table of contents
- Introduction
- Recruitment Executive Search
- What Is a Freelance License?
- What Is a Freelance License?
- How Do They Work Together?
- Why the Confusion?
- Cost Comparison: Freelance License vs. Freelance Visa
- Key Differences at a Glance
- Can You Work Remotely from the UAE with Only a Visa?
- What We Recommend
- How We Can Help
- Conclusion
Introduction
If you’re considering working independently in the UAE, you’ve likely come across the terms freelance visa and freelance license. Many people assume they’re the same thing, but in reality, they serve different purposes—and both may be required for you to legally live and work in the country as a freelancer.
Understanding the difference between these two is critical for setting up your freelance practice correctly. In this blog, we’ll break down each term, explain how they work together, and help you determine exactly what you need based on your situation.
Recruitment Executive Search
What Is a Freelance License?
A freelance license is essentially your business license. It gives you the legal right to operate as a sole practitioner in the UAE, offering services in a particular field (like media, technology, education, or consulting).
Once issued by a free zone authority, the license enables you to:
This license is typically issued to individuals rather than companies, making it perfect for one-person businesses or solopreneurs.
What Is a Freelance License?
A freelance visa, on the other hand, is your residency permit that allows you to live legally in the UAE while you work independently. It is issued after or alongside your freelance license and includes the following benefits:
The freelance visa is typically sponsored by the free zone authority that issued your freelance license.
How Do They Work Together?
To legally live and freelance in the UAE, you need both:
Freelance License
To work legally as a freelancer
Freelance Visa
To live legally in the UAE
Scenarios
Why the Confusion?
Much of the confusion arises because some platforms (like GoFreelance by TECOM) offer bundled packages that include both the freelance license and the visa under one umbrella. While this simplifies things for the user, it’s important to remember that these are two separate legal steps, and each has its own process and cost.
Cost Comparison: Freelance License vs. Freelance Visa
| Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Freelance License Only | 5,500 – 15,000 |
| Freelance Visa Only | 3,000 – 9,000 |
| Combined Package | 12,000 – 20,000+ |
Note: Prices may vary depending on the free zone, visa duration, and optional services like co-working space or health insurance.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Freelance License | Freelance Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Legal permission to work | Legal permission to live in the UAE |
| Issued by | Free Zone or Economic Department | Immigration Authority (via Free Zone) |
| Validity | 1 or 2 years (renewable) | 1 or 2 years (renewable) |
| Required For | Invoicing clients, operating legally | Emirates ID, bank account, utilities |
| Included in Package? | Sometimes bundled, sometimes separate | Often an add-on, based on the package |
Can You Work Remotely from the UAE with Only a Visa?
No. Simply holding a freelance visa without a license doesn’t grant you the legal right to offer services in the UAE. You must hold a valid freelance license to work with UAE-based clients or run a freelance practice legally.
Similarly, having a freelance license without a valid visa (if you are not already a UAE resident) means you can’t live in the UAE—even if your business is registered.
What We Recommend
If you’re unsure whether you need just a license, just a visa, or both, here’s a quick decision guide:
| Your Situation | What You Need |
|---|---|
| Already living in UAE (on spouse/employment visa) | Freelance License + NOC from sponsor |
| Living outside UAE, want to move and freelance | Freelance License + Freelance Visa |
| Remote freelancer working with global clients | Freelance License (and Visa if living in UAE) |
| Want to sponsor family members in UAE | Freelance Visa (with valid Emirates ID) |
How We Can Help
Our team specializes in freelance visa and license setup across the UAE. We guide you through:
Whether you’re a first-time freelancer or relocating your career to the UAE, we offer customized packages that suit your budget and timeline.
Conclusion
While both the freelance license and freelance visa are essential, they serve different functions. Together, they allow you to live and work independently in one of the world’s fastest-growing freelance markets.
Knowing the difference—and getting the right support—can save you time, money, and a lot of confusion.
Need help choosing the right setup?
Contact us today for a free consultation and get expert advice tailored to your freelance goals.
