Planning to work independently in Abu Dhabi? The Abu Dhabi Freelancer Licence allows you to provide services within your approved business activities. If you also need UAE residency, the residence visa application is a separate process with its own requirements. This guide explains the licensing route, documents, application steps and costs to consider before applying.
Why Choose Abu Dhabi Freelance License?
The Abu Dhabi Freelancer Licence offers a route for individuals to provide approved professional services through a sole proprietorship. Benefits include working from home without a separate office and choosing from a range of approved activities. Discuss with our business setup consultant in Dubai.
Choose activities that match the services you intend to offer, and confirm the supporting qualifications and approvals before applying. Applicants who need UAE residency should also check the requirements for the related residence visa application.
Eligibility Criteria to Apply for Abu Dhabi Freelance Visa
The Abu Dhabi Freelancer Licence is available to UAE nationals and residents, including individuals in full-time employment. Your selected activity must be permitted under the licence, and you must provide the supporting documents required for your application.
ADRA lists a No Objection Certificate among the required documents. If you are employed or hold an existing residence visa, confirm whose NOC is required for your circumstances before submitting.
If you are currently outside the UAE or require a new residence visa, confirm your eligibility and the applicable licensing and immigration route before paying.
Required Documents to Apply for Freelance Visa
Prepare your documents separately for the freelancer licence and, where required, the residence visa.
For the licence, ADRA lists:
- Attested academic qualifications or supporting experience certificates
- A No Objection Certificate
- Professional certificates
Confirm which documents apply to your selected activity and circumstances through TAMM before submission.
For a residence visa application, obtain a separate checklist covering passport, photograph, current immigration status and any additional supporting documents.
Arrange translation or attestation where required for the specific document. Do not assume that every document needs MOFA attestation.
How to Apply for the Permit to Work Freelance?
1. Confirm Your Business Activity
Choose the approved activity that matches the services you plan to provide. Check the qualification requirements and any additional approvals.
2. Prepare Your Documents
Gather the required qualifications, professional certificates and NOC. Confirm the application checklist for your circumstances before submission.
3. Submit Your Licence Application
Complete the application through TAMM, provide the requested documents and pay the applicable fees. Respond to any requests for further information.
4. Receive and Review Your Licence
Once approved, check your licence details and authorised activities. Provide services within the scope of your licence.
5. Apply for Residency, If Required
If you need UAE residency, proceed with the applicable immigration process separately. This may include immigration file requirements, entry or status-change procedures, medical fitness testing and Emirates ID.
Freelance licence and visa processing times depend on document readiness, required approvals and authority review. Dahhan Business Services can assist with document preparation, submission and application follow-up.
Abu Dhabi Freelance Visa Package Cost
Dahhan Business Services offers an Abu Dhabi freelance package starting from AED 7,500. This is a consultancy package price, rather than the government fee for the freelancer licence alone.
Before proceeding, request a written quotation confirming:
- Licence validity and renewal fees
- Residence visa duration
- Establishment card and immigration registration charges
- Medical examination and Emirates ID fees
- Health insurance and status-change charges, where applicable
- Consultancy services and any exclusions
Your final quotation depends on your eligibility, current immigration status and the services required.
Can You Get Residency Through a Freelance Permit?
Yes, in many cases. Abu Dhabi allows eligible freelancer licence holders to:
Sponsor their own residence visa
Sponsor family members
Ready to get started? Contact Dahhan Business Services, the leading business consultancy in Dubai today for a free eligibility check and personalized quote.
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