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UAE Remote Work Visa Opens: New 6-Month Income Requirement Introduced

January 29, 2026 4:36 am

UAE Remote Work Visa Opens: New 6-Month Income Requirement Introduced

The UAE is making strides to attract remote professionals with its Remote Working Visa. This program now includes a new six-month income verification requirement to enhance the application process. This visa allows foreign nationals to reside in the UAE while working for companies outside the country. With a validity of up to one year, it can be renewed as long as the eligibility criteria are met.

Key Features of the Remote Work Visa

No Local Sponsor Needed: Applicants don’t need a local sponsor or a UAE employment contract. They must be employees of overseas companies.
Updated Income Verification: Starting January 27, 2026, applicants need to provide six months of bank statements instead of three. This ensures that individuals demonstrate a stable income for at least six months.
Minimum Salary Requirements: Those applying must meet the minimum salary threshold set by the UAE government. While the exact figure varies, applicants must show proof of consistent income through their bank deposits.
Health Insurance Mandate: Remote workers need to have valid health insurance during their stay. They also need approval from their employer, confirmed by a letter stating no objection to their remote work from the UAE.

Application Process

Candidates can apply either from within the UAE or from abroad. Applications are submitted online, and accredited typing centers in Abu Dhabi can assist. As long as all documentation is complete, the application is generally a smooth process.

Fees and Timeline

The overall government fee for the Remote Working Visa is approximately USD 81. This fee doesn’t cover medical exam costs or the Emirates ID fee. The processing time typically ranges from five to seven working days, although this can vary based on the volume of applications.

Family Sponsorship

Visa holders can sponsor residence permits for their immediate family, including spouses, children, and parents, following the standard residency rules in the UAE.

Why the UAE Encourages Remote Work

This visa allows skilled professionals to reside in the UAE legally without joining the local job market. They benefit from the country’s exceptional internet connectivity and modern infrastructure, making it a prime location for remote work. At the same time, the UAE gains from these visitors, who contribute to the local economy while earning salaries from abroad.

Evolution of the Remote Work Visa

The initial step towards remote work opportunities in the UAE started in October 2020 with Dubai’s Virtual Working Program. Subsequently, the federal Remote Working Visa was announced in March 2021, offering a uniform structure nationwide.

The Global Trend of Remote Work Visas

The UAE is not alone in this initiative, as many countries have introduced similar visas post-COVID-19. Nations like Barbados, Bermuda, and Estonia seek long-term visitors while minimizing strain on local job markets.

A Word of Caution

Remote workers need to operate under a proper visa. Unauthorized remote work can lead to fines, tax issues, and other repercussions. Consistent infractions may also hinder future employment opportunities with foreign workers. The UAE Remote Working Visa offers a safe and legal option that greatly reduces these risks for remote professionals.

Conclusion

The UAE Remote Working Visa offers an excellent solution for foreign professionals wishing to live in the UAE while continuing their overseas employment. The recent six-month bank statement requirement is significant, so applicants should prepare their documents well in advance to meet the new guidelines.