UAE freelance visa update: New rules, renewal process and key updates explained

Dubai: Recent reports suggesting a temporary halt to the issuance and renewal of UAE freelance visas have been proven false. On Friday, November 7, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai (GDRFA) confirmed to Gulf News that freelance visas continue to be issued as usual through official channels.

Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA, dismissed the circulating rumours and clarified that authorities are processing freelance visas in accordance with UAE laws and regulations. He cautioned the public to rely only on verified government sources for immigration updates and not on unverified social media claims.

Al Marri explained that while the issuance process remains active, the GDRFA has intensified monitoring following recent instances of misuse. A small number of individuals were reportedly attempting to exploit the freelance visa system for personal gain. In response, the authority has strengthened its screening process to ensure all applications go through legal and authorised channels only.

Specialised inspection and monitoring teams have been deployed to oversee visa applications and the labour market. Their main objective is to prevent violations, curb illegal visa trading and protect individuals from fraudulent schemes.

Business and visa service providers assisting freelancers have noticed that applications now demand more supporting documents. According to Firose Khan, Managing Director of Arabian Business Centre (an Amer Centre in Dubai), this change aims to increase transparency.

“Some individuals were creating companies and selling freelance visas under false pretences, which is not allowed. Freelance visas are issued by free zone authorities and are subject to strict checks to ensure the applicant’s experience matches the field they are applying for,” Khan said.

He added that renewals now often require a bank statement to demonstrate active freelance work in the UAE.

“Authorities are checking if you have regular work and client payments that align with your declared profession. Transparency is key, freelancers must accurately declare their work activities and ensure they match their approved specialisation,” he added.

Sarah Negga, Relationship Manager at Luxe Incorporations, confirmed that most free zones are now asking for proof of qualifications, portfolios, client contracts, or evidence of prior work.

“Authorities want to ensure that your freelance activity genuinely fits your expertise. This applies not only to new applications but also to renewals, where officials may request additional documentation to verify compliance with local regulations,” she said.

Negga advised freelancers to stay organised and keep all contracts, invoices, and work evidence easily accessible to avoid processing delays.

Freelancers are reminded to renew permits on time, particularly those operating in the media sector, who must also renew through the UAE Media Council.

Negga emphasised that freelancers should not overstay their visa validity or work outside the scope of their permit, even temporarily.

“Being proactive with your paperwork and understanding the local labour laws can save you from unnecessary complications. Ensure that your freelance activities are properly registered under the relevant free zone or authority,” she noted.