The United Arab Emirates, with Dubai at its center, has become a thriving destination for global professionals, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. With nearly 88% of the population made up of expatriates, the country has developed flexible visa options to suit different work and lifestyle needs. Whether you’re planning to work for a local company, operate remotely, freelance, or invest, it’s important to understand the four primary work-related visas available: the Standard Work Visa, Remote Work Visa, Green Visa, and Golden Visa.
Standard Work Visa: An Employer-Sponsored Path
The Standard Work Visa is the most widely used option for expatriates employed within the UAE across private companies, government bodies, and free zones. It is employer-sponsored and usually valid for two to three years, with the option for renewal.
Applicants must first secure a job offer from a UAE-based organization. Once hired, they receive an entry permit to travel and then must complete a medical test and Emirate ID registration. The employer applies for the residency visa on behalf of the employee, with approval overseen by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
Key eligibility requirements include being at least 18 years old, holding a minimum high school qualification, and working in a role that aligns with the sponsoring company’s business activity. Employers must maintain a valid trade license and have no labor violations. While there is no upper age limit, companies hiring workers over 65 pay an additional government fee. This visa is also extended to household staff such as caregivers, drivers, and housekeepers.
Remote Work Visa: Work Globally, Live in the UAE
For digital nomads and location-independent workers, the Remote Work Visa—also known as Dubai’s Virtual Work Program—offers a unique lifestyle choice. It allows individuals to live in the UAE while remaining employed by an overseas company.
This visa is valid for one year and can be renewed. Applicants do not need a local sponsor and can even bring family members to live with them. To qualify, professionals must provide proof of remote employment with a non-UAE company, earn a minimum monthly income of AED 12,856 (approximately USD 3,500), and submit supporting financial and contractual documents. Successful applicants must enter the UAE within 60 days of visa issuance.
Green and Golden Visas: Long-Term Residency Options
The Green Visa was introduced to provide greater stability for skilled workers, freelancers, and investors. Unlike the standard visa, it separates the work permit from the residence visa and is valid for five years.
Holders enjoy extended grace periods of up to six months after expiry and can sponsor family members, including adult sons up to age 25 and daughters of any age if unmarried. Freelancers must show proof of income (minimum AED 360,000 over two years) and obtain a freelance permit, while skilled employees must secure a valid job contract with an annual salary of at least AED 180,000.
The Golden Visa, on the other hand, is a more prestigious residency option offering validity for 5 or 10 years. Designed for investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional professionals, and talented individuals, it requires no sponsor and offers wide-ranging benefits.
Visa holders can live abroad for extended periods without losing residency status, sponsor their spouse, children, and unlimited domestic workers, and ensure dependents remain in the country even if the primary visa holder passes away. Categories now also extend to educators, humanitarian pioneers, frontline workers, content creators, and even e-sports professionals.
