Posted on December 17 2025
Yes, you can apply for a UAE Freelance visa, even if you didn’t get a Golden visa. Both the visa options offer separate and distinct residency pathways, with different criteria, requirements, and benefits. Even if your UAE Golden visa is rejected due to reasons such as documentation errors, insufficient funds, or limitations in the visa category, it is still possible to obtain a UAE Freelance visa. The UAE Freelance visa is designed for self-employed individuals, offering residency through the Freelance permit issued by the official MOHRE. Applicants who did not receive a Golden visa and are looking for pathways to live, and work legally in the UAE can opt for the Freelance visa.
*Do you want to apply for a UAE Freelance visa? Contact Y-Axis for complete assistance with the process!
Your UAE Golden visa may be denied if the documents are incomplete or if the information provided does not match the requirements. Rejection may also occur due to a lack of sufficient funds, the absence of legal accommodation in the UAE, or a past criminal record.

Given below are the top 5 reasons for a UAE Golden visa rejection:
*Want to apply for a UAE Golden visa? Talk to Y-Axis for end-to-end guidance!
If you don’t receive a UAE Golden visa, you can opt for an alternative, such as the Freelance visa. To initiate the process of obtaining a freelance visa in the UAE, you must gather the necessary documents and select a suitable UAE free zone.
The steps to apply for a UAE Freelance visa are as follows
Step 1: Evaluate the reasons behind the rejection of your Golden visa. Consult with immigration experts such as Y-Axis for professional visa assistance.
Step 2: Choose a UAE Free Zone that offers Freelance permits.
Step 3: Gather the necessary documents required for the Freelance visa with end-to-end documentation support from Y-Axis.
Step 4: Register for the chosen Free Zone to obtain your official freelance permit, which allows you to work legally in the country.
Step 5: Apply for a Freelance residence visa once your permit is approved.
Step 6: Complete the medical test and Emirates ID card registration process.
Step 7: Await approval, which may take around 2-4 weeks (includes the entry permit residence visa approval and getting an Emirates ID).
Step 8: Fly to the UAE and complete the post-arrival arrangements with the assistance of Y-Axis.

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with UAE immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!
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