Dubai has become a hub for professionals and entrepreneurs, attracting individuals from all over the world. Among the various visa options available, the freelancer visa and the Azad visa are often discussed. This guide explores these two options, highlighting their differences, costs, and benefits.
Table of Contents
What is an Azad Visa?
An Azad visa, commonly referred to as a “freelancer visa” in informal contexts, involves a company selling its visa quota to individuals. Here’s how it works:
Visa and NOC: A company issues a visa under their name and provides a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the individual.
Employee-like Status: The individual is treated as an employee of the company but is free to work with other employers within the UAE.
Salary Transfer Support: The host company may help by transferring salaries to the individual’s bank account, creating financial statements necessary for applications such as tourist visas to the US, UK, or Schengen countries.
Legal Gray Area: While this practice is not strictly legal or illegal, it is widely adopted. Companies with unused employment quotas often sell these visas for a profit, usually charging around 10,000 AED for a two-year visa and related services.
Why Choose an Azad Visa?
Job Flexibility: It allows individuals to work with multiple employers without being tied to a single work visa.
Cost Savings for Employers: Companies often prefer hiring individuals on an Azad visa to save on work visa costs.
Pathway to Other Opportunities: Many Pakistani nationals and others from South Asia use this visa to establish UAE residency, improving their chances of obtaining tourist visas to Western countries.
How does obtaining an Azad visa work?
An Azad visa involves a company sponsoring you for a two-year visa in exchange for a one-time fee. You typically pay 25% of the cost upfront, and the remaining amount after the visa is stamped in your passport.
Is obtaining an Azad visa common among expats?
Yes, many expats choose the Azad visa route to gain UAE residency and flexible work opportunities. This practise is not limited to pakistanis, Indians, bangaladeshis and even Arabs from Syria, Egypt, etc do this all the time.
Are there risks associated with Azad visas?
Yes, fraudulent companies can pose a risk. It’s crucial to verify the sponsoring company’s legitimacy before proceeding.
How can I ensure the sponsoring company for my Azad visa is legitimate?
Request the company’s trade license and other documentation as proof. These documents are essential if issues arise later.
What is a Freelance Visa?
The freelance visa is a legitimate and structured option for those looking to work independently in Dubai. It is offered through official channels like GoFreelance.ae, managed by TECOM and Dubai Development Authority.
Key Features for Freelance Visa Dubai:
Freelance License and Permit: Obtaining a freelance license allows you to legally perform freelance activities in Dubai.
No Employer Dependency: You act as both employer and employee, enjoying full control over your work contracts.
Cost Breakdown:
License Permit: 7,500 AED/year
Establishment Card: 2,000 AED/year
Residency Visa: ~4,000 AED for two years
Process and Timeline:
Application for the freelance license and establishment card via GoFreelance.ae.
Visa processing, medical applications, and Emirates ID issuance take approximately 4-5 weeks in total.
Additional Benefits:
24/7 access to shared working spaces.
Legally perform freelance work across the UAE without restrictions.
Comparing Azad Visa and Freelance Visa
| Feature | Azad Visa | Freelance Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Legality | Operates in a legal gray area | Fully legal and recognized |
| Visa Cost | ~10,000 AED for two years | ~11,000 AED/year |
| Work Flexib | Allows work with multiple employers | Independent contractor for any project |
| Process | Managed by host company | Fully online via GoFreelance.ae |
| Emirates ID Issuance | Yes | Yes |
| Additional Benefits | NOC and salary transfer support | Access to shared working spaces |
Why Choose a Freelance Visa?
The freelance visa is ideal for professionals who wish to work independently and maintain compliance with UAE laws. It’s particularly beneficial for:
Creative professionals (designers, writers, developers).
Consultants and trainers.
Media and technology experts.
Outbound Links for Further Reading:
Conclusion
Both the Azad visa and the freelance visa offer unique opportunities for individuals looking to live and work in Dubai. While the Azad visa provides a cost-effective pathway for job seekers and residents, the freelance visa is a fully legal option for independent professionals. Choose the visa type that best aligns with your career goals and circumstances.
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