Question 1

Are there any restrictions on nationalities?

Accepted Answer

There are no nationality restrictions. However, Immigration reserves the right to reject applicants for national security reasons.

Question 2

Can I apply if I’m already a resident in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

No, the Virtual Work Visa is not available to those holding a current residency visa, or who are already in the process of applying for a different visa. However if you have entered Dubai as a visitor, you can apply for the Virtual Work Visa, provided you meet the criteria.

Question 3

Can I leave the UAE and then return once I have been approved?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Virtual Work Visa allows unlimited entries to and exits from the UAE. However you cannot be out of the country for more than six months continuously: if you are away from the UAE for six months or more, your visa will be cancelled.

Question 4

Are you able to renew the visa after one year?

Accepted Answer

No, you cannot renew a Virtual Work Visa, as it only lasts one year. However, you can make a new application for the Virtual Work Visa once your previous visa has expired.

Question 5

What services will I be able to access if I’m living in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The Virtual Work Visa will provide holders with the ability to live in Dubai in the same way as other residents, by providing access to phone lines, resident ID cards, banking facilities, and the ability to rent accommodation and send children to school. The only difference is the duration: the Virtual Work Visa is valid for one year, while other types of residence visa are valid for two or more years.

Question 6

Will I be able to rent a property myself, or will I have to book via a hotel or holiday homes operator?

Accepted Answer

Yes: once you have your Virtual Work Visa you will be issued an Emirates ID, which you can use to rent property. However, please note that most private rentals are for a minimum of one year – so you should aim to secure this as soon as possible after obtaining your visa and Emirates ID.

Alternatively, you could consider a short- or medium-term letting, such as holiday homes and hotel or hotel apartment accommodation as alternatives.

Question 7

Is any currency acceptable for the monthly income?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your salary can be in any currency. The only requirement is that your income meets the minimum level required for the Virtual Work Visa, when converted to US dollars at the prevailing exchange rate. Please note that exchange rates can vary significantly, so bear this in mind when making your application.

Question 8

Will I be charged income tax while in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The UAE does not levy income tax on individuals.

Question 9

Do I need a visa to work remotely from Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes,the Virtual Work Visa programme is specifically designed for people who work remotely for an employer, and who want to live in Dubai for a year. See the information above for full details and how to apply.

Question 10

How is a Virtual Work Visa different to other Dubai residence visas?

Accepted Answer

There are several differences between the Virtual Work Visa and other residence visas. First, the visa is self-sponsored – in other words, you do not need a local UAE company or individual to sponsor your residency.

Second, the Virtual Work Visa has a one-year validity period, compared to other visas which are valid for two or more years. If you want to stay in Dubai after a year, you can reapply to the programme.

Finally, holders of Virtual Work Visas are not allowed to be employed by, or do work for, UAE-based companies. If you wish to work for a UAE company, your employer will arrange a different type of residence visa for you.

Work remotely from Dubai