Other BriefingsApplying For A 2022 / 2023 Virtual Work Visa In The UAE
New regulations of use to Digital Nomads
New regulations have come into effect from October 1 that permit foreign holders of a UAE virtual work visa to work remotely – giving the option to live and work out of the UAE. The virtual work visa comes hand in hand with a one-year residency permit, useful for individuals looking to try a new career in the Emirates and for those who often fly between different locations but still need a base.
Applications can be made online with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), the immigration authority that issues visas in the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain.
How Do I Apply?
Before beginning the application process, it is important to note that when you apply for this visa, you need to be within the UAE – whether on a tourist or visit visa, or if you already have a virtual work residency visa, which you wish to renew. If you are already in the UAE, follow these steps to apply for the visa through ICP.
Starting The Process
Visit the ICP website – www.icp.gov.ae and under the ‘Services’ tab, click on ‘eChannels Residency & Citizenship’.
Find ‘Virtual Work Residency Permit’ and click the ‘Start Service’ button. You will then be directed to an application form, where you will need to fill out the following details:
Applicant information
In this section, you must enter your full name in English. This will be auto translated by the system into Arabic. You must also enter your email address and phone number.
Personal information
Enter your nationality, date of birth, place of birth, religion and marital status. Under this section you must also enter your qualification, company name, profession and monthly income. Note the minimum monthly income required is the equivalent of US$3,500 and you are required to provide proof of earnings from your bank or employer.
Identification information
Enter your UID number, visa file number and identity number.
Passport information
Enter your passport details, such as the country that issued it, issue date and expiry.
Completion & Payment
After you have completed the form, click on the ‘Next’ button and upload the documents.
Pay the application fee online via your debit or credit card.
After the application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email, with your application’s progress and reference number. Once the application is approved by ICP, you will receive an electronic version of the virtual work visa in the form of a PDF file.
Virtual Visa Fees
- Request fees – Dh100 (Dh100 = US$27.5)
- Issue fees Dh100
- E-service fees – Dh28
- ICP fees – Dh22
Total – Dh250
Required documents
- Passport copy
- Colour Photo
- A copy of Health Insurance – the applicant must attach a valid health insurance policy from an insurance provider based in the UAE.
- Your medical fitness test result (needs to be conducted in the UAE)
- Proof of virtual work, outside the UAE (employment contract etc)
- Monthly salary proof of a minimum US$3,500 (Dh12,855) or its equivalent in foreign currency
Individuals requiring assistance with this process or other related business registration and tax matters may contact us at dubai@dezshira.com for assistance.
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Middle East Briefing is one of five regional publications under the Asia Briefing brand. It is supported by Dezan Shira & Associates, a pan-Asia, multi-disciplinary professional services firm that assists foreign investors throughout Asia, including through offices in Dubai (UAE), China, India, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, Italy, Germany, and USA. We also have partner firms in Malaysia, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Thailand, and Australia.
For support with establishing a business in the Middle East, or for assistance in analyzing and entering markets elsewhere in Asia, please contact us at dubai@dezshira.com or visit us at www.dezshira.com. To subscribe for content products from the Middle East Briefing, please click here.
