Against the backdrop of a global trend towards remote work, the UAE government has started issuing visas to digital nomads — thus attracting intellectual resources to the country. This is a convenient option for freelancers who want to live in the Emirates.
Who can apply?
Remote workers as well as business owners can apply for the visa. There are specific requirements for each category of applicants.
For remote workers:
- Proof of salary or employment contract confirming employment in a foreign (outside of the UAE) company
- Monthly income of at least USD 3,500
- Bank statement for the last three months, showing salary deposits
- Copy of passport
- Health insurance policy.
For business owners or individual entrepreneurs:
- License or registration certificate confirming business ownership
- Bank statement for the last three years, showing income deposits
- Monthly income of at least USD 5,000
- Copy of passport
- Health insurance policy.
The Digital Nomad Visa offers its holder a number of opportunities:
- Live permanently in the UAE
- Enter and exit the Emirates an unlimited number of times
- Sponsor family
- Rent property
- Benefit from tax exemptions and banking services
- Use services of world-class medical and educational institutions
- Obtain visas for other countries in the UAE and easily travel around the world.