Work remotely from Dubai

Q: Are there any restrictions on nationalities?

There are no nationality restrictions. However, Immigration reserves the right to reject applicants for national security reasons.

Q: Can I apply if I’m already a resident in Dubai?

No, this programme is not applicable to those holding a residency visa OR who have an application already under process for residency.

Q: Can I leave the UAE and then return once I have been approved?

Yes, you can have a multiple entry visa during the tenure of this programme; however you cannot be out of the country for more than 6 months continuously or your visa will be automatically nullified.

Q: Are you able to renew the visa after one year?

As this programme is for one year only, you will need to re-apply as per the standard application process.

Q: What services will I be able to access if I’m living in Dubai?

This programme will provide applicants with the ability to live in Dubai in a similar manner to residents, by providing access to phone lines, resident ID cards, banking facilities and the ability to rent accommodation or send children to school.

Q: Will I be able to rent a property myself, or will I have to book via a hotel or holiday homes operator?

It is possible to rent a property with the Emirates ID; however most private rentals are for a 1-year contract only. For short- and medium-term letting, you can look at holiday homes and hotel accommodation as alternatives.

Q: Is any currency acceptable for the monthly income?

Yes. However, the equivalent should be a minimum of US$5000 monthly.

Q: Will I be charged income tax while in Dubai?

The UAE does not levy income tax on individuals.

Q: Do I need a visa to work remotely from Dubai?

Yes, foreigners employed outside the UAE interested to work remotely from Dubai can obtain a virtual work visa for 1 year.

About
the programme

Why work in Dubai?

Eligibility

Applicants will need the following:

1. Passport with a minimum of 6 months validity.

2. Health insurance with UAE coverage validity.

3. For employees:

Proof of employment from a current employer with a one-year contract validity, a minimum of US$3,500 per month salary, last month's payslip and 3 preceding months’ bank statements.

4. For business owners:

Proof of ownership of the company for one year or more, subject to extension, with an average monthly income of US$3,500 per month or its equivalent in foreign currencies and 3 preceding months’ bank statements.
Proof of work/employment outside the United Arab Emirates and that the work is conducted remotely.
If applying for permits for family members, applicants are required to submit their valid health insurance and passport along with fee payment for each member.

*Note: Payment of processing fee does not guarantee approval of the application. Any subsequent fees may change based on the country of citizenship, on the application service required, and whether you are applying from the UAE or from overseas. You can also apply for the programme from Dubai.

All applications (new applications and renewals) will be reviewed and processed by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai (GDRFAD).

Applicants must create a username and password, choose the service required labelled 'Golden Visa' and submit their application through the GDFRA portal.

How Dubai has transformed into an education hub

What's included

Your virtual working programme is valid for 1 year. The programme grants you access to all the standard services that residents benefit from, including telecoms, utilities, and schooling while allowing you to connect to a global hub and a skilled workforce, composed of 200+ nationalities.

It costs from US$611 in total, including application fees, processing costs, pre-application medical exam and Emirates ID. We accept health insurance with UAE coverage validity, or travel insurance with healthcare coverage, which can then be changed to UAE health insurance once your visa formalities have been completed.

All applications (new applications and renewals) will be reviewed and processed by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai (GDRFAD).

Applicants must create a username and password, choose the service required labelled 'Golden Visa' and submit their application through the GDFRA portal.

Apply for an event permit

How to apply?

If you wish to apply online:

1. Log onto the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai (GDRFAD) portal.
2. Create a username and password.
3. Choose the service required labelled 'Golden Visa'.
4. Submit documents required and pay subsequent fees.

If you are in the UAE, applications can also be processed through AMER service centres:

Toll free number: 8005111.
International phone number: +971 4 313 99999.
Email: amer@gdrfad.gov.ae.

What you need to do:

1. Visit your nearest AMER service centre.
2. Submit the required documents to the service employee.
3. Pay the fees due for the service.
4. Submit the application.