Applicants will be able to apply for UAE work visas remotely from abroad
The Russian Emirates publication reports that it has become easier to obtain a virtual residence visa for the United Arab Emirates. Digital nomads will be able to apply for UAE work visas from abroad.
Digital nomads will be able to remotely apply for a virtual resident visa for the United Arab Emirates, according to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports security.
The agency clarified that foreigners do not need to be physically present in the UAE at the time of submitting applications – this makes life much easier for those who work for foreign companies and want to get a work visa without attracting a local sponsor.
It is specified that resident visas for digital nomads are issued for a period of one year with the possibility of extension. Applicants can apply through the website or smart app (UAEICP), however they must enter the UAE within 60 days of receiving an entry permit and complete the residency procedures.
Applicants must provide for visa processing a passport valid for another 6 months from the date of application, a recent photo and health insurance covering healthcare services in the UAE. An entry permit will be sent to your email address.
The applicant must also submit proof of employment with a one-year contract from the employer and a minimum monthly salary of US$ 3,500, as well as a salary certificate for the previous month and bank statements for the previous three months.
The virtual visa application fee is just under US$100. If an applicant submits an incomplete set of documents, the application will be rejected within 30 days, and the service fees paid will be returned to the applicant within six months.
In Dubai, as previously reported, opened a service center for remote workers in order to attract them to live in the emirate. The initiative is being led by the Dubai Department of Economics and Tourism and Airbnb short-term rental portal.
Any remote worker who wants to live and work in Dubai can use the new service to find information on Dubai's entry and visa policy for digital nomads.
It is also reported that the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) of the United Arab Emirates has increased the amount of fees for issuing 10-year “golden” visas from 50 to 150 dirhams. Now the cost of obtaining a long-term residence includes the state fee, payment for electronic and intellectual services. The authorities have urged all foreigners interested in obtaining golden visas to check their eligibility in the UAEICP mobile application.
Applying is a service that involves an initial electronic approval for issuing a golden visa visas.
Earlier, the Abu Dhabi government extended the validity of “golden” resident visas for all categories of holders from 5 to 10 years. Holders of 10-year visas can sponsor spouses, children and parents of any age, and stay outside the United Arab Emirates for more than 180 consecutive days.
