Work visa in Abu Dhabi

Keeping a freelance visa while working full-time for a company: No, this is not permitted in the UAE. A full-time role requires a company-sponsored work visa, and working under a freelance visa for a full-time employer would be non-compliant.
Cancelling the freelance visa but keeping the freelance licence: Yes, this is allowed. You may cancel the freelance visa, move to the company's employment visa, and retain the freelance licence (subject to the issuing authority's rules on operating without a visa).

Yes, both options may be possible, but the right choice depends on your freelance authority rules and your employer’s flexibility.

1️⃣ Keep your freelance visa & work for the company
You can remain under your freelance residency and the employer may obtain a part-time work permit (for mainland companies). This allows you to legally work for them while keeping your freelance status. Approval depends on MOHRE and the authority that issued your freelance permit.

2️⃣ Cancel freelance visa & switch to company sponsorship
You may cancel your freelance residence visa and move to a standard employment visa with the new employer. In many cases, you can still keep your freelance licence if the issuing free zone allows licences without residency, but you would operate it as a business owner rather than a resident sponsor.

Before deciding, confirm:

• rules of your freelance free zone/authority


• employer willingness to obtain a part-time permit


• any activity restrictions or non-compete issues


• visa cancellation and grace period timing

HHS Lawyers can review your setup and guide you on the safest option to stay compliant. You can also claim a free 15-minute consultation with our expert by sending your enquiry on WhatsApp.