Freelancer Visa Services in UAE

Brightlink provides hassle-free Freelancer Visa services in the UAE, enabling professionals to live and work independently with full legal compliance.

Freelancer Visa in the UAE

The Freelancer Visa in the UAE is designed for independent professionals who want to live and work legally without being tied to a traditional employer. It allows individuals in creative, technical, and consulting fields to obtain a freelance permit and residence visa through various free zones or mainland authorities. This visa provides the flexibility to work with multiple clients, self-sponsor, and enjoy the benefits of living in one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs.

Easily sponsor your domestic worker and comply with UAE residency regulations.

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Freelancer Visa Benefits

  • Legal right to live and work independently in the UAE.
  • Freedom to work with multiple clients across industries.
  • Ability to self-sponsor without needing a local partner or employer.
  • Eligibility to sponsor family members under the visa.
  • Access to UAE’s thriving business ecosystem and networking opportunities.
  • No need for full company setup, reducing costs and paperwork.
  • Valid UAE residence visa with access to local services and banking.
  • Sector-specific freelance permits tailored to your profession.
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Complete Guide: Freelancer Visa Services in the UAE

Types of Freelancer Visas Available in the UAE

  1. Freelance Permit with Residence Visa
    Issued by various free zones, this permit allows you to legally work as a freelancer and obtain a residence visa.
  2. Freelance Visa via Mainland Setup
    Available for freelancers who wish to register on the mainland with a professional license.
  3. Freelance Visa via Free Zones
    Popular free zones offer freelance permits and visas with sector-specific licenses (e.g., media, technology, design).

Requirements for Freelancer Visa

  • Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity.
  • Proof of professional qualifications or experience (degree certificates, portfolio, references).
  • Completed application forms and photos.
  • Clear background check or police clearance (depending on free zone).
  • Health insurance (sometimes required).
  • Business plan or description of freelance activity.

Sponsorship Eligibility Requirements

  • Freelancers can self-sponsor through a free zone or mainland professional license.
  • No need for a local sponsor (unlike traditional company setups).
  • Must meet minimum age requirements (usually 18+).
  • Comply with the specific free zone’s sector and activity regulations.

Who Can Be Sponsored?

  • The freelancer themselves (self-sponsorship).
  • Immediate family members (spouse, children) subject to visa and salary requirements.

Fees for Freelancer Visa Services

ServiceApproximate Cost (AED)
Freelance Permit Fee7,500 – 20,000
Residence Visa Processing3,000 – 4,000
Medical Fitness Test300 – 500
Emirates ID Application170 – 370
Health Insurance (annual)Varies by coverage
PRO and Service Fees1,000 – 2,000 (Starting price)

Fees vary depending on the free zone and type of freelance activity.

Free Zones Offering Freelancer Visas

  • Dubai Media City
  • Dubai Internet City
  • Dubai Knowledge Park
  • Dubai Design District (d3)
  • Twofour54 Abu Dhabi
  • Sharjah Media City (Shams)
  • RAKEZ Free Zone
  • Fujairah Creative City

Each free zone offers specific freelance permits tailored to industry sectors.

Step-by-Step Process for Freelancer Visa in UAE

Step 1: Choose Your Free Zone and Activity

  • Select the free zone that aligns with your freelance profession.
  • Check the permitted activities and license types.

Step 2: Submit Application for Freelance Permit

  • Complete the application form and submit required documents (passport, qualifications, photos).
  • Pay the freelance permit fees.

Step 3: Receive Freelance Permit Approval

  • After review, get your freelance permit/license from the free zone authority.

Step 4: Apply for Residence Visa

  • Submit visa application along with permit approval.
  • Complete health insurance and medical fitness test.

Step 5: Medical Fitness Test & Emirates ID Registration

  • Undergo the required medical screening.
  • Apply for Emirates ID and attend biometrics appointment.

Step 6: Visa Stamping

  • Submit passport for visa stamping at the relevant immigration office.
  • Receive your UAE residence visa.

Step 7: Family Sponsorship (Optional)

  • Once visa is active, apply to sponsor eligible family members based on salary and accommodation criteria.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Freelancer Visa in UAE

Independent professionals, consultants, creatives, and specialists in fields like media, technology, design, and marketing can apply. You must meet the free zone’s requirements.

No. Freelancers can self-sponsor through free zones or mainland professional licenses.

Usually 1 or 2 years, depending on the free zone and type of permit issued.

Yes, subject to meeting salary and accommodation criteria set by the UAE government.

Freelance permit fees (7,500 – 20,000 AED), residence visa processing (3,000 – 4,000 AED), medical tests, Emirates ID, health insurance, and service charges.

Yes, the visa allows you to provide services to multiple clients without employer restrictions.

No, the freelance permit allows you to operate legally without establishing a full company.

Popular ones include Dubai Media City, Dubai Internet City, Dubai Design District, Sharjah Media City (Shams), RAKEZ, Fujairah Creative City, and more.

You must renew it before expiry by submitting required documents and fees to the issuing free zone or authority.

Yes, many freelancers start with a freelance permit and later transition to a full company setup or mainland license if their business needs grow. This process is usually straightforward and supported by free zones and business consultants.

Yes, most freelancer visas are renewable every 1-2 years, provided you continue to meet the free zone’s requirements and pay the necessary fees.

Absolutely. The Freelancer Visa lets you work with clients globally without restrictions.

Yes, health insurance is mandatory under UAE law. Many free zones offer insurance packages along with the visa.

Usually, applicants must be outside the UAE or have a valid visit visa to start the process, but requirements vary by free zone.

Generally, no. Many free zones offer virtual offices or coworking spaces as part of the freelance permit package.

Start Your Freelance Journey in the UAE with Brightlink Seamless Visa Solutions for You and Your Family!