UAE Green Visa for Self-Employed

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

Last update 15 September, 2025

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Quick Visa Facts

Visa length 5 years.

Possible to extend? Yes, as long as eligibility requirements are maintained.

Who can apply? Freelancers, self-employed professionals, skilled employees, and investors meeting educational and financial criteria.

Minimum Income Requirements AED 360,000 (~USD 98,000) annual income for self-employed applicants, or proof of sufficient financial solvency.

Time for visa applications Typically 2–6 weeks, depending on document completeness, medical fitness test, and processing through ICP or GDRFA portals.

Want to know if you can apply?

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Thinking about working for yourself in the UAE? The Green Visa for Self-Employed professionals could be the key. Unlike traditional work visas that tie you to a single employer, the Green Visa gives you the freedom to build your own career, whether that means freelancing, consulting, or running your own independent business.

Launched as part of the UAE’s vision to attract global talent, the Green Visa is designed for skilled workers and entrepreneurs who want long-term stability without the need for company sponsorship. With a validity of five years, flexible renewal options, and more generous family sponsorship rules, it’s quickly becoming one of the most attractive residence permits in the region.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the UAE Green Visa for Self-Employed, from eligibility requirements and documents to costs, benefits, and the application process.

UAE Green Visa Overview

The UAE’s Green Visa is a relatively recent innovation in the country’s immigration/residency system: first announced in 2021 and brought into effect in October 2022 under the new executive regulation for entry and residence of foreigners. It offers a 5-year residence visa that is self-sponsored (i.e. you don’t need an employer or UAE national to act as sponsor) for certain categories of people.

It is intended to attract and retain talent, especially freelancers, self-employed professionals, skilled employees, investors, entrepreneurs, and others with specialised qualifications, by giving them more independence, longer stability, and easier family sponsorship.

Who Is It For?

The Green Visa is designed for:

Freelancers/Self-Employed Professionals: those who hold a freelance or self-employment permit (from MOHRE) and meet educational and income/solvency criteria.
Skilled Employees: employees who have valid contracts in the UAE, are classified in occupational levels 1, 2 or 3 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), hold at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), and meet a minimum salary threshold.
Investors/Business Partners: people investing in or partnering in commercial licensing/business activities, who are not reliant on a sponsor, under the Green Visa framework.

What Does It Allow You to Do?

With a Green Visa for Self-Employed / the relevant category, you can:

Reside in the UAE for 5 years under a visa that you sponsor yourself, without needing a local employer or guarantor.
Renew that visa, as long as you continue to meet eligibility/category requirements.
Sponsor first-degree family members (spouse, children) under similar terms and validity as your visa. In many cases, children can be sponsored up to age 25.
Benefit from a grace period after expiry or cancellation (for Green Visa holders and their families), up to 6 months in many cases, giving time to renew status or make other arrangements.
Live and work (or conduct self-employment) independently, provided you maintain the necessary permits/documents (e.g., freelance/self-employment permit, proof of income or financial solvency).

UAE Green Visa Requirements

Below are the documents and criteria you must meet to apply for the UAE Green Visa (Self-Employed/Freelancer). This includes core documents that everyone needs, plus additional special requirements for this category.

These documents are required for nearly all Green Visa applicants:

Valid passport copy, with at least 6 months validity.
Recent passport-sized photographs.
Completed application form via the relevant official portal (e.g. ICP / GDRFA).
A freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Educational certificate (Bachelor’s degree, or a specialized diploma/equivalent) attested.
Proof of income from self-employment for the previous two years (if applicable).

Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency

One of the most important requirements is demonstrating that you can financially support yourself in the UAE.

You must show that your annual income from self-employment in the past two years has been at least AED 360,000.
If you cannot meet this exact income threshold, you may alternatively provide documents that prove your financial solvency, showing you have sufficient funds to sustain yourself during your stay.
Acceptable evidence may include bank statements, audited financial accounts, or official letters of income.

This requirement ensures that only individuals who are financially stable and capable of supporting themselves can take advantage of the Green Visa.

Freelance or Self-Employment Permit

To qualify, you need official recognition of your freelance status in the UAE.

You must obtain a freelance or self-employment permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). This permit essentially serves as proof that you are legally allowed to operate as a freelancer or independent professional in the UAE. Without this document, even if you meet other requirements, your application will not be approved.

Educational Qualifications

The Green Visa for Self-Employed is aimed at skilled professionals. You must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree or a specialized diploma in your field. Your qualifications need to be officially attested, which may involve certification from your home country and authentication by UAE authorities. This condition underscores the UAE’s goal of attracting highly skilled and educated individuals.

Private Health Insurance

Health insurance is another key part of maintaining legal residence in the UAE. While applying, you may be required to present proof of valid health insurance coverage for yourself (and for dependents, if you are sponsoring them). This ensures that residents are protected in case of medical needs and that healthcare costs can be met without difficulty.

Travel insurance is not accepted; it must be long-term residency health insurance. You can find our recommendations for the best health insurance plans for digital nomads here.

How to Apply for the UAE Green Visa for Self-Employed – Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for the UAE Green Visa for Self-Employed professionals is done entirely through official government channels. You can submit your application either online or in person, depending on your emirate. Below is the step-by-step process:

Step 1 – Prepare Your Application

Before you begin, ensure you have all the required documents ready (see our Visa Requirements section). This includes your passport, photos, educational qualifications, and special requirements like proof of financial self-sufficiency and a freelance permit from MOHRE. Having these documents in the correct format (PDF or JPG under the portal’s file-size limits) will prevent rejections or delays.

Step 2 – Submit Online via the Official Portals

Applications are handled digitally through:

The ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) – available across the UAE, or
The GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) – if you are applying specifically in Dubai.

You’ll need to create an account, fill in your personal and professional details, upload the required documents, and choose the visa category (“Green Visa – Self-Employed”).

Step 3 – Pay the Application Fees

After submission, the system will calculate your fees, which typically include:

Residence visa issuance
Emirates ID application
Medical fitness test charges
Administrative and service fees

Payment can be made online using a UAE bank card or other accepted methods. Keep your receipts, as you’ll need them later in the process.

Step 4 – Undergo the Medical Fitness Test

All Green Visa applicants must complete a medical fitness examination at an approved government health center. The test usually involves a chest X-ray and blood tests. Passing this medical check is mandatory; your visa will not be issued without it.

Step 5 – Emirates ID Registration & Visa Stamping

Once you pass your medical test:

If you applied from outside the UAE, you’ll first receive an entry permit valid for 60 days, allowing you to travel into the country and complete the remaining steps.
If you applied from inside the UAE, your residency status will be updated without leaving the country.

Next, your biometrics will be collected for the Emirates ID, and your passport will be stamped with the 5-year residence visa.

Step 6 – Receive Your Green Visa and Emirates ID

After approval, your Emirates ID will be issued and delivered to your registered UAE address, while your passport is returned with the residence visa stamp. This officially grants you the right to live and work independently in the UAE for five years, renewable if you continue to meet the requirements.

UAE Stay Requirements

Holders of the UAE Green Visa for Self-Employed must maintain a valid residency status by complying with several stay requirements. The visa is issued for a period of five years and must be renewed before it expires if you wish to continue residing in the country. During that time, you are required to keep your freelance or self-employment permit from MOHRE valid, maintain proof of financial self-sufficiency, and ensure that your health insurance coverage remains active.

If you leave the UAE, you may not remain outside the country for more than six consecutive months, as exceeding this period can automatically invalidate your residence visa. In addition, Green Visa holders benefit from an extended grace period of up to six months after the visa expires or is canceled. This allows time to either renew the permit, switch to another visa type, or prepare to leave the country without penalties. These rules ensure that self-employed professionals living in the UAE remain compliant with immigration regulations while enjoying long-term residency flexibility.

How Much Does the UAE Green Visa for Self-Employed Cost?

The cost of obtaining a UAE Green Visa for Self-Employed professionals varies depending on the emirate, whether you are including family members, and additional services like health insurance. Here is an overview of the main expenses you can expect:

Visa Application Fee: Typically ranges from AED 2,000 to AED 4,000 (~USD 545–1,090) for the primary applicant, depending on the emirate.
Emirates ID Fee: Usually around AED 370 (~USD 100) for a 5-year card, including biometric processing.
Medical Fitness Test: Costs can range from AED 300 to AED 500 (~USD 82–136) per applicant, covering chest X-rays and blood tests.
Health Insurance: Private health insurance is required. Costs vary based on coverage, age, and provider. Basic coverage starts around AED 1,500 per year (~USD 410) for individuals.
Freelance / Self-Employment Permit Fees: Issued by MOHRE, fees generally range from AED 6,000 to AED 10,000 (~USD 1,635–2,730), depending on your profession and permit category.
Family Sponsorship Costs: If you plan to sponsor your spouse or children, additional fees apply, including visa stamping, Emirates ID, and medical testing for each dependent, which can add AED 3,000–5,000 (~USD 820–1,365) per family member.

These fees are approximate and subject to change based on government regulations. Be sure to budget for all associated costs, including renewals every five years.

Taxes for People With a UAE Green Visa for Self-Employed

One of the major advantages of holding a UAE Green Visa as a self-employed professional is the favorable tax environment. The UAE does not levy personal income tax, which means that salaries, freelance income, or business earnings are generally tax-free for Green Visa holders. This provides significant financial flexibility and makes the UAE an attractive destination for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs.

However, there are some important considerations:

Value-Added Tax (VAT): If you operate a freelance business or provide services in the UAE and your annual turnover exceeds AED 375,000 (~USD 102,000), you are required to register for VAT and collect it from clients according to UAE law. This applies regardless of your visa type.
Corporate Taxes: If your self-employment is structured as a company or registered entity, certain corporate taxes may apply depending on your business structure and activities. The UAE has recently implemented a 9% corporate tax on business profits above AED 375,000 (~USD 102,000), but freelancers may be exempt if operating solely as individuals without a registered company.
International Tax Obligations: Green Visa holders should also consider tax obligations in their home country, especially if they maintain residency or earn income there. Many countries tax global income, so consulting with a tax advisor is recommended.
Other Indirect Taxes: Import duties, municipality fees, and service charges may apply for certain activities, but these are separate from personal income tax and usually specific to business or property transactions.

Overall, the Green Visa allows self-employed professionals to legally reside and work in the UAE while benefiting from low personal taxation, but it’s important to stay compliant with VAT, corporate regulations, and international tax obligations if applicable.

Living in the UAE with the Green Visa

Holding a UAE Green Visa gives self-employed professionals and freelancers the freedom to live and work independently in one of the world’s most dynamic and cosmopolitan countries. The five-year residence permit allows you to establish your base in the UAE without being tied to a single employer, providing flexibility to pursue multiple projects, clients, or business ventures. With long-term residency, you can also sponsor family members, including your spouse and children, under favorable conditions, making it a viable option for professionals who want stability for both work and personal life.

Living in the UAE on a Green Visa also comes with practical benefits. You gain access to the country’s world-class infrastructure, healthcare, and educational institutions, and you can open local bank accounts, rent or buy property, and travel freely in and out of the country within the visa’s validity period. Additionally, the UAE’s tax-free environment for personal income allows self-employed professionals to retain more of their earnings, while maintaining compliance with necessary business regulations such as VAT registration if applicable. Overall, the Green Visa combines flexibility, long-term security, and financial advantages, making it an attractive option for freelancers and independent professionals looking to build their careers in the UAE.

Best Cities to Live in the UAE

Dubai

Dubai is the UAE’s most famous city and a top choice for self-employed professionals on a Green Visa. Known for its modern skyline, luxury lifestyle, and global business hub status, Dubai offers a vibrant freelance ecosystem, co-working spaces, and networking opportunities across tech, media, design, and finance sectors. The city also provides world-class amenities, international schools, and extensive transport options, making it ideal for both professional growth and family life.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, combines political and economic stability with a high quality of life. It is home to government institutions, multinational corporations, and cultural attractions such as museums and parks. Freelancers and self-employed professionals benefit from a more relaxed pace compared to Dubai, with a focus on long-term living, sustainable communities, and a safe environment. Abu Dhabi also offers excellent healthcare facilities and education opportunities, making it attractive for professionals with families.

Sharjah

Sharjah, located just a short drive from Dubai, offers a more affordable and family-friendly option for Green Visa holders. Known as the cultural capital of the UAE, it provides rich arts and educational experiences, while still offering easy access to the business opportunities in nearby Dubai. Sharjah combines a lower cost of living with a quieter, community-oriented lifestyle, making it a practical choice for freelancers and independent professionals looking for a balance between work and personal life.

Cost of Living

The official currency of the United Arab Emirates is the UAE dirham (AED). 1 AED = $0.27 USD (approx).

The average net monthly salary in the UAE is around AED 14,000, which equates to approximately $3,810 USD.

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:

Dubai

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $1,890–$2,430 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $3,240–$4,860 per month
Basic Utilities (electricity, water, gas) – $135–$190 per month
Wi-Fi – $81 per month
Public Transport – $0.80–$1.60 one-way
Groceries (2 people) – $405–$675 per month

Abu Dhabi

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $1,485–$2,025 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $2,700–$4,050 per month
Basic Utilities – $110–$160 per month
Wi-Fi – $68 per month
Public Transport – $0.54–$1.35 one-way
Groceries (2 people) – $351–$594 per month

Sharjah

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) – $810–$1,350 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) – $1,620–$2,700 per month
Basic Utilities – $95–$150 per month
Wi-Fi – $68 per month
Public Transport – $0.54–$1.08 one-way
Groceries (2 people) – $324–$540 per month

FAQs

Who can apply for the UAE Green Visa for Self-Employed?

The Green Visa is designed for freelancers, self-employed professionals, skilled workers, and investors who meet the eligibility requirements, including having a valid freelance/self-employment permit, educational qualifications, and proof of financial self-sufficiency.

How long is the UAE Green Visa valid?

The visa is valid for five years and can be renewed as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria, maintain your freelance permit, and keep your health insurance active.

Can I sponsor my family with a Green Visa?

Yes. Green Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children, and, in some cases, other dependents. Children can typically be sponsored up to the age of 25, provided you meet the financial requirements for family sponsorship.

Do I have to pay personal income tax in the UAE as a Green Visa holder?

No. The UAE does not levy personal income tax, so freelance or self-employment earnings are generally tax-free. However, you may need to register for VAT if your business turnover exceeds the required threshold.

What happens if I leave the UAE for an extended period on a Green Visa?

Green Visa holders must not remain outside the UAE for more than six consecutive months, or the visa may become invalid. The visa also comes with a grace period of up to six months after expiry or cancellation to allow for renewal or transition to another visa type.

Can I get help applying for the UAE Green Visa for Self-Employed?

If you need help applying for a visa, you can talk to Citizen Remote. Get specific advice from one of our experts, or outsource the entire application to our team.

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