United Arab Emirates•AsiaRemote Work Visa
At a Glance
2 days
From USD $287
Other charges may apply
1 year
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote work OK

Living in United Arab Emirates
Overview
1-year residence for remote workers employed by companies outside the UAE.
The Remote Work Visa, often referred to as the Virtual Work Visa, was introduced to allow talented professionals and digital nomads to live in the United Arab Emirates while continuing to be employed by companies based outside the country. This initiative is designed to attract global talent by offering a flexible residency option that does not require a local employer sponsor. The visa is valid for one year and is renewable, provided the applicant continues to meet the qualification criteria, allowing residents to enjoy the UAE's world-class infrastructure, safety, and lifestyle while maintaining their international career commitments.
To be qualifying for this visa, applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least $3,500 USD or its equivalent. Applicants are required to provide proof of employment, such as a valid employment contract from a non-UAE company with a minimum one-year duration, and bank statements covering the previous three to six months to verify their income. Additionally, applicants must secure health insurance that is valid within the UAE. The application process is streamlined and can be completed online, with a nominal fee of AED 200 plus 5% VAT, making it an accessible pathway for remote professionals seeking a high-quality living environment.
Cost Breakdown
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 1 year |
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
United Arab EmiratesGreen Residence for Freelancers/Self-Employed
United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
United Arab EmiratesRequirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be employed by an entity outside the UAE.
Must provide proof of remote work capability (e.g., employment contract or letter from employer).
Minimum monthly income of USD 3,500 or equivalent in other currencies.
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
Valid health insurance covering the UAE.
For business owners: Proof of company ownership for at least one year.
KEY CRITERIA
Min. Income
42,000 USD/yr
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Valid passport
Passport photo
Employment contract
Proof of income
Company letter
Health insurance
Proof of accommodation
Application Process
Gather documents
passport (6+ months validity), recent colour photo, proof of remote employment with an entity outside the UAE, and salary or bank-statement evidence of USD 3,500/month income
Obtain valid UAE-compliant health insurance covering the residency period
Apply via GDRFA/ICP smart services (log in with UAE Pass) or visit an AMER or Customer Happiness Centre
Pay the application fee of USD 287 plus the in-country issuance fees in AED
Receive entry permit (typically within 48 hours) and travel to the UAE within the validity window
Complete medical fitness test and Emirates ID biometrics after arrival
Collect the one-year virtual work residence permit
Related visas
More visas in United Arab Emirates
- Virtual Work Residence Visa
Digital nomad
- Student Visa
Study
- Tourist / Visit Visa
Business
Digital nomad visas in other countries

Living in United Arab Emirates
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