Residence visa for working outside the UAE (virtual work visa)

How to get it, step by step

1. 1

   Check that your situation fits

   The visa is for people employed by a company outside the UAE who want to live here. If your income comes from a UAE employer instead, this is not the right track.

2. 2

   Gather proof of your work abroad

   You will need proof of work outside the UAE and a salary certificate of a minimum of 3,500 (three thousand five hundred) US dollars or equivalent in foreign currency. Ask your employer for both on company letterhead before you start the application.

   Documents:Proof of work outside the UAESalary certificate
3. 3

   Sort out health insurance

   A copy of health insurance is part of the required set. Get the policy in place first — it is easier than chasing it mid-application.

   Documents:Copy of health insurance
4. 4

   Take the medical fitness test

   A medical fitness test result is required. Book it at an approved centre once you are in the country and keep the result with your file.

   Documents:Medical fitness test result
5. 5

   Apply to ICP or GDRFA, Dubai

   You can apply for a virtual work visa to ICP or GDRFA, Dubai. Pick one channel and submit the full set of documents there.

6. 6

   Confirm the current fees yourself

   The official text we work from does not state fees or processing times for this visa. Check the current amounts on icp.gov.ae or gdrfad.gov.ae before you budget — we will not quote a number we cannot source.

Fees and timelines may change — verify with the official source.

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