UAE Remote Work Visa : the « Virtual Working Visa » in practice

The UAE offers a one year, renewable Remote Work (Virtual Working) visa allowing foreign employed professionals to live in the UAE while continuing to work for an employer or business abroad. Based on “UAE’s Remote Work Revolution: The Virtual Visa Advantage”, this practical guide sets out eligibility, documents, application pathway, rights and limits.

Purpose and scope

This route targets remote workers and digital nomads whose roles can be performed entirely online. It is distinct from a standard work visa: no UAE employment relationship is created and no local employer sponsor is required.

Core eligibility

• Employment outside the UAE (or ownership of a foreign business with valid corporate documents);
• Income proof meeting the prevailing threshold and health insurance valid in the UAE;
• Valid passport and, where applicable, bank statements and employer attestations.

Thresholds and forms are updated periodically, always check the latest ICP/GDRFA guidance before filing.

Application pathway (overview)

1. Pre check: compile evidence (foreign employment contract, statements, insurance, passport);
2. Online filing via ICP/GDRFA, pay fees, complete security checks;
3. eVisa issuance, entry to the UAE, then onshore formalities (medical, biometrics, Emirates ID);
4. Status activation and access to resident services (housing, banking, telecoms) subject to provider terms.

Rights, limits and compliance

The visa grants lawful residence while working for an overseas employer/business. It does not authorise taking up a local job or selling services in the UAE mainland without the appropriate setup (trade licence/free zone etc.). Holders must observe tax/insurance rules in their employment country and UAE residence conditions (duration, renewal, address, insurance).

Typical document set (adapt to official list)

• Proof of employment (signed contract) or foreign trade licence if self employed;
• Recent bank statements and salary certificate;
• Health insurance valid in the UAE;
• Passport and photo in required format;
• Other items as requested (criminal record extract, translations).

Good practice

• Consistency across contract, pay slips and banking flows;
• Insurance documentation explicitly covering the UAE;
• Timeline planning for eVisa, medicals and Emirates ID;
• Family sponsorship options where applicable.

Useful comparisons

Compared with the Golden or Green Visa, the Virtual Work route is shorter (one year) and focused on remote employment; it can serve as a bridging option before more permanent setups (company formation, switch of route).

The UAE’s remote work route offers a flexible way to relocate while retaining an overseas job. A clear, well evidenced application improves approval odds and eases settlement.

Our lawyers, who are experts in immigration law, are available to answer all your questions and provide advice. We offer face-to-face meetings or videoconferencing. You can make an appointment directly online at https://www.agn-avocats.fr/.

AGN AVOCATS – Immigration Law
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