Introduction
The demand for freelancing in Dubai is at an all-time high. With the rise of remote work and digital opportunities, many professionals are looking for a way to live and work legally in the UAE. This is where the Freelance Visa Dubai option comes in.
Among the available choices, the 2 years freelance visa stands out because it offers stability, affordability, and flexibility for long-term planning. Whether you are a consultant, designer, digital marketer, or IT specialist, this visa gives you the legal right to work independently in Dubai while enjoying the lifestyle benefits of the UAE.
What is a 2 Years Freelance Visa in Dubai?
A freelance visa in Dubai is a residence visa that allows individuals to legally live and work in the UAE without the need for a full company setup. It is designed for self-employed professionals who provide services to clients directly.
Unlike an employment visa, you do not need a traditional sponsor or employer. Instead, you sponsor yourself through a freelance permit issued by either a free zone or a government authority.
1. Who Can Apply?
- Freelancers working in media, IT, education, design, and consultancy.
- Entrepreneurs who want to work solo before setting up a business.
- Remote workers looking to base themselves in Dubai legally.
2. Benefits of a Freelance Visa in Dubai
- Work with multiple clients without restrictions.
- Lower setup and maintenance costs compared to a company license.
- Legal residence in the UAE, including Emirates ID.
- Access to banking, rentals, healthcare, and other resident benefits.
- Ability to renew and extend a visa easily for long-term living.
2 Years Freelance Visa Dubai Price Breakdown
The total cost of a 2 years freelance visa in Dubai depends on whether you apply through a free zone or directly through government channels. However, the common expenses remain similar.
Here’s a breakdown of the usual costs:
- Freelance Permit / License Fee: AED 7,500 – AED 12,000 (depending on free zone).
- Visa Application Fee: AED 3,000 – AED 5,000.
- Medical Test Fee: Around AED 700.
- Emirates ID Cost: AED 1,000 – AED 1,200 for 2 years.
- Visa Stamping & Processing Charges: AED 800 – AED 1,200.
2. Total Cost Estimate for 2 Years Freelance Visa
On average, the total cost for a 2 years freelance visa in Dubai ranges from AED 14,000 to AED 20,000.
Factors Affecting the Final Price
- Free Zone Selection: Each free zone has its own pricing structure.
- Nationality of Applicant: Certain fees vary based on nationality.
- Optional Services: Translation, courier, express processing, and PRO services may add extra costs.
- Dependent Sponsorship: If you sponsor family members, additional charges apply.
Additional Costs to Consider
While the above fees cover the main visa process, there are extra expenses to keep in mind.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for all residents in Dubai. Plans start from AED 1,500 per year.
- Office Space (Optional): Some free zones require a desk or shared office rental. Prices start from AED 500 per month.
- Renewals and Hidden Fees: Annual permit renewals, medical test renewals, and Emirates ID renewal fees.
Understanding these costs ensures you budget properly and avoid surprises.
Where to Apply for a 2 Years Freelance Visa in Dubai
You can apply through either Dubai free zones or the government channels.
1. Popular Free Zones Offering Freelance Visas:
- Dubai Media City (for media professionals)
- Dubai Internet City (for IT and tech freelancers)
- Dubai Design District (for creative professionals)
- Dubai Knowledge Park (for education and consultancy fields)
Free zones provide package deals where the freelance permit and residence visa are bundled.
2. Government Channels
Some applicants apply directly through Dubai’s official portals. This route may be slightly cheaper, but it requires handling the process independently.
Benefits of a 2 Years Freelance Visa in Dubai
Choosing the 2-year option has multiple advantages beyond cost savings.
- Long-Term Stability: Unlike the 1-year visa, you don’t need frequent renewals.
- Family Sponsorship: Freelancers can sponsor spouses and children under this visa.
- Flexibility: Freedom to work with multiple clients locally and internationally.
- Lower Costs than Company Setup: No need for a full office or trade license.
This makes the freelance visa the perfect balance between affordability and professional independence.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Freelance Visa
The process for applying is simple but requires careful attention to documentation.
- Online Application Submission: Register on the free zone or government portal.
- Upload Documents: Passport copy, photo, and educational qualification (if required).
- Freelance Permit Approval: Receive your permit to operate legally.
- Apply for a Residence Visa: Submit your medical test results, Emirates ID application, and biometric information.
- Medical Test & Emirates ID: Complete your health check and ID registration.
- Visa Stamping: Get your residence visa stamped in your passport.
The whole process usually takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the authority and nationality.
Renewal Cost for 2 Years Freelance Visa in Dubai
Just like the initial application, renewals require certain fees.
- Freelance Permit Renewal: AED 7,500 – AED 12,000.
- Medical Test & Emirates ID Renewal: AED 1,500 – AED 2,000.
- Visa Renewal Fee: Around AED 3,000 – AED 5,000.
1. Timeline for Renewal
Renewals should be started 30–60 days before visa expiry to avoid fines.
2. Renewal vs Initial Cost
Renewals usually cost slightly less than the initial application since some one-time setup fees (like visa stamping) may not apply again.
Is the 2 Years Freelance Visa in Dubai Worth It?
For most professionals, yes.
- Compared to the 1-Year Visa: The 2-year option saves money and reduces hassle.
- Compared to the 3-Year Visa: It balances affordability with long-term planning.
- For Freelancers & Remote Workers: It provides full legal work rights and residency.
If you want stability without high costs, the 2-year freelance visa in Dubai is a practical investment.
How Ripple Business Setup Can Help You with Freelance Visa in Dubai
Applying for a freelance visa in Dubai can feel overwhelming with all the costs, paperwork, and approvals. Ripple Business Setup makes the process smooth and stress-free by handling everything for you. From choosing the right free zone to preparing documents and securing your Emirates ID, our team ensures you save both time and money.
If you are planning to apply for a 2 years freelance visa Dubai, our experts can guide you with transparent pricing, fast approvals, and personalized support.
- Website: ripplellc.ae
- Phone: +971 50 593 8101
- Email: info@ripplellc.ae
- WhatsApp: +971 4 250 0833
FAQ
Q1: What is the cheapest freelance visa in Dubai?
The cheapest freelance visa is usually offered by Dubai Media City or Knowledge Park, with packages starting from around AED 7,500 for the permit.
Q2: Can I pay for the visa in installments?
Yes, some free zones and consultancies allow installment payment plans for the visa and permit fees.
Q3: Do I need a sponsor for a freelance visa?
No. You sponsor yourself through the freelance permit issued by the free zone or authority.
Q4: How much time does it take to get approval?
The process takes 2–4 weeks on average, depending on the free zone and nationality.
Q5: Can I switch from a freelance visa to a company license?
Yes, many free zones allow you to upgrade your freelance permit into a full company license when your business grows.
Conclusion
A 2 years freelance visa Dubai is the perfect solution for independent professionals who want legal residency and work rights without the high costs of a company setup.
With an average total price between AED 14,000 – AED 20,000, it covers your freelance permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and visa stamping. While additional costs like insurance and renewals apply, the benefits of stability, flexibility, and family sponsorship make it worth the investment.
If you plan to work as a freelancer in Dubai, understanding the cost breakdown helps you plan your finances and avoid delays. Always apply through reliable authorities or consultancies to ensure a smooth application.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general guidance only. Visa costs, requirements, and procedures in Dubai may change based on government policies. Please check with official authorities or a licensed consultancy like Ripple Business Setup for the latest updates.