How Indians Can Apply for a Freelance Visa in Dubai?

A Dubai freelance visa is a residence permit that allows individuals to work in the UAE as independent professionals without being tied to a single employer. It is ideal for people in fields such as media, technology, design, education and consultancy. It offers the flexibility to take on multiple clients and projects within Dubai and internationally.

The process to obtain a freelance visa in Dubai starts with identifying a relevant Dubai free zone, which legally authorises you to operate as a freelancer. Once approved, you can apply for a freelance visa, which also serves as a residence visa, allowing you to live in Dubai for a period of one to two years.

Holding a Dubai freelance visa allows you to sponsor your family members, including your spouse and children, to reside in the UAE. This makes it an attractive option not only for independent professionals but also for those seeking long-term residency in Dubai.

The freelance visa is particularly popular among remote workers, entrepreneurs, and creatives who value flexibility and the ability to manage their own work schedule. It also provides access to Dubai’s business ecosystem, advanced infrastructure, and tax-friendly environment.

There are more than 40 free zones in the UAE, where investors and entrepreneurs can enjoy incentives and tax benefits. If you possess a freelance visa in Dubai, you can work in any of the following free zones:

• Dubai Knowledge Park
• Dubai Internet City
• Dubai Media City
• Dubai Design District

The Dubai Airport Free Zone is another arena where individuals can work. However, for the Dubai Airport Free Zone, you require a separate visa called the Talent Pass.

You are eligible to apply for a freelance visa in Dubai if you meet the following criteria:

• Are above 21 years old
• Hold a valid passport
• Have a valid permit to enter Dubai
• Hold a university degree or diploma
• Have passed the medical fitness tests
• Have no salary requirement
• Possess relevant skills in education, design, media, technology, and other related sectors
• Have no criminal records

Here’s the step-by-step process to apply for a freelance visa in Dubai:

Pick your freelance category

You have the choice to apply for a freelance visa in Dubai in different categories. Thus, your application process must begin with identifying the category most suitable for you. The most famous freelance categories and the relevant job roles are:

• Technology: Web developers, software developers, and IT consultants
• Education: Education advisors, trainers, and freelance teachers
• Design: Artists, graphic designers, or other creative professionals
• Media and entertainment : Content creators, journalists, videographers, and photographers

Gather and arrange the required documents

You will need to submit certain documents with your freelance visa application. Ensure you have all the required documents, which contain accurate and updated information. A list of the required documents is given in the following sections. The most important ones are:

• A filled and duly signed application form
• A valid and original passport with 6 months’ validity
• A passport-sized photo following the visa specifications
• A portfolio of your work and education, including a degree, diploma, certification, employment letter, etc.

Apply through a media hub or free zone

A freelance visa is granted by one of the authorised media hubs or free zones. So, you must apply to one of the four free zones. Here’s some brief information about two of the free zones:

• Dubai Media City: This free zone is ideal for content creators, journalists, videographers, photographers, digital marketing experts, and others engaged in the media and entertainment sectors.
• Dubai Design District: This free zone is perfect for architects, interior designers, textile designers, apparel designers, and creative professionals.

Submit your visa application

Once you know which media hub or free zone suits you, submit your application. Please attach the required documents with your application form. You may need to attend a short interview.

After the designated authorities review your application, they may request additional information or clarification if required. Kindly respond promptly. The average processing time is 2 to 3 weeks.

Collect your freelance visa

You will receive an email upon visa approval. The validity period will be between 1 and 2 years. You can collect your visa from the authority or receive it via courier, based on your preference.

Completing further formalities

After receiving your freelance visa in Dubai, you must focus on completing tasks like obtaining a residence permit and opening a local bank account. It will be easier for you to start living in Dubai if you take care of these essentials.

The cost for a Dubai freelance visa depends on the free zone you’ve chosen. These include Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Design District, and Dubai Knowledge Park.

The following table highlights a breakdown of freelance visa Dubai costs:

You can pay this cost upfront or opt for a freelance visa Dubai instalment plan to pay the cost over time. The processing time for the visa application is around 8 to 10 days.

Here are the freelance visa Dubai requirements:

• Application Form: Fill out the required visa application form.
• Passport-sized photographs: Make sure the photos are in the required specifications.
• Valid passport: The passport must have at least 6 months’ validity.
• Proof of expertise: Provide documents showcasing your professional qualifications, such as a degree, portfolio, or certification, depending on your field.
• Proof of sufficient financial resources: Showcase your ability to sustain yourself while living and working in Dubai.
• Proof of work experience: Submit your work-related documents, such as an employment letter, updated CV or resume.
• No Objection Certificate from employer: If you’re currently employed, provide an NOC from your existing employer.
• Medical documents: Give recent medical reports and health insurance details.
• Proof of nationality: Submit authentic personal documents to prove your nationality and civil status.
• Police Clearance Certificate: This is required to prove that you have no criminal record in your home country.

With a Dubai freelance visa, you can work in the following job roles:

• Architecture
• Actor
• Apparel designer
• Animator
• Aerial shoot photographer
• Analytics freelancer
• Artist
• Audio
• Brand consultant
• Cameraman
• Choreographer
• Customer service
• Concept designer
• Costume designer
• Commentators
• Composer
• Content provider
• Copywriter
• Creative director
• Data Science
• Education
• Education advisor
• eLearning advisor
• Executive coaching
• Fashion artist
• Fashion designer
• Hair stylist
• IT consultant
• Interior designer
• Image consultant
• Jewellery designer
• Make-up artist
• Object designer
• Personal shopper
• Researcher
• Software development
• Telecommunication
• Trainer
• Textile designer
• Visual merchandiser
• Wedding planner

A freelance visa in Dubai is valid for a maximum of 2 years. However, it requires renewal every year. The processing time for a renewal is between 2 and 3 weeks, while the cost depends on the free zone. Generally, it ranges from AED 7,500 to AED 15,000.

To initiate the renewal process, you must submit your current 2-year freelance visa in Dubai, along with the required documents and the application form.

The step-by-step process to renew a Dubai freelance visa is as follows:

1. Fill out the application form with the required details.
2. Prepare all the required documents.
3. Undergo a medical fitness test.
4. Make the renewal fee payment.
5. Await your visa’s renewal.
6. Once renewed, collect your freelance Dubai visa.
   You will be notified about the renewal application’s approval via email within 10-15 days.

Before proceeding with the specifics of applying for a Dubai freelance visa, here’s an understanding of what makes the visa so popular:

Legal work and residency status

Holding a freelance visa gives you the legal right to live and work in Dubai without being confined to a single employer. This freedom means you can operate independently while enjoying the stability of UAE residency.

Freedom to choose clients and projects

You can work with multiple clients, both within Dubai and abroad, without restrictions. This flexibility allows you to diversify your income sources and explore projects that align with your skills and interests.

Access to modern-day infrastructure and business hubs

Freelancers with this visa can benefit from Dubai’s modern facilities, co-working spaces, and industry-specific free zones that promote networking and collaboration.

Residency benefits for daily living

Another Dubai freelance visa benefit is that it allows you to open a UAE bank account, rent or lease property, and access local services that require residency status.

Ability to sponsor family members

With a freelance visa, you can sponsor your spouse, children, or dependents, making it a suitable option for professionals who want to relocate with their families.

Tax-free income

The UAE does not impose personal income tax, meaning you can retain your full earnings and reinvest in your business or personal growth.

Opportunities for networking and career growth

Being part of Dubai’s vibrant free zone communities gives you access to industry events, workshops, and potential collaborations.

Convenient application and renewable process

The application process is relatively simple and can often be completed online, and the visa is renewable for long-term stability in Dubai.

Indian professionals aspiring to take their freelance careers to the next level and work in Dubai should consider applying for a freelance visa. The process is simple and the benefits are plentiful.
You gain international exposure, access an entrepreneurial ecosystem, and earn a tax-free income.

In addition to the freelance visa, it is advisable to invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
The policy keeps you safe during travel-related emergencies and ensures that you continue working without any hassles. The process of buying international travel insurance online is as straightforward as applying for a freelance visa.

At TATA AIG, you can buy travel insurance for every country you desire to visit for a vacation. You can get travel insurance for Dubai for as low as Rs. 25.60 per day. The plan covers you for delayed or lost baggage, accident and sickness cover, personal liability, travel assistance, and hijack cover.