How to Apply for a UAE Remote Work Visa (Virtual Working Programme)
With a virtual work visa, you can live in the UAE and work for a company outside the UAE. u.ae sets the main conditions. You must prove that your work is outside the UAE. You need a salary certificate that shows at least USD 3,500 per month. You can also show the same amount in another currency. You also need health insurance and a medical fitness test. The visa is valid for 1 year. You can renew it. Apply to ICP. If you will live in Dubai, apply to GDRFA Dubai instead.
At a glance
- Cost:
- Varies — confirm on ICP/GDRFA (plus medical, Emirates ID, and insurance)
- Total time:
- 1–3 weeks (end to end)
- Steps:
- 7 steps
- Where to apply:
- u.ae
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked every 6 months · next review due April 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UAE sources(October 2026).
0 of 7 steps
- Before You Go Self-check
Confirm you qualify
You must work for a company or organisation based outside the UAE. You can be an employee, or you can be a contractor. Your work must be done remotely. Your income must be at least USD 3,500 per month. You can earn the same amount in another currency. The federal rule is Cabinet Resolution 65/2022, Art. 50. It sets one income test for all applicants: USD 3,500/month. Check if GDRFA Dubai uses a different test before you apply. You cannot work for an employer based in the UAE on this visa.
Click to mark as done
- Fill / Prepare Varies
Gather your proof
Collect your proof. You need a letter or contract from your employer. It must show the foreign employer and your remote work arrangement. You need a salary certificate that shows USD 3,500 or more per month. You need bank statements. And you need health insurance. Make sure anyone can verify your income from your documents. A simple declaration from you is not enough.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay Varies
Apply to ICP or GDRFA Dubai
Apply on ICP Smart Services if you will live outside Dubai. Apply on GDRFA Dubai if you will live in Dubai. Dubai calls its programme the Virtual Working Programme. Are you outside the UAE? Then you get an entry permit first.
Click to mark as done
- Go Entry permit validity per issuance AED 500 status adjustment (if already in UAE)
Enter the UAE on the entry permit
Enter the UAE before your entry permit expires. Are you already inside the UAE? Then apply for a status change instead. It costs AED 500.
Click to mark as done
- Go Result typically same/next day Varies by emirate/centre
Pass the medical fitness test
You take a blood test and a chest X-ray at an approved medical fitness centre. The fee depends on the emirate and the centre.
Click to mark as done
- Go Same-day appointment
Complete Emirates ID biometrics
You give your fingerprints and a photo at an ICP service centre or another authorised centre. This happens at the same time as the residence process.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay Varies
Residence permit is issued
Your virtual work residence permit is issued for 1 year. You can renew it if you still meet the conditions. Check the current residence issuance fees in the ICP or GDRFA portal when you apply.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work for a UAE company on this visa?
No. This visa only covers work for a company outside the UAE. To work for a UAE employer, you need a different visa. For example, you can use an employment visa or a freelance permit route.
Can my family join me?
Yes, your family can join you. You sponsor them under the usual family sponsorship rules. Check the current salary and document requirements with ICP or GDRFA.
How long is the visa valid?
The visa lasts 1 year. You can renew it if you still meet the income and remote-work conditions.
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