The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has established a minimum monthly income requirement for foreigners seeking to live in the country while continuing to work remotely for employers or organisations based outside the UAE.
The requirement provides a formal residency route for remote professionals, including workers from Kenya and other African countries, who want to relocate to the Gulf state without ending their existing overseas employment.
Under Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, which contains the executive regulations implementing Federal Law by Decree No. 29 of 2021 on the Entry and Residence of Foreigners, the UAE’s Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICA) may issue a virtual working residence permit valid for one year, with the option of renewal.
Applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least US$3,500, equivalent to approximately Sh452,500, depending on prevailing exchange rates. The income threshold may also be met through an equivalent amount earned in another foreign currency.
However, applicants are required to provide documentary evidence to verify their earnings. Simply declaring an income that meets the threshold is not sufficient for approval.
In addition to the financial requirement, applicants must prove that they are employed by, or have a contractual relationship with, a company or organisation based outside the UAE. Their work must also be performed remotely.
Both requirements must be met before the application can be considered by the immigration authorities.
The conditions for the virtual working residence permit are contained in Articles 49 and 50 of Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, which are available through the UAE’s official legislation portal.
The residency programme is designed for professionals who want to base themselves in the UAE while retaining employment or contractual engagements with businesses abroad.
It therefore allows eligible remote workers to relocate without having to secure a new employer within the UAE.
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