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Dubai Freelance Visa, UAE

The concept of a full-time work is changing at a fast pace. The creative and skilled individuals would now consider working on their free times rather than in a conventional day/night work environment. Thanks to the internet and digital boom that helped an individual carry out his/ her work irrespective of the location. The greatest benefit of freelancing is the ease of doing work anytime, anywhere. Here freelancer becomes his own boss and enjoys the commanding position to set the time of work. A freelancer like a writer or a musician can even work in a moving train for your information! The success of a freelancer depends on multiple factors like expertise, quality of work, experience, reputation, remarks of the client, etc.

Dubai is a place of great prospects and excellent opportunities for business development; hence more and more people consider securing a freelance visa in Dubai, UAE to live and work there. Being an innovation and technology hub, professionals from diverse fields work in Dubai as a freelancer acquiring residence visa. You must be officially registered as a freelancer in one of the free zones to get a freelance residence permit in Dubai. For that, you need to secure a freelancer license in Dubai first. Availing a freelancer residence permit provides several opportunities in Dubai. By acquiring a Dubai freelance visa, you are legally entitled to live and work in the Emirate. Also, you can bring your family to the country and enjoy all the benefits under the freelance visa.

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  • How to get Residence visa in Dubai?

    Rules regarding attaining a UAE citizenship is stringent and in no way an expatriate can attain the citizenship of the UAE. Unlike UAE citizenship, the resident permit/ visa is easily attainable for expatriates. Attaining a resident visa is nearly the same as enjoying the UAE citizen’s privileges. Here are the scenarios in which a foreigner gets the UAE residence visa.

    • Residence permit for students – International students may apply for a Residence Permit when they get admission to a University. A student Residence Permit is issued here.
    • Residence permit for investors – Foreign investors and entrepreneurs are granted Residence permit.
    • Residence permit for employees - When it comes to employment, Residence permit is granted to the employee.
    • Residence permit issued for property buyers – Individuals who invest in the real estate of Dubai in the form of house purchase that amounts to greater than AED 1 million.
    • Freelancer Residence permit – A freelancer is granted a Residence permit after he/she attains a Freelancer license.
    • Family permit – An investor or a freelancer may apply for a Residence permit for the members of the same family.
  • What is a freelance visa in Dubai?

    The term Dubai freelance visa refers to a residence permit in Dubai, which gives you the eligibility to live and work in the Emirates while getting resident permits for your dependents or family members. To get the freelance visa in Dubai, first, you should secure a freelancer license. Several Free zones in Ras-Al-Khaimah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai provide Freelance Licenses. Professionals in media, education and technology domains are allowed to apply for a Dubai Freelance License. A Freelance License lets these professionals offer their valuable help, support and service as consultants in the UAE. Issuance of Freelance license is part of the UAE government’s meticulously planned decision to attract expertise in different sectors of the UAE. Many free zones offer Freelance License and some of them are listed below:

    • Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP)
    • Dubai Internet City (DIC)
    • Twofour54
    • Ras Al Khaimah Economic Free Zone Authority (RAKEZ)
  • Who can apply for a Freelance license?

    As already discussed only the individuals and professionals who belong to the education, technology and media sectors can apply for the Freelance license/Permit.

    Education sector – Individuals who offer e-learning consultancy, conduct research, educational consultants, counsellors come under this category.

    Technology sector – Many professionals who apply for the freelance license belong to the technology sector. Information technology, all sorts of web- based development, app development, data analytics and many others come under the category of the technology sector.

    Media - artists, creative individuals, professionals who excel in the field of music and related streams, directors, writers, PR executives, print media professionals, social media analysts and many other creative professions come under Media.

  • Benefits of hiring freelancers from employer’s perspective

    Many creative professionals, particularly in the media sector, have benefitted from the launch of affordable freelance licenses. The Media and Entertainment free zone, Twofour54 based in Abu Dhabi has helped many young professionals establish themselves in the Production industry. Freelance licenses have helped not just the job-seeking individuals. It has helped the employers too. Here are some of the major benefits connected with hiring freelancing individuals to the workforce.

    • Hiring freelancers help the business establishment in business expansion.
    • The employers can cut down the cost of hiring full-time employees and the associated expenses. The associated expenses include the visa charges, medical insurance expenses, air tickets cost etc. When all these expenses add up, it becomes considerably huge.
    • Hiring freelancers is more flexible compared to full-time employees. The employer needs to hire a freelancer only when there is a requirement.
    • The employer can manage the cash flow more easily.
    • Helps the employer to meet quick and bulk employee requirements.
    • The employer may select from the vast pool of freelancers in order to pick the right candidate.
    • The employer can get the desired workforce from all over the world.
  • Advantages of taking up freelance projects

    The advantages of pursuing a freelance job is very obvious and here are they.

    • A physical office is not needed for freelance ventures.
    • The freelancers enjoy the flexibility in job timings.
    • Freelancers may work irrespective of their location.
    • Freelancers can cut the travel-cost by working from home. This helps the freelancers minimize their expenses and thereby increase profits.
    • Freelancers have the freedom take up multiple assignments at the same time.
    • A freelancer with time and effort can transform the freelancing venture in to a successful business.
    • Freelancers can create a brand of their own.
    • Being their own boss, freelancers enjoy better work-life balance.
  • How to take up a freelancing career in Dubai?

    When compared to the company registration formalities, obtaining a Dubai freelance license is rather simple. The freelance license fee connected with the issuance of the Freelance license is affordable too. In order to attain a Dubai freelance license, the license applicant is supposed to register in a relevant free zone jurisdiction. The Free zone must be selected based on the type of activity and jurisdiction. The license is issued by the concerned Free zone authority.

    Here is how you should go about for a freelancing career.

    • Get the appropriate application form for the purpose and fill it.
    • Next is the procurement of documents like a passport(copy), educational certificates, necessary proofs and business plan.
    • You are required to change the residence visa to freelance visa in order to acquire a freelance license. In order to accomplish this, the sponsor is supposed to sign a No-Objection certificate.
    • Your banking history must be proved satisfactory. You may acquire the supporting certificate from your bank.
    • You may have to submit other documents like CV, endorsement letter from your present or former employer etc.
    • Select the appropriate free zone for registering your freelance license.
    • Produce the filled application and passport copy before the free zone authority.
    • The free zone authority will issue a confirmation letter. Return back the confirmation letter signed.
    • Now it’s time for payment of fees connected with acquiring a Freelance permit.
    • After signing the sponsorship contract, you may acquire the Freelance Permit and Visa.
    • Wait for a period of 10 days for the license to be issued.

    The validity of the freelance license has been extended to 2 years recently. When the validity ends, the license has to be renewed. The validity was 1 year previously.

    The license fee varies with the free zone jurisdiction and the kind of activity. Twofour54 free zone offers the most affordable license fee. Various free zones and the corresponding license fees are listed below in the table.

    Free zone License fees in AED
    Fujairah free zone 14,000
    UAQ free zone 13,000
    Ajman free zone 11,000
    D-Tech free zone 7,500
    Twofour54 free zone 2,500

    Would you like to get a Dubai freelance visa? Need to register a Freelance license from any of the free zones based in the UAE? Are you a professional working in the technology, media or education field? Are you someone looking for a career-change to freelancing? If yes, get in touch with Kiltons Freelance Permit experts. Our experts will assist you to select the apt Free zone and accomplish all the formalities associated with acquiring a Freelance License in UAE.

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Get A Freelance Visa in Dubai

 Who wouldn't like the flexibility to work from anywhere in the world according to their schedule? Being a freelancer gives you the freedom to choose the projects you want to work on, providing you with a better work-life balance. Dubai is a haven for freelancers, offering immense work and networking opportunities. Freelancers in Dubai also enjoy relatively higher pay, making the city a preferred destination for freelancers. However, if you wish to work in Dubai as a freelancer, you need to obtain a freelancer visa. Dubai offers a freelancer visa in numerous free zones for foreign nationals who want to work as independent contractors with any business, government agency, or individual. You need to have a freelance work permit before applying for a Dubai freelance visa. To obtain a freelance permit, you don't need to be sponsored or hired by a company in Dubai.

Documents Needed to Get Dubai Freelance Visa

To acquire a freelance visa in Dubai, you need to submit a few documents. Here are the freelance visa Dubai requirements.

  • Updated resume
  • Recent photograph
  • Copy of the passport and the visa
  • Completed application form
  • Two professional references (contact details included)
  • Academic certificates attested by the UAE Consulate or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Job offer or a letter of intent (must include personal/professional background and work experience)
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your sponsor (if required)

Eligibility Criteria to Get a Dubai Freelance Visa

To get a freelance visa in Dubai, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria.

  • The minimum educational level required is a bachelor's degree, a specialized diploma or equivalent.
  • Obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE).
  • Minimum annual income of AED 360,000 for the past two years as a self-employed individual.

Cost of Dubai Freelance Visa

 For applying for a freelance visa in Dubai, there are several costs involved.The cost of a Dubai freelance visa Dubai usually varies depending on the permit's validity, and whether you are applying from Dubai or outside. 

  • Freelance permit (valid for 1 year) renewed annually: AED 7,000
  • Establishment card (valid for 1 year) renewed annually: AED 2,000
  • An employment visa for 3 years costs AED 2,750
  • An employment visa for 5 years costs AED 5,000
  • The freelance residence visa is valid for 3 years- AED 3,330 (normal), AED 3,990 (express) 
  • The total for a Dubai Freelance visa cost can be approximately AED 20,000.

Connect with Kiltons business setup consultants and get a Dubai freelance visa at the best rate.

Advantages of Freelance Visa in Dubai

 Being a freelancer means that you can work for any company or project of your choice. You don't necessarily have to adhere to a 9-5 schedule; instead, you can work on your own timetable. As a freelancer, you can be your own boss and manage your work independently.

  • Obtaining a freelance visa in Dubai isn't expensive, making it more accessible for freelancers to seize the immense opportunities the city offers.
  •  With a freelance visa and freelance permit, you can work in any of the free zones, allowing you to operate as an independent contractor for businesses throughout the UAE.
  •  A Dubai freelance visa also enables you to sponsor your family and bring them to Dubai to live with you.
  •  As a freelancer in Dubai, you can enjoy a better work-life balance because you have the autonomy to choose the projects you want to undertake and decide how many hours you want to work each day.

What are the benefits of being a freelancer in Dubai?

  • You get a UAE residence permit
  • No need for a local sponsor
  • Bring your spouse or family members to Dubai
  • Explore new opportunities for work
  • Increase your earnings
  • Enjoy work-life balance
  • Do not require an office space
  • Work according to your schedule

Who Can Get A Dubai Freelance Visa?

A Dubai freelance visa is specifically granted to artists, sports professionals, designers, banking and IT experts, education specialists, and media personnel. Freelance visa holders are permitted to engage in specific activities, including education, marketing, IT, consultancy, event management, editing, copywriting, design, and more in the free zones Dubai Media City, Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai Airport Free Zone, Dubai Design District, and Dubai Internet City.

Media Activities

 Editor: Audio/Video, Director: Theatre, PR Specialist, Cameraman, Musician, Copywriter, Social Media Specialist, Lighting Specialist, Creative Director, Animator, Artist, Journalist, Commentators: Sports, Television, Radio, Photographer, Marketing Specialist, Events Planner, Set and Exhibit Designer, Critics: Theatre, Film, Music, Print Media Specialist, Aerial Shoot Photographer, Music Director, Special Effects Producer, Composer, Wardrobe Stylist, Producer, Brand Consultant, Photojournalist, Commentators: Radio, Events, Sports, Media Planner, Presenter V/Radio, Web Designer, Market Analyst, Furniture Designer, Social Media Influencer, Director: Music, Translator, New Media Specialist, Audio, Writer, Actor, Scriptwriter, Illustrator, Editor: Publishing, Graphic Designer, Web Developer.

Education Activities

 Education Advisor, Researcher, eLearning Advisor, Trainer, Executive Coaching.

Tech Activities

 Data Science and Analytics Freelancer, Architecture Freelancer, Networking Freelancer, Customer Service Freelancer, IT and Telecommunication, Web, Mobile, Software Development. 

Design Activities

 Fashion Designer, Apparel Designer, Fashion Stylist, Fashion Artist, Image Consultant, Textile Designer, Make-up Artist, Wedding Planner, Costume Designer, Personal Shopper, Concept Designer, Hair Stylist, Interior Designer, Jewellery Designer, Object Designer, Visual Merchandiser.

 How to Get a Freelance Visa in Dubai?

 Obtaining a freelance visa in Dubai requires you to go through a lengthy process. Here are the steps you need to follow to obtain a freelance visa in Dubai:

 Prepare Documents: The first step in applying for a visa is to gather your documents. Preparing your documents ahead of time can help avoid unnecessary delays. Be careful when submitting documents, as incorrect information or documents may result in visa rejection.

 Apply for a Freelance Permit: To obtain a freelance license, you need to apply for a Dubai freelance permit. With this permit, you can legally work as a freelancer in Dubai. To obtain the permit, you must submit your application along with the necessary documents. The process typically takes about 5-7 working days, and once approved, you will receive your freelance permit via email.

Apply for an Establishment Card: Once you've received your freelance permit, you can apply for an establishment card. Submit your application online at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA) to obtain your establishment card.

 Apply for a Dubai Freelance Visa: After receiving a freelance permit and establishment card, you can now apply for a freelance visa, which enables you to work and live in Dubai as a freelancer. You need to submit all the necessary documents and pay the application fees. Once your freelance visa is issued, you can also bring your family members to Dubai.

Types of Freelance Visa in Dubai

 For freelancers, there are different types of visas available in Dubai.

Freelance Visa for Dubai Residents

 Some individuals who are already residents in Dubai may require a freelance work permit due to their spouse's visa or parent's visa. Such individuals can apply for a freelance permit even if they have a full-time job. In these cases, the applicant must obtain a No Objection Certificate from their employer or sponsor.
Freelance Visa for Non-Residents

 Individuals outside of the UAE who apply for a freelance visa are also eligible for a residency permit. This permit allows them to live and work in Dubai as self-employed persons.

Dubai Talent Pass

 To attract global talent, Dubai issues a freelance visa called the Talent Pass. This scheme is introduced by the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) with the aim of boosting the freelance workforce in the UAE, especially in the creative sector, which includes arts, media, culture, marketing, consultancy, technology, and education. Freelancers who hold a Talent Pass can obtain a 3-year resident visa and a license. Individuals with a Talent Pass do not have to rent an office space, while license holders can choose to work in an office space in the DAFZ.

  • How to Apply for a Talent Pass?

 Those who wish to apply for a Talent Pass must visit the official website of DAFZ to submit the application.

 https://www.dafz.ae/en/talent-pass/ 

  • What Is the Cost of a Talent Pass?

 You need to pay AED 9,500 to obtain a Talent Pass, and this can be renewed annually. The renewal fee could vary depending on the applicant's profile and the category of the visa they have applied for. 

  • Documents Required for a Talent Pass

These are the documents you need to submit to obtain a Talent Pass in Dubai:

  • Passport copy
  • Current visa copy
  • Academic qualifications/portfolio/reference letters
  • Proof of previous experience in the field
  • Updated CV
  • Service list and fees

 After your application is approved, the permit should be issued within 10 to 15 working days

 How Kiltons can help you get a Dubai freelance visa?

If you want to work in Dubai as a freelancer and explore unlimited work opportunities, then get in touch with Kiltons to obtain a freelance visa in Dubai. Our expert team of visa consultants can assist you in obtaining a freelance visa effortlessly. We offer our expertise and assistance at every step of the process to ensure that you obtain your visa without any difficulty. With several years of experience, we have helped many individuals obtain a freelance visa to work and live in Dubai. To experience a seamless visa acquisition process, seek professional visa services from Kiltons.

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