Freelance Visa Abu Dhabi, UAE
Are you planning to work independently and build your own career in the UAE? Look no further, as Abu Dhabi offers freelance visa options for skilled professionals. It allows individuals from around the world to legally operate as self-employed professionals across various sectors like media, design, technology, and education. Full-time freelancers and beginners alike can benefit and thrive in Abu Dhabi.
Why get a freelance permit in Abu Dhabi?
- Legally work without needing a local sponsor
- Access to Abu Dhabi’s growing business ecosystem
- Sponsor your own residence and family
- Benefit from zero income tax on freelance earnings
- Enjoy world-class infrastructure, safety, and lifestyle
There are a few eligibility criteria you must meet. Depending on your profession, your freelance license will be issued either by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) or a licensed free zone authority. In both cases, the process is structured and smooth.
This guide walks you through everything you should know about getting a freelance permit in Abu Dhabi, UAE. It will help you navigate the requirements with ease, avoid delays, and ensure a successful visa process.
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Types of Abu Dhabi Freelance Visas
- Green Visa
- Freelancer License
This is a 5-year visa for experienced freelancers. To get it, you need a bachelor’s degree (or something similar) and proof that you made at least AED 360,000 in the last two years, or show you have enough savings. It’s perfect for full-time freelancers who already have a strong income and work history.
This visa is given by ADDED or free zones like twofour54 on the basis of a freelance license. You get a freelance license that lasts up to 2 years (or 5 years in some plans). After approval, you also receive a residence visa and Emirates ID by completing a medical test, getting insurance, and giving fingerprints. It’s a good choice if you’re just starting or working part-time.
Steps to Get a Freelancer Visa in Abu Dhabi
Start by choosing the freelance activity you want to apply for. You can choose from graphic design, photography, IT, writing, etc. Make sure it’s listed in the approved activities by ADDED or the free zone you’re applying through.
Prepare the set of required documents. Get them translated if required. Ensure the correctness and validity of your paper.
Go to the TAMM portal (for ADDED licenses) or the website of the relevant free zone. Create an account, fill in your personal and work details, and upload your documents Pay the license fee (around AED 800–1,200)
Once approved, you’ll receive your freelance license. This means you can now legally offer freelance services in Abu Dhabi.
If you’re applying through ADDED, you need to register your freelance license with the immigration system (called eChannel). Pay a deposit and service fee (around AED 3,200)
Now that you have your license and establishment card, apply for your freelance residence visa. Submit your entry permit application, take a medical test, get health insurance, and provide biometrics. Finally, you will have to apply for an Emirates ID.
Once everything is approved, you’ll receive your residency visa (usually valid for 2 – 5 years) and ID. Now you’re officially a registered freelancer in Abu Dhabi!
Can You Sponsor Your Family After Retiring in Dubai?
Common Mistakes & Solutions During Application Process
Incomplete Documents
What goes wrong: Applicants often forget required documents or submit expired copies.
How to fix it: Use an official checklist and double-check that every document is valid and up to date before submission.
Unaccepted Medical Test
What goes wrong: Submitting a fitness report from a clinic not licensed in the UAE.
How to fix it: Only get your medical test done at an authorized UAE government health center.
Poor Timing
What goes wrong: Applying too close to your travel date or letting old permits expire mid-process.
How to fix it: Apply at least 7 – 10 days in advance and track all deadlines carefully to avoid delays.
Benefits of Freelance Visa Abu Dhabi
No local sponsor needed
Work legally in UAE
Sponsor family easily
0% income tax rate
Access top facilities
Apply from anywhere
Cost-effective license
Open UAE bank account
Required Documents for Freelance Visa & License
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photo
- Updated CV or resume
- Attested degree or diploma
- Work portfolio or samples
- Experience letters (if any)
- No Objection Letter (NOC)
- Valid UAE phone number
- Emirates ID copy (if available)
- Health insurance proof
- Entry permit (for visa process)
- eChannel registration proof
Eligibility Requirements for Freelancers in Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Applicant must be at least 18 years of age with a valid passport
- Must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification (attested)
- Proof of relevant skills, experience, or a professional portfolio is required
- Minimum income of AED 360,000 over past 2 years (for Green Visa applicants)
- Alternatively, submit bank statements showing financial stability or savings
- Degree certificate must be attested and in English or Arabic
- If employed in the UAE, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer is needed
- Selected freelance activity must be approved by ADDED or free zone authority
- Mandatory completion of medical fitness test and biometrics
- Must obtain valid health insurance covering Abu Dhabi
- Freelance license must be registered through TAMM or free zone platform
- Establishment card registration is required for residency visa application
Tips to Apply for UAE Blue Visa
Meet the Criteria
The authorities have clear guidelines on the details of prerequisites for all types of permits. Ensure that you meet the requirements set by the government and that your documents are valid and correct.
Right Paperwork
Submitting invalid documents can result in delays or fines. Some cases may even end up in the rejection of the application. You have to ensure the validity and correctness of the documents & translation before submission.
Pick the Right Time
Ensure that your application, processing, and acquisition take place on the schedule of your choice. Applying late can cause many possible issues, including delays and even rejection of the permit.
How IBG Consultancy Helps You Get a Visa in 4 Simple Steps
Contact Us
Contact us to get a FREE consultation to understand your visa needs and prerequisites.
We Handle Your Documents
Our team prepares and organizes all required paperwork for a smooth application.
We Apply for You
We apply for you & speed up your process through our strong ties with UAE’s authorities.
You Get Your Visa
Once approved, we get your visa delivered to you. You’re ready to explore UAE!
Why Choose IBG Consultancy for Your UAE Visa Consultation
IBG Consultancy offers it all and more, including suitable packages for a wide range of preferences. Our years of experience and networking with the authorities in the UAE help us get you the best packages and processing time. Contact us today to get help applying for a Freelance visa in Abu Dhabi!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a permit and a license for independent professionals?
A permit lets you legally offer services, while a license includes access to official channels, government systems, and work authorization, together forming the legal base for independent work.
Can non-residents begin a self-employed career through this option?
Yes, non-residents can apply and later become residents through official procedures. It’s an opportunity for those outside the country to start their self-employed journey legally.
What kind of business activities are allowed under this setup?
There’s a wide range of activities such as design, content creation, and IT services. These are listed and approved by the Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi.
How long is the permit valid for self-employed workers?
Typically, the permit is issued for 2 years, but some packages extend it to five. This provides long-term stability for those looking to work independently and build careers.
What documents are needed to get started?
You’ll need your passport copy, attested education documents, updated CV, work samples, and, if already employed, a No Objection Certificate to support your application.
Can I open a personal or business bank account?
Yes. Once your paperwork and identification are processed, you can open a personal bank account, and in some cases, a corporate account if your business operations require it.
Is it possible to sponsor dependents under this setup?
Once your ID and work permit are approved, you can sponsor your family, including spouse and children, as long as you meet the income and documentation criteria.
How much does the whole setup generally cost for an Abu Dhabi Freelancer?
The freelance visa cost depends on where you apply, the authority, and added services. On average, total expenses range from AED 5,000 to 10,000 including all registration steps in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Is this process available for people working remotely or outside the region?
Yes. Those looking to start your freelance journey remotely can begin the application process online and finalize their documents once inside the country.
What happens if I miss a deadline during the freelancer setup process?
Missing key dates, like renewals or medical appointments, can lead to delays or penalties. Follow a step-by-step plan and keep reminders to stay on track during each stage.
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