United Arab Emirates•Asia2 days
287 USD
1 year
Yes
Not Required
Allowed
No
Allowed

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 eligibility criteria, allowing residents to enjoy the UAE's world-class infrastructure, safety, and lifestyle while maintaining their international career commitments.
To be eligible 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.
Application fee (virtual working programme) | 287 USD |
Residence permit issuance | 200 AED |
In-country fee | 500 AED |
Knowledge Dirham | 10 AED |
Innovation Dirham | 10 AED |
Delivery fee | 20 AED |
| Initial grant | 1 year |
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
United Arab EmiratesMust 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.
Education
none or higher
Min. Income
42,000 EUR/yr
Valid passport
Passport photo
Employment contract
Proof of income
Company letter
Health insurance
Proof of accommodation
| Application Steps | Gather documents: passport (6+ months validity), recent colour photo, proof of remote employment wit… | u.ae |
| Fee Breakdown | Application fee (virtual working programme): 287 USD; Residence permit issuance: 200 AED; In-country… | gdrfad.gov.ae |
| Fees | USD 287 application fee per person; additional in-country issuance fees (AED 200 residence permit + … | u.ae |
| Official Info | https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/residence-visas/residence-visa-for-wor… | u.ae |
| Processing Estimates | {"minDays":2,"maxDays":2} | gdrfad.gov.ae |
| Processing Time | 48 hours | gdrfad.gov.ae |
| Sources | Dubai's virtual working programme — UAE Government Portal; Residence visa for working outside the UA… | u.ae |
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