Are you a freelancer looking for a UAE Visa? In an exciting development, freelancers can now secure a UAE Visa from the comfort of their own workspace.
If you’re a freelancer seeking a virtual work residence visa, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) in the UAE has some great news for you. No longer are freelancers obligated to be physically present in the UAE during the application process. This transformation allows them to streamline their application online hassle-free.
Applying for the Virtual Work Residence Visa
With this significant alteration, individuals desiring to work remotely from the UAE can seamlessly navigate the application process without ever leaving their current location. The virtual work residence visa, initially valid for one year (365 days), can be extended further under the revised terms and conditions set forth by the UAE Government.
Effortless Application Process
For visa applications, applicants have two convenient options: utilizing the ICP’s official website or the user-friendly UAEICP smart application. Upon approval, the applicant must enter the UAE within 60 days to finalize the residence visa application process. It’s crucial to adhere to this timeline, as failure to enter the UAE within the stipulated period will result in the permit becoming invalid.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this sought-after virtual work residence visa, freelancers must meet certain requirements:
- Passport Validity: Applicants must hold a passport with a minimum validity of six months.
- Recent Photograph: A recent photograph meeting the visa requirements is mandatory.
- Health Insurance: Applicants must possess a valid health insurance policy.
Additionally, freelancers need to demonstrate financial stability. They must provide a bank statement showing earnings of a minimum of Dh360,000 for the past two years or an equivalent amount earned in any other currency. Alongside this, applicants must submit a salary slip from the previous month and furnish three months’ worth of bank statements.
Application Assessment
If an applicant fails to meet these prerequisites, their application will be automatically declined online after a 30-day evaluation period. It’s important to note that the fees and financial guarantees are refundable if the ICP rejects the request, especially if the application is rejected three times for the same reason.
Cost of the Virtual Working Program
The virtual working program is accessible to all, with a fee of AED350 per person. Once the application is processed, all applicants will receive the entry permit and additional details via email.
A Win-Win Policy
This groundbreaking policy change brings forth numerous benefits for both freelancers and companies alike. It empowers individuals to have more control over the work they undertake, while companies can mitigate the risks associated with traditional employment.
The Minister confidently asserts that this initiative will significantly boost productivity within the labor market, rendering individuals more valuable assets in the workforce. Furthermore, the introduction of this flexible work permit is anticipated to generate up to 24,000 job opportunities by 2024, as businesses strive to attract and retain a more diverse workforce.
The UAE is wholeheartedly committed to supporting this upward trend, aiming to draw in a more diverse workforce and increased capital by providing a robust legal framework.
So, if you’re a freelancer eager to explore the opportunities the UAE offers, seize the moment and apply for your UAE Freelance Visa here. Your gateway to a world of possibilities awaits!
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