Freelance Visa & Permit in the UAE (2026)
A UAE freelance permit and a residence visa serve different purposes. Choose a permit that covers your work, then check whether you need a separate residence visa and what the complete application and renewal will cost.
Freelance permit prices: published examples
| Provider | Published price | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| GoFreelance (Dubai) | AED 7,520 | Provider says the freelance package does not include a visa; confirm current activities and extra charges. |
| RAKEZ freelancer permit (Ras Al Khaimah) | From AED 6,100 | Provider advertises residence visa eligibility; confirm visa and other fees and eligibility. |
Prices are published examples checked October 2026, not a ranking or all-inclusive quote. Ask each authority for current activity eligibility, permit renewal, visa, medical, Emirates ID and any additional charges. Use our business setup cost calculator for planning.
How to choose and apply
- Identify your exact activity and confirm it is available under the proposed permit.
- Ask whether your existing residence status is suitable or whether you need a new visa; confirm sponsor consent requirements where applicable.
- Request an itemised quotation for the permit, any residence processing, medical test, Emirates ID and renewals.
- Submit the identification, experience or other documents requested by the authority and complete its approval process.
- If obtaining residence, complete the applicable immigration steps and confirm the permitted start of work with the authority.
Green Residence for freelancers
The ICP Green Residence guide describes a renewable five-year residence for eligible applicants. For freelancers it lists a MOHRE freelance or self-employment permit, at least a bachelor's degree, specialised diploma or equivalent, and financial requirements including annual freelance income of at least AED 360,000 for the previous two years. Confirm current requirements and how they apply to your circumstances with ICP.
A free zone freelance permit is not itself an approval for Green Residence. Check which permit and residence route applies before paying for a package.
Freelance visa — FAQs
Is a freelance permit the same as a residence visa?
No. A freelance permit or licence authorises eligible independent work; residence permission is a separate matter. Ask the issuing authority whether your package offers visa eligibility and what residence processing costs.
How much does a UAE freelance permit cost?
GoFreelance lists AED 7,520 for its freelance package and says the visa is not included. RAKEZ advertises its freelancer permit from AED 6,100. Check current eligibility, inclusions, taxes, visa and renewal costs with each provider.
What work can I do on a freelance permit?
Permitted activities depend on the issuing authority and the specific permit. Check your exact work against its current activity list and confirm any professional approvals.
Can I work for UAE and overseas clients as a freelancer?
Describe your clients, where services are performed and the work you will do to the permit issuer. Confirm that your permitted activity and residence or work status cover the arrangement; client location alone does not determine eligibility.
Do I need an office to work as a freelancer?
Workspace terms vary by issuing authority and activity. Ask whether your package includes access to a desk, permits remote work or requires a specific facility, and check any workspace and renewal charges.
Can I hire employees using a freelance permit?
Rules vary by permit. GoFreelance says its freelance licence does not permit hiring or sponsoring staff. If you plan to hire, ask the authority whether you need a different business structure.
Can freelancers qualify for Green Residence?
ICP lists a freelance or self-employment permit from MOHRE, a qualifying degree or diploma, and financial conditions among the requirements for Green Residence. Check the current eligibility details directly with ICP; a free zone permit does not automatically confer Green Residence.
Do I need a new residence visa if I already have one?
Not necessarily. Ask the permit authority whether your current residence and sponsorship allow your proposed freelance work and whether it requires a sponsor no-objection certificate.
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Last updated: October 2026 · Maintained by the My Business Setup editorial team
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