Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have temporarily suspended the issuance of new freelance visas. While the reasons for the pause and its expected duration have not been announced, existing visa holders remain able to renew their permits as usual.

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The UAE freelance visa is a residency permit that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the country as self-employed professionals. It has become a popular option among consultants, digital professionals, creatives, and other skilled individuals who wish to operate independently without requiring local sponsorship.

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Here is the current status of the UAE freelance visa:

• New Applications: Applications for new freelance visas are currently not being accepted.
• Renewals: Freelancers who already hold valid visas can continue to renew them without interruption.

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There has been no official statement regarding when new applications will reopen or whether changes to eligibility or application procedures are anticipated.

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The suspension primarily affects individuals who were planning to apply for freelance status in the UAE. This may include remote workers, entrepreneurs, or professionals seeking to relocate and operate independently in the region.

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Current visa holders are not affected by the change and may continue to work and renew their visas under the existing framework.

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Contact and Disclaimer

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Should you have any questions regarding the above information, or require assistance with your immigration or global mobility matters, please don’t hesitate to contact our legal team at Hudson McKenzie. You can reach us by email at londoninfo@hudsonmckenzie.com or by telephone at +44 (0) 20 3318 5794.

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For office locations, please visit our Our Offices page.

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The information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.

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