FAQs – Dubai Freelancer Visa
What is a Freelance UAE License?
A Freelance UAE License allows individuals to work independently in approved professions across the UAE without being tied to a specific employer or company.
Who is eligible for a Freelance UAE License?
Anyone with relevant skills or expertise in approved professions, including UAE residents and non-residents, can apply for a Freelance UAE License.
Can I apply for a Freelance UAE License if I’m not a resident?
Yes, non-residents can apply for a Freelance UAE License and receive a residency visa as part of the package.
I want to get a Freelance UAE license, what is the process?
If you are a freelancer and wish to get a Freelance UAE license, please follow the below steps:
Step 1: Fill out the web form with the following mandatory information:
- Name
- Contact number
- Nationality
- Email Id
- Profession
Step 2: Upon submission of the request, you will receive a confirmation email and an expert will be assigned to you.
Step 3: The assigned expert will contact you and activate the login details for the application submission.
Step 4: Your assigned expert will guide you to fill in mandatory fields, upload the required documents, and support you with the payment and application submission.
Step 5: Once the application is approved, you will receive a confirmation email including the FreelanceUAE licence.
Which documents or prerequisites are necessary for applying for the Freelance UAE license?
The following documents will be requested to initiate and complete your application:
- Passport – Mandatory
- Emirates ID (If a UAE resident) – Mandatory
- Proof of Address (If a non-resident) – Mandatory
What are the benefits of having a Freelance UAE License?
- Legal work authorization in the UAE
- Freedom to work with multiple clients or companies
- Low setup costs
- Option to sponsor family members
- No personal income tax in the UAE
Can I work for international clients with a Freelance UAE License?
Yes, freelancers can collaborate with clients locally and internationally, expanding their opportunities globally
Which professions are allowed under Freelance UAE license?
Currently, the below professions can apply for a Freelance UAE license:
- Fashion Designer
- Game Developer
- Music Producer
- Jewelry Designer
- Musician
- Interior Designer
- Event Planner
- Online Seller
- Visual Artist
- Photographer
- Web3 Consultant
- Dancer
- Makeup Artist/Beautician
- Translator/Interpreter
- Digital Marketer
- Author
- Promoter
- Software Developer
- Voiceover Artist
- Influencer/Blogger
- Graphic Designer
- Copywriter
- Model
- Web Developer
- Web3 and AI
- Researcher
- Personal Trainer
- Life Coach
- Events Moderator & MC
Do I need an office to operate as a freelancer in the UAE?
No, having an office is not mandatory. Freelancers can work remotely from anywhere in the UAE or even abroad.
Can I work for multiple clients at the same time?
Yes, a Freelance UAE License gives you the flexibility to work with multiple clients or companies simultaneously.
What are the categories for an E-seller?
Independent sellers who offer the following items online:
- Readymade garments
- Imitation Jewellery
- Gifts
- Perfumes
- Sports wear
- Footwear
- Sunglasses, handbags, and personal
- accessories
- Stationery
What does the Freelance UAE package offer?
The Freelance UAE package encompasses:
- Freelance UAE license
- Establishment Card
- Residency Visa, depending on the selected package
What packages are offered and what are their associated fees?
The following packages are offered:
Package 1: AED 4,020: 1-year Freelance UAE license, without a visa
Package 2: AED 9,136: 1-year Freelance UAE license, 1-year visa, and 1-year Establishment Card
Package 3: AED 14,136: 2-year Freelance UAE license, 2-year visa, and 2-year Establishment Card
What are the timelines for obtaining my Freelance UAE license?
You can expect it within 7-10 working days, assuming we’ve received all the required forms
and documents.
Am I allowed to sponsor my family under the Freelance UAE license?
Yes, under the Freelance UAE license, sponsoring family members is permitted.
Am I permitted to sponsor employees under the Freelance UAE license?
No, hiring or sponsoring employees is not permitted.
Do I need to register for VAT (Value-Added-Tax) under the Freelance UAE license?
VAT registration is compulsory if your annual earnings exceed AED 375,000. However, if your yearly income ranges between AED 187,500 and AED 375,000, VAT registration is optional.
How long is the Freelance UAE license valid for?
Its validity ranges from 1 to 2 years, based on the duration chosen during the application
process.
Is it possible to issue a Freelance UAE license in the name of a company?
The Freelance UAE license is strictly issued in the name of the applicant, using the format: Umar Farook FL 247635. Here, “Umar Farook” represents the freelancer’s name, “FL” is the designation for freelance, and the number signifies the account identifier.
Am I allowed to list multiple professions/activities under one Freelance UAE license?
No, you can only choose one profession for each Freelance UAE license.
Is health insurance required with the Freelance UAE license?
As part of the visa application procedure, the applicant must possess health insurance,
following the standard process.
Must I remain in the UAE to keep my Freelance UAE license active?
No, however, you’ll require a valid UAE visa to renew your Freelance UAE license once it expires.
Is it possible to open a bank account with a Freelance UAE license?
Yes, once the visa is issued, our banking team can guide and support through the process.
Is it possible to switch from a Freelance UAE license to a regular company licence or the other way around?
No, each stand as a distinct product and cannot be converted into the other.
How do I pay the Freelance UAE license fees?
You can settle the fees by adding funds to your balance on the online portal, using options like debit card, credit card, or bank transfer.
What is the cost of the visa under the Freelance UAE license?
The visa comes at no additional charge if you opt for the relevant package. However, please be aware that any expenses related to employee protection insurance or health insurance is the responsibility of the freelancer.
Under the Freelance UAE license, what is the company's classification?
The company type is “Freelance” with its sub-type being “Sole Proprietorship”.
If the application for the Freelance UAE license is declined, is there a refund policy?
Refunds for the Freelance UAE license fee are only applicable if the application is rejected, resulting in a full refund.
Are there any additional requirements to get the Freelance UAE license for a Personal Trainer?
Yes, you are required to submit your Personal Trainer Certification Documents when applying for this Profession.