UAE Freelance Visa Update (2025-2026)
Despite viral rumours of a “freeze” on freelance visa issuance, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA) confirmed on November 7 2025 that freelance visas continue to be issued and renewed as usual through official channels.
Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA, stated that the system remains fully operational, warning residents to rely only on verified government sources rather than unverified social-media claims.
However, authorities have introduced tighter verification and documentation checks after identifying isolated misuse cases. The goal: protect freelancers, prevent illegal visa trading, and reinforce transparency within the UAE’s labour and immigration ecosystem.
What Has Changed in the UAE Freelance Visa Process
1. Enhanced Screening and Inspection
- Dedicated GDRFA monitoring teams now scrutinise applications and renewals more closely.
- The checks focus on authenticity of documents, professional background, and proof of ongoing freelance work.
- This measure aims to stop individuals who previously attempted to sell or misuse freelance permits.
2. New Documentation Requirements
Free-zone authorities such as GoFreelance (TECOM), RAKEZ, TwoFour54, Fujairah Creative City, and Dubai Media City now require a more complete evidence package when applying or renewing:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Valid passport & Emirates ID | Identity verification |
| Proof of qualifications / portfolio | Demonstrates experience in declared field |
| Client contracts or invoices | Shows genuine freelance activity |
| Bank statements (3–6 months) | Confirms active income from freelance clients |
| NOC (if sponsored by another entity) | Ensures legal compliance |
| Updated business plan (for some zones) | Aligns activities with authorised category |
Business-service experts confirm that renewals increasingly require evidence of active work—bank transactions or invoices proving that the freelancer earns within their registered specialisation.
Expert Comment: “Authorities are verifying whether freelancers have consistent work and payments matching their declared profession. Transparency is key,” explains Firose Khan, Managing Director of Arabian Business Centre (Amer Dubai).
Proof of Professional Alignment Now Mandatory
Authorities want to ensure each applicant’s declared activity aligns with actual expertise.
Sarah Negga, Relationship Manager at Luxe Incorporations, confirmed:
“Free zones now ask for qualifications, portfolios, or prior work evidence. This applies not only to new permits but also to renewals.”
This change promotes accountability and professional integrity across industries such as:
- Media & content creation
- Consulting & marketing services
- Design & digital development
- Education & training
- Technical and creative professions
How to Renew a UAE Freelance Visa (2025-2026)
| Step | Action Required | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Collect Updated Documents | Passport, Emirates ID, bank statements, portfolio, contracts | Free zone or official portal |
| 2. Submit Renewal Application | 30 days before expiry to avoid overstay penalties | Free zone e-portal / Amer Centre |
| 3. Pay Fees & Medical/ID Costs | AED 7,500 – AED 12,000 depending on zone and visa type | Authorised centre |
| 4. Undergo Health Check + Emirates ID Biometrics | Standard for all visa renewals | DHA / ICP centres |
| 5. Await Approval | Average processing time 5–10 working days | Via registered authority |
| 6. Receive E-Visa & Residence Stamp | Download digital permit once approved | GDRFA / ICP portal |
⚠️ Tip: Freelancers in the media sector must renew both their visa and Media Council permit.
Staying Compliant as a Freelancer
- Renew on time – Overstaying or working beyond visa expiry can trigger fines.
- Operate within approved scope – Do not undertake activities outside your declared category.
- Maintain records – Keep contracts, receipts, and portfolio evidence for inspection.
- Pay corporate tax if applicable – As of 2025, freelancers earning above AED 375,000 must register for UAE Corporate Tax and file annually with the FTA.
- Avoid third-party sponsorships – Only apply through recognised authorities such as GoFreelance (TECOM), RAKEZ, TwoFour54, and Dubai Media City.
Common Questions (FAQs)
Q 1: Can freelancers still apply for a new visa?
✅ Yes. All authorised free zones and GDRFA channels remain active. There is no freeze on new applications.
Q 2: What causes delays in approval?
Incomplete documents, unverified client contracts, or unpaid free-zone fees. Provide accurate records and proof of active work.
Q 3: Do freelancers pay UAE Corporate Tax?
Yes — if annual profit exceeds AED 375,000. All freelancers must register with the Federal Tax Authority and file returns under the 9% regime.
Q 4: Can I work for multiple clients with one permit?
Yes, as long as the activities fall under the same approved specialisation in your licence.
How Affinitas DMCC Supports Freelancers and Consultants
At Affinitas DMCC, we guide independent professionals through the entire compliance cycle — from visa setup to corporate tax filing and renewal.
We provide:
- ✅ Mainland & Free Zone company formation
- ✅ Freelance Visa
- ✅ Corporate tax & compliance advisory
- ✅ Accounting & audit services
- ✅ Bank account opening support
📞 Call: +971 (0) 4 576 2903
📩 Email: in*******@af***********.com
Conclusion
The UAE freelance visa system remains open and strong — but with higher expectations of professional authenticity and legal compliance.
Applicants should prepare comprehensive documents, maintain clear financial records, and align their activities with their approved specialisation.
With proactive planning and expert support from Affinitas DMCC, freelancers can confidently renew, stay compliant with tax rules, and continue building their independent careers in the UAE.
If it is still open and active , why does Gofreelance portal say it is unavailable?