Do I need a work permit if I am working remotely for a company with no office in the UAE?

Welcome.

Since you are on a UAE-dependent visa, you do not need a new work permit if you are working for a foreign company (like the USA-based consultancy) that does not have an office in the UAE.

However, you will likely need a "Freelance Permit" or a "Temporary Work Permit" depending on your contract and nature of work.

These permits allow you to legally work as a consultant while remaining on your dependent visa. Many free zones in the UAE offer such permits for individuals working with foreign companies.

If you need assistance in obtaining the right permit or further legal advice, feel free to contact us. We are here to help you.

Best regards,

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We are honored to provide you with specialized legal support for your case.

If you have any further inquiries regarding your matter, we would be happy to assist you.

In your case, since you are working for a global organization with no office in the UAE, you will need to obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE).

This permit is known as a "Virtual Labour Card" and is specifically for individuals who are working remotely for a company based outside of the UAE.

To obtain this permit, your employer will need to submit an application to the MOHRE on your behalf. The application will require information such as your personal details, job title, and salary.

Once the application is approved, you will receive a virtual labor card which will serve as your work permit in the UAE.

Dear Questioner,

Thanks for your inquiry.

According to UAE labor law, any individual who is working in the UAE must have a valid work permit issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE). This includes individuals who are on dependent visas.

In your case, since you have a consultancy contract with a global organization based in the USA, you will need to obtain a work permit from MOHRE.

This work permit will be issued under the name of your employer in the USA, and you will be considered an employee of that organization while working in the UAE.

The type of work permit you will need depends on the nature of your work and the duration of your contract. If your contract is for a short-term project, you may be able to obtain a temporary work permit.

If your contract is for a longer duration, you may need to obtain a standard work permit.

It is important to note that the process of obtaining a work permit in the UAE can be complex and time-consuming.

It is recommended that you consult with a legal professional or your employer's HR department for assistance with the application process.

Additionally, you may also need to obtain a residence visa and Emirates ID card, which are required for all individuals working in the UAE.

These documents can be obtained through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

In summary, as an individual on a dependent visa, you will need to obtain a work permit from MOHRE in order to work in the UAE.

Kindly do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email for further guidance.

Greetings

You will need a freelance permit or similar work authorization if working as a consultant while on a dependent visa in the UAE.

Thank you for reaching out with your inquiry.

As a UAE resident on a dependent visa, engaging in consultancy work for a foreign organization without a UAE presence requires compliance with local regulations.

To legally offer your services, you should obtain a freelance permit, which allows residents to work independently within the UAE.

The UAE offers freelance permits through various free zones, each catering to different professional sectors.

For instance, Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City provide freelance permits for media and technology professionals. These permits enable you to operate as a freelancer, offering services to clients both within and outside the UAE.

Additionally, the UAE has introduced the Green Visa, a type of residence visa that allows freelancers and self-employed individuals to sponsor themselves for five years, eliminating the need for a UAE national or employer sponsor.

To be eligible, you must obtain a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation and provide proof of a bachelor's degree or specialized diploma, along with evidence of annual income from self-employment or proof of financial solvency.

It's important to note that while on a dependent visa, you are not permitted to work without the appropriate authorization.

Obtaining a freelance permit ensures you are compliant with UAE labor laws and can legally provide consultancy services.

I recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss your specific situation in detail and guide you through the application process for the appropriate permit.

Please feel free to reach out to me via WhatsApp or phone to discuss this further.

Best regards,

Suhail Rana