Madiha Yaqoob
Are you a freelancer looking for a UAE Visa? Those seeking virtual work residence visas will greatly benefit from the announcement made by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) in the UAE. Freelancers who are interested in applying for the visa will no longer be required to be physically present in the UAE during the application process. They can easily apply online.
With this new change, those who wish to work remotely from the UAE can now complete the application process from their current location. This visa (virtual work residence) is only valid for one year (365 days) and can be renewed further under the revised terms and conditions of the visa by the UAE Government.
For visa applications, individuals can use the ICP’s website or the smart application (UAEICP). After the visa is approved, the applicant must enter the UAE within 60 days to complete the residence visa application process. In case of failure to enter UAE within the permitted timeframe, the permit will come invalid.
The virtual work residence visa is only available to applicants who hold a passport with a minimum validity of six months, have a recent photograph, and have a valid health insurance policy.
However, to be eligible, the freelancer needs to provide a bank statement showing an earning of a minimum of Dh360,000 for the last two years or the equivalent amount earned in any other currency. An applicant must also provide a salary slip from the previous month and three months’ worth of bank statements.
If an applicant does not meet the requirements, their application is declined automatically online after 30 days. It is important to note that the fee and financial guarantees are refundable if the request is declined by the ICP, in case the application is returned thrice for the same reason.
The fee for the virtual working program is AED350 per person. All applicants will receive the entry permit and all details in their email.
The new policy provides advantages for both employees and companies, as it allows individuals to be in control of the work they take up and companies to avoid the risks of retaining employees.
The minister stated that this would lead to an increase in productivity in the labor market, making individuals more valuable in the workforce. The introduction of the flexible work permit is expected to create up to 24,000 job opportunities by 2024, with businesses attracting and retaining a more diverse workforce.
The UAE aims to support this trend and attract a more diverse workforce and capital by having a supportive legal framework.
You can apply for UAE Freelance VISA here.
