What Is The Difference Between Employment Visa And Freelance Visa?

Having lots of options for a visa to choose from can be overwhelming. And amidst all the chaos choosing the right visa becomes crucial for anyone planning to work in the UAE. The reason is it directly impacts on job flexibility, sponsorship and career opportunities. However, among all the options there are 2 main options: employment and a freelance visa. But what is the difference between an employment visa and a freelance visa? I know you would be confused at this point as both visas are for work purposes. First, take a deep breath and align your preferences then read this guide till the end to understand what can work best for you. Are you ready to find the difference between employment and a freelance visa? Then let’s go!

What is the Difference between Employment Visa and Freelance Visa?

The main difference between these two visas is that an employment visa is issued by a company and allows you to work only for one client. Moreover, the freelance visa enables people to work independently without being tied to one person.

What is an Employment and Freelance Visa?

An employment visa is a work permit that gets issued by an employer. Moreover, this visa is granted to foreign nationals to work for a UAE company. The best part? Employer visa gives you the benefit like an employer sponsoring your visa along with giving health insurance, fixed salary and job security. On the other hand, a freelance visa grants individuals the freedom to wherever and with whom they want to work. And the good news? You do not get to be bound with a single employer which means various opportunities to learn and grow. In short, while an employment visa ensures stability, a freelance visa offers flexibility.

Key Differences between Employment and Freelance Visa

There are some key differences between employment and freelance visa that sets them apart. Starting with the employment visa, you get the benefits of working exclusively for one client. However, there are benefits like fixed salary, health insurance, and job security. In contrast, the freelance visa gives you the freedom to work with multiple clients. And the best part is you can work from home, have your own schedule, and even have the freedom of being your own boss. To be honest, working independently offers stability and various benefits. Remember that every visa has its own perks so it is best to choose what suits your needs.

Eligibility Criteria for Each Visa Type

The employment visa requires a job from a UAE-based company. Moreover, this company will act as your sponsor in the UAE. However, the applicant must meet the eligibility criteria including the company's qualification demands, medical fitness test passing, and having a valid passport. The secret? The employer handles visa processing including labor approval and residency permits. But wait, let me tell you something. The freelance visa is completely self-employed in different sectors. That includes sectors like teaching, consulting, IT, media, and social media. However, individuals must provide proof of expertise like qualifications, resume, work experience, and portfolio. Nevertheless, you need to obtain a freelance permit from a free zone authority.

Sponsorship Requirements

The employment visa requires sponsorship from any UAE-based company. Moreover, the company becomes responsible for processing the visa, obtaining necessary approvals, and covering associated costs. And the good news? The employer gets benefits like health insurance and residency permits. But the bad news is that you have to work with only the chosen company. But wait, a freelance visa is much more than that. It is completely self-sponsored which means you have to do everything on your own. Be it visa application, health insurance, business setup or anything else, you need to manage everything on your own. However, unlike an employment visa freelance visa gives you the freedom to work with whomever you want.

Validity and Renewal Procedure

An employment visa is usually valid for 2 to 3 years. Moreover, the duration also depends on whether it is issued by a mainland company or a free zone. Nevertheless, the employer becomes responsible for renewing the visa before it expires which ensures your continued employment. Meanwhile, the freelance visa is usually valid for 1 to 3 years. Remember that it also depends on different things. However, freelancers become responsible for everything and have to handle everything independently. Lastly, it is important to renew your freelance visa before its expiration.

Which Visa is Right for You?

Choosing between an employment and a freelance visa completely depends on your preferences. Starting with the employment visa, this is best for the ones who want job stability, fixed income, and company-provided benefits. To be honest, an employment visa ties you with one employer who handles your visa and expenses. On the other hand, a freelance visa is best for those who want flexibility, independence, andthe ability to work with multiple clients. In case you might be asking yourself. Freelance visas help you make yourself your own boss. Moreover, you’ll have to manage everything on your own.

Can I switch from an employment visa to a freelance visa?

Yes, you can switch. However, you need to first resign from your job and cancel your employment visa. Nevertheless, you can then apply for a freelance visa and use it.

Does an employment visa provide more benefits than a freelance visa?

Yes, an employment visa includes various benefits. That includes health insurance, end-of-service benefits and job security. Moreover, freelancers have to do and arrange everything on their own.

Can I work multiple jobs with an employment visa?

No, you can’t. You need approval from your employer to do that along with the UAE government. Meanwhile, a freelance visa allows you to work with multiple clients.

Which visa is cheaper: employment or freelance?

Employers covers the visa for employment, that’s the reason they are cheap for employees. On the other hand, freelance visas require upfront costs for permits, visa fees, and business trips.