What is the UAE Virtual Work Visa?

The UAE cabinet introduced a new Remote Working Visa or the Virtual Visa in early 2021. The purpose of this visa is to bring into UAE talent and expertise from all over the world and allow them to work remotely from the UAE.

The Visa allows foreigners to enter and work within the UAE under self-sponsorship. It provides entrepreneurs the opportunity to innovate within Dubai’s safe and attractive business environment. These individuals can also sponsor their dependant family members through this visa.

Who is eligible to apply?

As mentioned, the Visa is for those residing and working outside the UAE including start-ups and entrepreneurs. As this initiative is currently only available in Dubai, these people can relocate to Dubai and continue working for their current organization remotely. This will allow them to utilize UAE’s world-class utilities, telecoms, medical and schooling, and take advantage of the seamless and robust global networking opportunities, digital infrastructure, and zero income tax.

When does this Visa expire?

The Visa expires one year after its issue and can be renewed upon re-application. You must enter the UAE at least every 6 months to keep the Visa valid.

What are the requirements?

There are different requirements for individual employees and company owners.

For individual employees:

1. you must have an employment contract valid for one year from your current employer as proof of employment,
2. you must earn a minimum salary of $5,000 per month, and
3. you must provide bank statements for the preceding three months and the salary slip for the previous month.

For company owners:

1. you must provide proof of ownership of your company for a year or more,
2. your company’s average monthly income should be $5,000 per month, and
3. you must provide bank statements of the company’s account for the preceding three months.

What documents do you need to submit?

In addition to the above documents for each category, you must submit your current passport with a minimum of six months validity and local health insurance or travel insurance covering the UAE.

How long does this procedure take?

It may take around one month to complete all the procedures to obtain the Visa.

How much will it cost?

The government fee for the Visa is $620 (AED 2,300) inclusive of application fee, processing costs, medical charges and Emirates ID fee. The renewal costs for the visa are the same. Payment of the fee does not guarantee that the Visa application will be successful.

How can you apply?

You can apply for the Visa through the Visit Dubai Visa portal. You will find relevant fields to submit all your documents and await the result of your application. This portal is linked to the UAE Immigration system.

You can easily access the portal with this link: www.visitdubai.com/en/business-in-dubai/dubai-for-business/work-remotely-from-dubai

 

This article was contributed by Sana Khan, Final Year Law Student - Middlesex University Dubai