Green Visa (Freelancer / Self-Employment) in UAE
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The Green Visa is a 5-year self-sponsored residency for freelancers, skilled workers, and self-employed individuals — a middle ground between employer-tied visas and the Golden Visa:
- Freelancers: Must hold a freelance permit from MOHRE or a free zone authority (such as Dubai Media City, twofour54, or Fujairah Creative City). No minimum salary requirement for this category.
- Skilled workers: Employees in the first, second, or third skill level with a minimum salary of AED 15,000/month or a bachelor's degree (or equivalent).
- Self-sponsorship: Like the Golden Visa, Green Visa holders do not need an employer sponsor — a significant departure from the traditional kafala model.
- Extended grace period: If the visa is cancelled, you get 6 months to find new employment, switch visa types, or leave the country — compared to just 30 days for standard employment visas.
- Family sponsorship: You can sponsor your spouse and children on the Green Visa.
When does it apply?
- You are a freelancer or self-employed professional working in the UAE with a valid freelance permit.
- You are a skilled employee meeting the salary (AED 15,000/month) or education (bachelor's degree) requirements.
- You want more independence from employer-tied sponsorship without meeting Golden Visa thresholds.
What to Do If You Are a Freelancer Wanting to Get a UAE Green Visa
- Obtain a freelance permit from MOHRE or a relevant free zone authority if you are self-employed.
- Apply through the ICP smart app, ICP website, or GDRFA app — the process is similar to other residence visa applications.
- Provide proof of income or employment — salary certificate, freelance contract, or bank statements showing regular income.
- Register for health insurance — mandatory for all visa holders in the UAE (required in Abu Dhabi and Dubai).
What should you NOT do?
- Do not work without a freelance permit — freelancing without a licence is illegal and can lead to fines, deportation, and an entry ban.
- Do not confuse the Green Visa with a free zone visa — they are different products with different rules. A free zone visa is tied to the free zone; a Green Visa is self-sponsored.
- Do not let your permit lapse — renew your freelance permit and visa before they expire to avoid overstay penalties of AED 100 per day.
Common Questions
When does it apply — green visa (freelancer / self-employment)?
You are a freelancer or self-employed professional working in the UAE with a valid freelance permit.You are a skilled employee meeting the salary (AED 15,000/month) or education (bachelor's degree) requirements.You want more independence from employer-tied sponsorship without meeting Golden Visa thresholds.
What should I do if I am a freelancer in the UAE who wants to apply for the Green Visa?
Obtain a freelance permit from MOHRE or a relevant free zone authority if you are self-employed.Apply through the ICP smart app, ICP website, or GDRFA app — the process is similar to other residence visa applications.Provide proof of income or employment — salary certificate, freelance contract, or bank statements showing regular income.Register for health insurance — mandatory for all visa holders in the UAE (required in Abu Dhabi and Dubai).
What should you NOT do — green visa (freelancer / self-employment)?
Do not work without a freelance permit — freelancing without a licence is illegal and can lead to fines, deportation, and an entry ban.Do not confuse the Green Visa with a free zone visa — they are different products with different rules. A free zone visa is tied to the free zone; a Green Visa is self-sponsored.Do not let your permit lapse — renew your freelance permit and visa before they expire to avoid overstay penalties of AED 100 per day.