In Dubai, freelancers can obtain a “Talent Pass” license and work in this Emirate and other regions of the UAE for at least 3 years. The Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) launched this project in January 2022. The goal is to attract talented people from all over the world to the country and make sure that they no longer want to leave.
It is necessary to specify an important point right away: a license is not equal to a visa. You will be able to apply for a three-year residence visa only after you receive the right to receive a “Talent Pass” license. Therefore, first of all, we will tell you how to get a license and what its advantages are, and then we will deal with the visa nuances.
Advantages and features of the Talent Pass license
With the Talent Pass, you can:
- Get a three-year residence permit.
- Rent office space provided by DAFZ.
- Get access to a huge community of 2,300 international companies (from more than 20 fields) — and this means that in their person you will have a lot of potential customers.
- The opportunity to get a freelance residence permit in Dubai not only for yourself, but also for family members. Visa processing for relatives takes place in parallel with your documents or after receiving your residence permit.
If, after applying for a Talent Pass license, you change your mind and decide to cancel it, then you need to consider the following:
- All fees and fees paid for the registration of the license will not be refunded.
- If you have already issued a residence permit under this license, you will have to cancel the procedure for obtaining a resident visa. Accordingly, the money that was spent on the visa will not be returned either.
- After canceling the license, you lose all the privileges and opportunities that it originally provided — access to the infrastructure and services of DAFZ, the community of companies and specialists, office rental options, etc.
- Cancellation of the license does not impose any penalties. But in the future, this may affect the re-registration.
Who can get a Talent Pass
Freelancers who work in the following fields can get a Talent Pass permit: art, culture, education, media, marketing, consulting, technology. Namely, the list of suitable professions includes:
- Actor
- Photographer for aerial photography
- Animator
- Artist
- Audio/Sound Engineer
- Operator
- Choreographer
- Commentator
- Composer
- Content Maker
- Copywriter
- Costume Designer
- Critics: music, cinema, theater
- Director: cinema, television, music, theater
- Editor: Audio/video
- Editor: publishing house
- Stylist
- Fitness Trainer
- Furniture Designer
- Graphic Designer
- Hairdresser
- Illustrator
- Image Consultant
- Interior Designer
- Journalist
- Lighting technician
- Make-up artist
- Market Analyst
- Marketing Specialist
- Music Director
- Musician
- Photographer
- Photojournalist
- Presenter (TV/radio)
- Print Media Specialist
- Producer
- Public Relations Specialist
- Researcher
- Screenwriter
- Translator
- Videographer
- Web Designer
- Wedding Organizer
- Writer
How to get a Talent Pass License
The step-by-step process of obtaining a permit looks like this:
Step 1. We go to the official website of DAFZ.
Step 2. Click on the “Sign up and get started” button.
Step 3. We get to the page with the application form, where you need to specify your data and upload the necessary documents:
- A copy of the passport.
- A copy of a valid visa (if you have one).
- Portfolio/diploma/letters of recommendation.
- Cases confirming work experience in the specified field
- Resume.
- List of services and tariffs.
- For technology-related activities, you must attach a diploma of education or a letter of work experience from your employer (or about completing appropriate training courses).
Step 4. After filling out the form, click “Submit application”.
Step 5. During the review of the application, we will receive an e-mail notification about the current status.
Step 6. After your candidacy is approved, you need to pay for a license, if desired, apply for an office lease and complete the visa application process (if this is relevant for you). It will take 10 to 15 business days to issue the permit.
The cost of the “Talent Pass” license is 9,500 dirhams (about $2,600).
How to renew a Talent Pass license
The Talent Pass license must be renewed annually after its expiration date. The process looks like this:
- 30-60 days before the expiration of the current license, you must apply for an extension at DAFZ. This can be done personally or through third parties.
- In the application, you will need to confirm that there have been no changes in your data and activities specified during the initial registration of the Talent Pass.
- You will also need to pay a state fee for license renewal. The amount is less than at the initial registration, but at the moment it is not determined exactly.
- DAFZ employees review the application for an extension within 10-15 business days. This period may be extended if any additional documents or checks are required.
After approval, an updated Talent Pass license is issued for another year. The procedure will need to be repeated every year to maintain the validity of the document.
Scenarios for obtaining a visa with a Talent Pass
There are 3 possible scenarios for obtaining a visa for Talent Pass holders:
- If you already have a valid residence visa, you just need to provide a copy of this visa along with other documents.
- If you do not have a visa, you can apply for a three-year work visa. The cost of such a visa is 4,200 dirhams ($1,150).
- Some specialists may be eligible for a 10-year cultural visa.
Conditions for obtaining a 10-year cultural visa
For representatives of creative professions, it is possible to obtain a 10-year cultural visa to the UAE. This is a great option to gain a foothold in the country for a long time and devote yourself to your favorite business.
To apply for such a visa, you need to meet three main criteria:
- To create unique creative products that have a positive impact on society. For example, works of art, publications, musical or literary works.
- Actively engage in creative work for at least 5 years. This may include participation in exhibitions, galleries, contests, festivals and other important events.
- Have recognition and respect from the professional community. Ideally, to inspire and motivate young cultural figures by their example and mentoring.
Frequently Asked Questions about Getting a Talent Pass
How much does it cost to get a Talent Pass permit?
The cost of the license itself is 9,500 dirhams (about $2,600). In addition, you will have to pay for an annual renewal of the permit, the price of which has not yet been finalized.
Are there job guarantees when receiving a Talent Pass?
Although DAFZ does not directly promise employment, the organization provides access to a huge community of potential employers and clients — more than 2,300 international companies.
What is the situation with VAT payments for license holders?
Registration as a VAT payer is optional with an annual income of 187.5 to 375 thousand dirhams. Over this amount, registration with the tax authorities is mandatory.
How long should I wait for the Talent Pass to be issued after applying?
The review process takes from 10 to 15 business days after the approval of the license request and payment of all state fees.
Author
Yuliya Yanukovich Editor-in-Chief
I am responsible for the work of the editorial office. I write expert interviews and guides.
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