“You must earn this much”: UAE Sets income rule for Remote-Work Residence

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- The UAE government has set a clear income threshold that foreigners, including Kenyans, must meet to qualify for its virtual working residence permit

- The one-year renewable permit does not require applicants to have a UAE-based sponsor or host company, making it more accessible for remote workers

- Applicants must prove they earn at least KSh 452,500 per month and work remotely for a company based outside the UAE

The United Arab Emirates has set a minimum monthly income requirement that foreigners must satisfy before they can qualify for the country's virtual working residence permit, opening a formal pathway for remote workers from Kenya and across Africa to live in the Gulf state while keeping their existing jobs abroad.

Under Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, which sets out the executive regulations tied to Federal Law by Decree No. 29 of 2021 on the Entry and Residence of Foreigners, the UAE's Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA) is empowered to issue the permit for a renewable one-year period.

What Kenyan Remote Workers Need to Qualify

To be eligible, an applicant must demonstrate a monthly income of at least USD 3,500, which is roughly KSh 452,500 at current exchange rates, or an equivalent amount in another foreign currency.

This figure must be backed by verifiable proof of earnings, not simply declared.

A second condition applies alongside the income threshold: applicants must show evidence that they are employed by or contracted to a company or organization located outside the UAE and that their duties are carried out remotely. Both conditions must be fully satisfied before the ICA will consider granting the permit.

The detailed provisions governing this residency option are set out in Articles 49 and 50 of the Cabinet Resolution and are publicly accessible through the UAE's official legislation portal.

Who the Permit Is Designed For

The virtual working residence permit is tailored for professionals who wish to relocate to the UAE without giving up their current foreign employment.

One of its most significant features is that it removes the usual requirement for a local sponsor or guarantor, which has historically made conventional UAE work residency pathways difficult for self-employed individuals and those working for non-UAE companies.

The ICA retains the authority to approve or reject applications depending on whether the stated requirements are met.

UAE Sets Financial Requirements for Retirement Residency

In a related report, TUKO.co.ke previously covered the UAE's retirement residency permit, which carries its own set of financial conditions.

To qualify, an applicant must be at least 55 years old or have completed a minimum of 15 years of service, whether in the UAE or abroad, and must meet at least one of two separate financial thresholds set by the government.

Source: Legit.ng

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.