UAE Remote Work Visa: Requirements and How to Apply

01What the remote work visa is

The virtual work visa, also called the remote work visa, is for foreigners who work for a company outside the UAE and want to live in the UAE. According to the official UAE government portal, you enter the country under self-sponsorship, so you do not need a UAE employer.

02Requirements

• Employment outside the UAE. You must prove that you work for a company based outside the country.
• Minimum income. A salary certificate showing at least USD 3,500 a month, or the equivalent in another currency.
• Validity. The visa is valid for one year.

03Documents you need

• A copy of your health insurance
• A medical fitness test result
• Proof of work outside the UAE
• A salary certificate showing the minimum income

For help with insurance, see our healthcare and insurance guide. Once your visa is issued, you will also need an Emirates ID, explained in our Emirates ID guide.

04Where to apply

You can apply through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) or through GDRFA Dubai. The official page does not list the fees, so check the current amount on those websites before you start.

This visa is designed for people employed by a company abroad. If you work for your own clients, see our freelance visa guide. If you want to work for a UAE company, you will need a different residence visa, covered in the visas and residency guide.

FAQFrequently Asked Questions