The ‘Virtual Working Programme‘ (VWP) is a countrywide one-year Virtual Work Residency Visa that allows foreigners to arrive and work remotely anywhere in the UAE. Moreover, the primary purpose of this initiative is to entice talents, advanced skills, and expertise from all over the world.
How to apply for a Virtual Work Visa:
The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) stated steps to apply for the virtual visa. Firstly, submit the request to ICA if you are willing to work remotely in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah. Once your request gets approved, you can work remotely anywhere in the Emirates.
Steps to Apply for a Virtual Work Visa from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah:
- Log into the ICA website.
- Select Smart Channel Services.
- Log in using your account.
- Select remote work visa service.
- Fill in the required details – name of the person applying for the visa, passport number, Emirates ID, etc.
- Upload the requested documents.
- Apply and also pay the required fee.
How do you apply for a remote work visa from Dubai?
- Login to www.visitdubai.com.
- Fill out the remote work visa Dubai application (name, email address, contact details, country of residence, etc.)
- Upload documents and apply.
Requirements/Eligibility Criteria
- Passport with a minimum of 6 months validity.
- Health insurance with UAE coverage validity.
- For Entrepreneurs: Proof of company tenure for one year or more, subject to extension, with an average monthly income of US$3,500 per month or equivalent in foreign currencies and three preceding months’ bank statements.
- The individual must show proof of working or being employed outside the UAE and also demonstrate actively conducting remote work.
- For employees: A current employer’s proof of employment with a valid one-year contract, ensuring a minimum monthly salary of US$3,500, last month’s pay slip, and three preceding months’ bank statements.
- All applications (new applications and renewals) will be reviewed and administered by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD).
- Lastly, applicants must create a username and password, choose the required service label ‘Golden Visa,’ and submit their application through the GDFRA portal.
Benefits of UAE Virtual Work Visa :
- No local taxes or contributions are required.
- Remote employers face no compliance issues.
- Exceptional local infrastructure for remote workers.
- Considered one of the safest nations for travel.
Are you interested in working remotely In UAE? Apply Now.