up businesses who reside or work outside the UAE.

Foreigners with valid work visas who are employed outside the UAE are allowed to live here. Foreigners with a one-year visa are allowed to enter the UAE of their own will and participate in employment that meets the visa's terms and conditions.

What Are The Dubai Remote Work Visa Requirements?

You must meet the UAE's requirements to apply for a remote work visa. You'll have to provide the following documents as proof:

  • A passport that is valid for at least six months.
  • Health insurance that is valid in the UAE.
  • Proof that you work remotely for an organization outside the UAE.

Additional documents needed For employees:

  • Proof of employment from a current employer with a one-year contract still in place.
  • A minimum monthly salary of US$ 5000.
  • Last month's payslip.
  • Last three months' bank statements are all required.

Additional documents needed For business owners:

  • Proof of company ownership for one year or longer, subject to extension, with a monthly average income of US$ 5000 or its equivalent in other currencies, as well as the bank statements from the three months prior.
  • Proof of employment or work completed outside of the United Arab Emirates and that it is remote.

To apply for permits for family members, applicants must provide their passports and proof of current health insurance. There is also a charge for each person.

Silver buildings surrounding the biggest building in the world during daytime

How To Apply For Remote Work Visa In UAE?

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai will review and process all applications (new applications and renewals) (GDRFAD).

How to apply for the UAE remote visa
  • Start The application: Visit the website for Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD). Create a username and password. Then select the service you need, "Golden Visa."
  • Fill out the application form: Fill out the application form with accurate and up-to-date information. Be thorough and ensure that you provide all the required details correctly.
  • Attach the documents: Within the online application portal, there will be a section to attach the necessary documents. Scan your documents and save them in a format compatible with the specified requirements. Attach each document in its respective section of the application form.
  • Pay the fees: After submitting your application, you will be prompted to pay the applicable fees. Follow the instructions provided to make the payment securely through the online payment system.
  • Review and submit the application: Before submitting, review your application thoroughly. Double-check that all the information and attached documents are accurate and complete. Once you're confident everything is in order, submit your application.

If you're in the UAE, you can do the following to apply:

  • Visit the AMER service center closest to you.
  • Hand over the proper documents to the service person.
  • Pay the service fees that are needed.
  • Submit your application.

What Are The Benefits Of UAE Remote Work Visa?

You can get all services, including telecommunications, utilities, healthcare, and education, through the virtual working program. Take advantage of Dubai's strong and smooth digital infrastructure, chances for international networking, and zero personal income tax.

  • High healthcare system: Dubai has an excellent healthcare system with cutting-edge facilities and high-quality medical care. In Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), a contemporary medical complex that offers cutting-edge private health care across 150 specialties, there are more than 130 facilities from which to choose.

  • Access to Amenities: When you get your visas and arrive in the UAE, you will receive the Emirates ID. You can use your Emirates ID for various purposes in your daily life. For example, you will have access to a variety of services by having the ID, including banking, phone service, housing rentals, and, if you have kids, the option to enroll them in nearby schools.

  • Benefits of a tax-free lifestyle: Due to the absence of corporate or income taxes and any taxes on dividends or interest, Dubai has some of the highest levels of disposable income worldwide.

  • Fastest growing hub: Currently expanding quickly and on an exponential trend is remote work. Thousands of locations, from little beach towns to modern megacities, are now competing for the attention of remote workers as a result of its rise.


Everything About The Dubai Remote Work Visa?

Here is what you need to know about the Dubai remote work visa.

What Is The Remote Work Visa Dubai Cost?

Every applicant must pay a remote work visa dubai cost of USD 287, approximately 23 766 INR, for the virtual working program fees. Also, you must pay the processing fees and the premium for legal and medical insurance in the UAE. Keep in mind that paying the processing fee does not ensure application approval.

What Is The Dubai Remote Work Visa Processing Time?

The processing time for a digital nomad visa in Dubai is from thirty days up to sixty days. However, the exact duration for processing the visa application could vary depending on various factors, such as the volume of applications, the completeness of documentation, and the efficiency of the processing system.

What Is The Remote Work Visa Validity?

The Remote Work Visa program is valid for one year, renewable upon re-application.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque UAE

All Done

Now that you know everything about the Dubai remote work visa, you can start your application and enjoy it!

Government Source

The information in this blog was gathered from the Government website.

This blog was written and fact-checked with AI assistance.

Written By: Mable Chidi
Fact Checked By: Nikhita Rathod

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Taxes On UAE Virtual Working Program?

Dubai is tax-free income for remote employees, meaning there are no corporation or income taxes. Because you won't be required to pay taxes under these programs, you won't be regarded as a tax resident. However, the government can still issue tax residency certificates as long as you remain in the nation for at least six months of the year.

What Are The Types Of Dubai Visas

You can choose to apply for one of the following Dubai visa types:

Can I Live In Dubai As A Freelancer?

Applying for a freelancer visa is needed if you still need to get a residency visa in the UAE. This visa allows people to live and work as freelancers in Dubai. You will also need a resident visa application.

Can I Come To Dubai On A Tourism Visa And Transfer To This Programme Once There?

It is possible to visit on a regular tourist visa, acquire a feel for the area, and then apply for a transfer to the one-year program when ready. However, please be aware that fees can vary depending on whether you submit your application from Dubai or abroad.

Can I Bring My Family With Me On The Dubai Remote Work Visa?

The Dubai remote work visa was initially designed for individuals only. Still, some reports indicated that it might be possible to sponsor family members under certain conditions. It is recommended to check with the official government.

Can I Work For A UAE-Based Employer On The Dubai Remote Work Visa?

No, the Dubai remote work visa is specifically designed for individuals who continue their employment or business activities with entities outside the UAE. Therefore, it does not permit working for a UAE-based employer.

Are There Any Restrictions On The Type Of Work I Can Do On The Dubai Remote Work Visa?

Generally, the Dubai remote work visa allows individuals to continue their job or business activities remotely. However, it is important to ensure that the nature of your work complies with the laws and regulations of both the UAE and your home country.

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