Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa
Remote workers and digital nomads employed by or running a business registered outside the UAE.
The Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa is a UAE work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~AED 1,050 (US$287) application plus medical, Emirates ID and insurance) and processing time (~5-7 working days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa is for
Remote workers and digital nomads employed by or running a business registered outside the UAE.
A renewable 1-year residence for remote workers; it does not lead to permanent residence or citizenship.
Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa - eligibility criteria
- Proof of employment or business ownership for at least one year
- Monthly income of at least US$3,500 (or equivalent)
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity
- Valid health insurance with UAE coverage
- Recent payslips / bank statements
Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa (United Arab Emirates) is ~AED 1,050 (US$287) application plus medical, Emirates ID and insurance, with an indicative processing time of ~5-7 working days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at UAE Government (u.ae).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online (ICP/GDRFA, Dubai Virtual Working Programme) |
| Length of stay | 1 year, renewable |
| Work rights | Work remotely for a non-UAE employer/business only |
| Study rights | Can study |
| Government fee | ~AED 1,050 (US$287) application plus medical, Emirates ID and insurance |
| Processing time | ~5-7 working days |
| Route to PR | A renewable 1-year residence for remote workers; it does not lead to permanent residence or citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
A renewable 1-year residence for remote workers; it does not lead to permanent residence or citizenship.
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Common Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa pitfalls we fix
Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa cost?
The Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa government fee is ~AED 1,050 (US$287) application plus medical, Emirates ID and insurance. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at UAE Government (u.ae) before applying.
How long does the Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~5-7 working days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa lead to permanent residence?
A renewable 1-year residence for remote workers; it does not lead to permanent residence or citizenship.
Can I work on the Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa?
Work rights: Work remotely for a non-UAE employer/business only.
Who can apply for the Remote Work (Virtual Working) Visa?
Remote workers and digital nomads employed by or running a business registered outside the UAE.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Arab Emirates government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- UAE Government (u.ae) - official United Arab Emirates immigration authority