Freelance visa and permit
Freelancers can live and work in the UAE without forming a full company, through a freelance permit and matching residence visa.
Routes
- Free zone freelance permits for creative, media, education, tech and consulting professionals, from zones such as Shams, Fujairah Creative City and others.
- Authority-issued freelance permits for specific professions, sometimes with residence sponsored by the government authority.
- Green Visa for freelancers, a five-year self-sponsored option for qualified freelancers.
Freelance permit or company?
A permit is simpler and cheaper. A company allows employees, more activities, a corporate bank account and easier contracting with larger clients. Many freelancers move to a company as they grow.
Common questions
Can a freelancer open a bank account?
Freelancers can open personal accounts, and some banks offer accounts for freelance permit holders. A company broadens banking options.
Official sources
We check our guidance against these official sources. Always confirm current fees and rules before acting.