The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made a significant announcement that promises to give global professionals looking to work remotely more flexibility.
Individuals can now apply for the virtual work residence visa without having to be physically present in the UAE, according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).
According to a media report, the announcement means that individuals can complete the visa application process from their current location, removing the restrictions that previously limited remote workers’ access to the UAE’s dynamic business environment.
Residence Visa for Working Outside the UAE
The virtual work visa is valid for one year and can be renewed subject to the visa’s terms and conditions. The visa allows foreigners who work outside the UAE to live legally in the country. The self-sponsored one-year visa allows individuals to enter the UAE and work under the terms and conditions of the visa.
Individuals must provide proof of remote work for an organisation outside the UAE, as well as a monthly income of USD 3,500 or its equivalent in another currency, in order to apply for the remote work visa.
Dubai’s Virtual Working Program
Dubai, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, has a virtual working programme similar to the remote work visa. Individuals can relocate to Dubai (from outside the UAE) and continue working remotely for their current organisation through the virtual working programme.
Who is the Virtual Working Program for?
The UAE’s virtual working programme is intended for people who live and work outside the Emirate, as well as entrepreneurs and start-up businesses who meet the eligibility requirements. Approved applicants are welcome to bring their families.
Duration of the Virtual Working Program
The UAE’s virtual working program is valid for one year and can be renewed upon re-application.
How to Apply for the Virtual Working Program?
Individuals applying for the virtual working programme must have a passport valid for at least six months and valid health insurance covering their residency in the UAE.
Individuals who are employed must provide proof of employment with a one-year contract, earn a minimum salary of USD 5,000 per month, and provide a salary slip for the previous month as well as bank statements for the previous three months.
Company owners must provide proof of one year or more of company ownership, an average monthly income of USD 5,000, and bank statements for the previous three months.
Cost
The virtual working programme costs USD 287 per person, excluding UAE medical insurance premiums and processing fees. It should be noted that paying the processing fee does not guarantee application approval.
Benefits
Individuals can access all services, including telecommunications, utilities, medical, and education, through the virtual working programme. The programme provides individuals with the benefits of Dubai’s robust and seamless digital infrastructure, global networking opportunities, and zero income tax.
Bottomline
In conclusion, the virtual work residence visa and the virtual working programme are exciting new opportunities for global professionals looking to work remotely in the UAE.
Dubai’s dynamic business environment, combined with its cutting-edge digital infrastructure and tax benefits, makes it an appealing destination for remote workers.
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