All about the UAE remote working visa
Many organisations across the world have allowed their workforce to work remotely. What mainly started as a response to the pandemic has now become a norm. Mega-corporations worldwide have embraced the method resulting in new job opportunities that eliminate geographical limitations. In 2021, the government announced the UAE remote working visa to attract talented workers. This visa has been designed for overseas professionals who would like to live in the UAE while still working remotely for their employers, who could be based anywhere in the world.
Let’s find out how one can apply for the visa, the documents required and more.
ABOUT THE UAE REMOTE WORKING VISA
Under the new visa policies, remote workers and their families around the world can obtain a one-year residence visa to live in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or any other emirate they prefer.
Those who get the UAE residence visa for remote workers can enjoy the best of the country, including the distinctive lifestyle, top-notch amenities and well-planned public services. From the best schools in Dubai to quality infrastructure in Abu Dhabi and seamless digital connectivity, there is little that is not available for residents. Also, the UAE’s new residence visa scheme applicants will be subject to zero income tax while living in the country.
Please note: This new one-year virtual working programme must not be confused with the long-term UAE residence visa.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR UAE’S NEW RESIDENCE SCHEME?
Anyone who wants to apply for the new one-year virtual working programme must meet the eligibility criteria. It includes:
- A passport which is valid for at least six months
- Health insurance that includes valid UAE coverage
- Proof of employment/ownership (in the case of businessmen)
- Employment contract/Company ownership documents with at least one-year validity
- Previous month’s payslip
- Bank statements for the three preceding months
- Those who wish to apply to live in Dubai also have to meet the criteria of monthly salary or average monthly income (in the case of businessmen) of at least USD 3,500 (approximately AED 12,856)
HOW TO APPLY FOR UAE REMOTE WORKING VISA
The application process depends on the emirate you choose to apply for the visa.
DUBAI REMOTE WORKING VISA
Visa applications are processed by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai.
- Visit the website and go to the Services tab.
- Click on Residency Services and then select Issuance of Residency without Work Permission.
- Next, click on Issuance of the Virtual Work Residence Permit and start service.
- Fill in the form, attach the required documents and pay the fee before submitting.
You can also submit your remote work visa applications in Dubai by visiting one of the Amer Centres located across the emirate.
The Dubai remote working visa application fee is as follows:
- Residence permit issuance fee: AED 200
- Knowledge fee: AED 10
- Innovation fee: AED 10
- Fee for applicants within the country: AED 500
- Delivery: AED 20
This fee does not include medical coverage or visa processing fee.
The issuance fee for a remote work residence permit in Dubai increases by AED 100 for each additional year beyond the initial two years.
REMOTE WORKING VISA FOR OTHER EMIRATES
Suppose you intend to apply for visas in the UAE capital, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah. In that case, the application has to be submitted via Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) website.
- Visit the website, click on the smart services channel and log in.
- Next, you will be able to choose the remote work visa option.
- Upload the documents, fill the form and pay the fee.
- Charges for visa processing and medical insurance will be separate.
The fee for submitting the application is as follows:
- Request fee: AED 100
- Issue fee: AED 100
- E-services fee: AED 28
- ICP fee: AED 22
- Smart Services fee: AED 100
Please note: the fee mentioned above is the standard fee as per the ICA Smart Services portal. This fee may vary based on the data variables entered in your application.
APPLYING FOR RESIDENCY
After your application is approved, you will be given an entry permit. Once in the UAE, you have 60 days to complete your medical and apply for residency. Here is how to perform the DHA medical report check online.
FAQS
CAN THE REMOTE WORKING VISA IN DUBAI OR OTHER EMIRATES BE RENEWED?
Yes, you can apply for renewal, provided all the requirements are met.
CAN REMOTE WORK VISA HOLDERS OPEN A BANK ACCOUNT IN THE UAE?
Yes, they can. Here is the general process to opening a bank account in Dubai. Similarly, they can rent a place and send children to school. One can consider these top schools in Dubai.
IS THERE A DUBAI VISA FOR FREELANCERS?
Yes, freelancers can settle in the city after applying for a Dubai freelance visa.
WHY LIVE IN UAE?
Dubai, like other parts of the UAE, has one of the best digital infrastructures in the world. Moreover, the CEOWORLD magazine listed Dubai as one of the top cities for remote working jobs out of 60 international commercial hubs. The infrastructure is incredible, and the government is constantly introducing new projects to fulfil the needs of residents.
Above all, the UAE is a safe destination brimming with possibilities and a wonderful place to bring up a family. With people from all over the world peacefully residing here, it is a country that embraces everyone like its own.
There are certain things to consider before moving to Dubai or any other emirate. These mainly include the required paperwork, preferred accommodation and your annual/monthly budget, among other things.
That’s all we have for you now. Stay tuned for more updates on everything happening in the UAE.
