Steps on how to apply for a UAE Digital Nomad Visa

Do you know that you can fulfil your dream of visiting the UAE with just the UAE digital nomad visa? Yes! At the moment, the UAE digital nomad visa is the most sought-after digital nomad in the globe.

Consequently, the increase in the idea of a digital nomad visa is due to increased demand for remote workers. Of course, the UAE is no exception. Remote workers can work and live in the UAE. However, you must prove that you are a remote worker and can support yourself throughout your stay in the country.

There are numerous benefits to living in Dubai. However, without a visa, your wishes will remain just wishes. Read on to find out how to apply for a UAE digital nomad visa and make your dream of living in Dubai a reality.

About the UAE

The discovery of oil placed the UAE on the map. However, what places it on the same level as first-world countries is trade. The UAE reinvested profits and revenues from its oil into investment, commerce, and infrastructure.

By doing so, trade and commerce in leading cities in the country, particularly Dubai, flourished, completely transforming its economy.

The United Arab Emirates consists of seven emirates, of which Dubai is the capital and largest emirate. Dubai did not become anything until it became part of the United Arab Emirates federation in 1971. Today, Dubai embodies modernity not only in architecture but also in experience.

Furthermore, Dubai in the UAE rose to a world-renowned city due to its luxurious shopping experience, high-end service, numerous world records and best locations.

And one thing that sets it apart is that it grew on an expatriate population of around 85%. Due to its thriving business environment, many of these ex-pats living in Dubai call it their home, making it a popular, multicultural destination.

What is a UAE digital nomad visa?

A UAE digital nomad visa is provided to foreign remote workers to work and live in Dubai with the possibility of annual renewal. Holding a digital nomad visa in UAE makes the holder immune to the country’s tax laws.

Furthermore, with the digital nomad visa, you can live in the country without applying for residency or citizenship.

In all of this, you cannot undertake a paid job in the country. Therefore, you must demonstrate a certain level of financial sufficiency.

The people eligible for this visa include global freelancers and remote workers from all walks of life. Although the UAE digital nomad visa allows entry into its territory, it is only available in Dubai.

What differentiates the UAE digital nomad visa from other UAE visas?

Even though UAE digital nomad visa is specifically for remote workers from foreign countries, it is significantly different from other UAE visas in many ways. The most prevalent difference is in the benefits it grants the foreign holders.

The digital nomad visa grants the holders access to live and work in Dubai for a minimum of one year. It grants the ex-pats access to all necessary services such as world-class facilities and communications and also allows them to renew their visa every year.
Remote workers can also travel with their families, provided they meet the digital nomad visa requirements.
However, remote workers or business owners cannot travel with their team members.
Foreigners holding the UAE digital nomad visa can open their bank account in Dubai. They are also eligible to obtain a line and an internet connection. Furthermore, foreign remote worker can enrol their children in local schools within the city.
The UAE digital nomad visa grants the holder immunity to paying taxes to the UAE government.
The visa and its privileges also extend to a remote worker for an international company. They can work and live in Dubai and renew their digital nomad visa annually.
In addition, the UAE digital nomad visa did not set any conditions about the possibility of employment in Emirati companies. Therefore, digital nomads can further explore and search for employment opportunities in the industries and entrepreneurship sectors.
With the UAE digital nomad visa, the state of Dubai offers remote workers a “Freelance Package”, enabling them to enjoy many services in the country at lower prices.

What documents do you need to apply for a UAE digital nomad visa?

If you wish to apply for the UAE digital nomad visa, below are the mandatory documents you should possess.

UAE digital nomad visa application form. Once you meet the visa application requirements, fill out the application form, print, sign, and stamp.
A copy of a digital passport photograph. A coloured passport against a white back having the face 80% visible.
A coloured copy of an international passport showing full name, nationality, date of birth, date of issuance, and expiry date. The passport must also be valid for six months before travelling.
Details about your travel itinerary.
Proof of accommodation
A confirmed travel ticket to Abu Dhabi and a third destination to continue the flight from Abu Dhabi Airport.
Statement of account from your bank within the last six months.
Proof of your address and identification
A letter from your sponsor
Flight reservation tickets
Visa application fee payment
Cover letter with all required details about the itinerary.
Travel health insurance certificate
Medical report
If you are a business owner, you must include proof of ownership of the company for one year or more, evidence of average monthly income of $5000 per month, and bank statements for the company’s account for the previous three months.

Note:

All documents should be submitted in “JPEG” format and must not exceed one megabyte. Also, the embassy can request the submission of additional documents with your visa application.

What are the steps to apply for a UAE Digital Nomad Visa?

The following are steps to apply for a UAE digital nomad visa.

Determine the type of visa and the local consulate where you will request the permit.
Download the application form from the UAE official immigration website.
On the first part of the application form, enter the required data, and include your date of birth, nationality, profession, and travel destination. The application should be in Arabic and English.
On the second part of the application form, enter the information on the passport as they appear. The passport number, its expiry date and the country of issuance.
On the next part of the applicant form, enter the data of the person submitting the application or inviting you. The residence number, the expiry date of the residence, the name of the sponsor, the address of the sponsor, and other data.
Pay the fees and make sure to complete the process correctly.
Submit your application to the embassy.
Wait for your visa review, feedback and issuance.

Recent UAE visa regulations on entry

#1. For visits

The regulation indicated that the entry visa for a visit is valid for 60 days from the date of its issuance. The UAE entry visa can be renewed for similar periods after paying the recommended fee.

Concerning an entry visa to visit a relative or friend, the visitor must be a relative or friend of a citizen or a foreigner residing in the country.

#2. Regulation on entry

The executive regulations of the Law on Entry and Residence of foreigners, specify eight types of temporary visit visas. These visas may be granted to foreigners to enter the country for a single trip or several trips. They can extend the visas on expiration.

#3. Classification of UAE visas

The classification of UAE visas is according to the purpose of the visit.

#4. Issuing of visas

The Federal Authority for Identity, Nationality, Customs and Ports Security, issues UAE visas to foreigners. However, you receive the visa after the approval of the competent authorities.

Also Read: UAE Transit Visa – Application And Requirements

Frequently Asked Question

How long can you stay in the UAE with the UAE digital nomad visa?

The UAE digital nomad visa allows the holder to stay in UAE for one year. During this one-year stay, they can live and work. Their children also can enrol in school activities. However, they are under obligation to renew the visa annually.

How much does the UAE digital nomad visa cost?

The cost for the UAE digital nomad visa is $287 per application. Because of the demand, the payment is slightly higher than other UAE visas.

What is the required proven income for obtaining the UAE digital nomad visa?

Foreign citizens applying for a UAE visa must have a proven income of $5,000 per month. This amount, however, is the minimum amount. The citizens must also provide a statement of account following the visa application rules and regulations.

How long does it take to process the UAE digital nomad visa?

Processing the UAE digital nomad visa doesn’t take a long time. Generally, it takes about two to five working days to process the digital nomad visa. However, the processing time can differ among embassies.

Conclusion

UAE is a place that every travel lover must visit. It features world-class infrastructure, outstanding attractions, shopping, desert safaris, and many more beautiful places. Getting a digital nomad visa is the easiest way to enter the best city in UAE.