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New UAE Residency Rules and Visit Visa Extension 2023

• Updated On: 09/02/23

Anisha Sagar

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• Business , Golden Visa , UAE Residents , Visa

Dubai is one of the most sought-after destinations for both tourists and residents alike, offering a high standard of living and a thriving business scene. However, visa rules and regulations in Dubai have recently changed, so it’s imperative that you keep up with the changes.

Whether you are looking for new job opportunities, launching your company in Dubai, or a safe and secure place to raise a family, you must ensure that you are fully compliant and able to take advantage of all the opportunities that Dubai has to offer. From updates to residency visa requirements to new regulations for tourist visas, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the latest developments and what they mean for those looking to live and work in Dubai.

This blog will cover:

An Overview of the New UAE Visa Rules 2023

An in-depth look at the new uae residency rules 2023, changes to the uae golden visa in 2023, changes to the uae 5-year visa or green visa, entry visa rules 2023, visit visa extension rules 2023.

• Why Meydan Free Zone

The UAE recently implemented significant changes to its entry and residency visa policies as part of reforms that took effect in October 2022. These reforms have streamlined procedures, expanded the long-term Golden Visa scheme, and introduced a new five-year residency visa called Green Visas . In addition, there have been increases in visa service fees and longer grace periods for leaving the country after visa expiration.

Validity of Freezone Visas Modified:

The validity of free zone visas in the UAE has been reduced from three to two years, with the change taking effect in October 2022 as part of the UAE visa reforms. The move standardizes the validity of work visas, which were previously three years for free zones and two years for the mainland.

Visa Fees Increase:

The fees for availing all services offered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) have increased by AED100. This includes the additional smart services fee for Emirates ID and residency visas.

Emirates ID Replaces Visa Stamps on Passports:

The UAE has discontinued the practice of stamping residency visas on passports. Instead, residents will use their Emirates ID as their official residency document.

Visa On-arrival Policies Have Changed:

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a favorable visa policy for travelers from different countries. Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are exempt from obtaining a visa or permit to enter the UAE. They only need to produce their GCC country passport or national ID card upon arrival. Other nationalities may be eligible for a 30-day visa on arrival, which can be obtained without prior visa arrangements. There are also some countries that are eligible for a 90-day visa on arrival. Indian citizens holding a normal passport and either a visit visa issued by the USA, a green card issued by the USA, a residence visa issued by the UK, or a residence visa issued by the EU are eligible for a 14-day visa on arrival, given that the visas or green card is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival into the UAE. It’s important to note that passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the UAE and the list of countries eligible for visa on arrival may change, so it’s advisable to check with the UAE embassy in your country before traveling to the UAE.

New Visa-free Destinations:

The Emirati passport provides its holders with visa-free entry to 112 countries, granting access to more than 50% of the world without a visa requirement. The passport also grants visa-free entry to the Schengen area, which includes many European territories. Some of the countries that Emiratis can visit without a visa include France, Germany, Greece, Italy, and Spain, among others. The duration of stay without a visa varies from country to country and ranges from 15 to 180 days. This visa-free travel is a significant perk of holding an Emirati passport and makes travel easier and more convenient for its holders.

Smart Ways to Apply for a Visa:

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai has introduced a new video conferencing service to complete residency visa applications. The service was launched on January 11, 2023 and allows applicants to submit documents and complete the application process digitally. Customers can follow up on their transactions through video calls and send any required documents through a chat box. The aim of the service is to achieve a “zero visit” goal, but in rare cases, if an application cannot be completed, an officer will send a link to schedule an appointment to visit the administration in person. This new service is a step forward in providing smart government services and making it easier for entrepreneurs to start their businesses in Dubai. The option to visit a service center in person is still available to those who prefer it.

The UAE government implemented a sophisticated visa system in October 2022, leading to several alterations to visa policies, and these recent reforms are part of the major residency and entry permit reforms implemented by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). The cost of all UAE and Dubai visas, including 30-day and 60-day tourist visas, has risen by AED 100. The ICA’s one-month visit visa fee, for instance, has increased from AED 270 to AED 370.

The UAE has made significant revisions to the Golden Residence Scheme and expanded the categories of the Golden Visa to simplify the eligibility criteria and include more beneficiaries. The UAE Golden Visa is now valid for a 10-year period for all categories, providing the holder with the right to reside and work in the Emirate for a decade.

Investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, and skilled workers are eligible for the 10-year Golden Residence. The new rules also permit Golden Residence holders to sponsor their family members, including spouses and children, of any age, as well as unlimited support services labourers.

The grace period for expats after a residence visa expiration or cancellation in the UAE has been extended from 30 days to 6 months for Golden Visa holders and their family members. Expats now have a 6-month window to either renew their status or leave the country without incurring fines. However, if the Golden Visa holder fails to renew or cancel their dependents’ visas, they may be subject to overstay fines.

The UAE recently launched an online eligibility quiz for aspiring applicants seeking the Golden Visa. The visa is now available to scientists, researchers, skilled professionals, exceptional talents, and real estate investors.

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The UAE Green Visa has undergone significant improvements aimed at attracting talents, experts, freelancers, investors, and entrepreneurs with a new 5-year residency option. The residency requirements have been simplified and made more flexible, and additional benefits include longer grace periods of up to 6 months after the residency permit has ended to facilitate family members’ stays.

Skilled Workers The Green residency for skilled employees has been updated, offering a 5-year residency period for skilled workers without a sponsor or employer. To be eligible, applicants must have:

• A valid employment contract
• Classification in the first, second, or third occupational level, as determined by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
• A minimum educational level of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• A salary of at least AED 15,000.

Please note that third-level skilled professionals, as classified by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, are eligible for a 90-day extended grace period after the expiration of their Green residency.

Freelancers and Self-Employed Individuals The new Green Residence for freelancers and self-employed individuals offers a 5-year residency in the UAE without needing a sponsor or employer. The following criteria must be met:

• Obtainment of a freelance/self-employment permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation
• Possessing a bachelor’s degree or specialised diploma
• Having an annual self-employment income over the past two years of AED 360,000 or the ability to demonstrate financial stability during the stay in the country.

Investors and Partners The Green Residence for investors and partners is designed to encourage investment in the UAE and offers a 5-year residency for those involved in commercial activities. The following requirements must be met:

• Approval of the investment and proof of investment
• Calculation of total invested capital for investors with multiple licenses
• Mandatory approval from competent local authorities.

Children of Emirati Mothers The UAE has recently extended the validity of residency visas for the children of Emirati mothers and foreign fathers, from three years to five years. This move is seen as a positive and progressive step towards granting these children the same rights as other citizens in terms of healthcare and education.

UAE Residency Re-entry Permit

Residents of the UAE who have been staying outside the country for more than six months can now return by applying for a re-entry permit, according to travel and typing centre agents in Dubai. The re-entry permit will allow UAE residents who have been away for over six months to return to the Emirate within 30 days of permit approval.

With the re-entry permit, residents can now remain outside of the UAE for more than 6 months without having their residency cancelled. However, to be eligible to apply for the permit, residents must provide a reason for their extended absence and provide proof of the same. The re-entry permit can be applied for through the official website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP).

Benefits for Family Members

The United Arab Emirates has recently introduced new benefits for family members of Golden Visa holders. The holders can now sponsor their parents for a 10-year residency, compared to the previous one-year stay. They are also exempt from paying the deposit required to sponsor parents and only need to provide a certification from their consulate as the sole caregiver. In addition, Golden Visa holders can sponsor residency for their first-degree relatives, including their spouses and children, for a five-year stay.

The grace period for Green visa holders and their family members to exit the UAE after a residency visa cancellation has been extended to 6 months, with no fines during this time. However, if the green visa holder fails to renew or cancel the visa of their dependents, they may face overstay fines. The Green Residence holder can bring their first-degree relatives, with their residency matching the same duration as the original holder.

The UAE has recently introduced ten new types of entry visas that do not require a sponsor or host, aimed at simplifying the entry requirements for visitors to the country for different purposes. These new visas offer flexible durations and are available for single or multiple entries, valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.

• The Job Exploration Visa is aimed at attracting young talents and skilled professionals to explore job opportunities in the UAE and do not require a sponsor or host.
• The Business Entry Visa is for investors and entrepreneurs to explore business and investment opportunities with easy entry processes.
• The Multi-entry Tourist Visa has been introduced for all nationalities and allows tourists to enter the UAE multiple times on self-sponsorship, with a stay of 90 days on each visit that can be extended by another 90 days. The only requirement is proof of having a bank balance of AED 14,700.
• The Family Visa rule has also been changed to allow male children under 25 and disabled children to be sponsored by their parents, and unmarried females can be sponsored indefinitely.
• The entry permit for visiting friends and relatives, a temporary work mission, and study and training have also been introduced, with specific requirements for each.
• A residence permit may also be issued for humanitarian cases, such as the female resident whose husband passed away in the country and has one child or more or the parents or children of a UAE citizen who holds foreign passports.

UAE Entry Permit Extension

According to reports, some UAE entry permits may be extended for up to 90 days based on the purpose of the visit and other factors. The applicant’s passport must have a minimum validity of 6 months, and tourist entry permit applications must be submitted by the relevant tourism company.

An entry permit extension can be granted within 48 hours for eligible applicants who meet all requirements and conditions. The extension can be requested online through the website or mobile app of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICA) by following these steps:

• Register and create an account on the ICP smart service system
• Apply and pay the required fees

A 30-day extension, which can be issued twice, costs AED 610. For GCC residents, a 30-day extension application costs AED 260 and must be accompanied by a passport copy.

In three specific cases, the extension may exceed a month:

• Healthcare entry permits – may be extended up to 90 days for AED 510.
• Entry permits for those accompanying GCC citizens – may be extended up to 60 days for AED 260.
• Study permits – may be extended up to 90 days for AED 610.

The stay period for visit entry permits will be determined based on the visitor’s purpose of visit and at the discretion of the authority, but it must not exceed one year. The head of the authority may also extend the visit entry permit if there is a valid reason for the request and all fees have been paid.

The UAE Immigration department has ended the practice of extending visit visas without leaving the country. Those seeking to extend their visit visas must now depart the UAE and reapply.

The prior relaxation of visit visa extension rules due to the COVID-19 pandemic has been withdrawn, and procedures have returned to pre-pandemic norms. At present, there has been no official confirmation from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) regarding the new visa extension rule; however, reports indicate that visa extension applications submitted within the country are being denied.

Visit Visa Overstay Rules 2023

Foreign nationals who have exceeded their visa validity in the UAE cannot depart the country without obtaining an outpass or exit permit first. The outpass for Dubai/UAE can be acquired at the airport immigration offices or land borders and may also be obtained at the Al Awir Immigration office for a reported cost of AED 200 to 300.

Visitors who overstay their visas will be required to pay full fines, which amount to AED 50 per day of overstay. UAE visit visa holders will be granted a grace period of 10 days from the date their visa expires, after which the overstay fines will start to accrue. It is important to note that the overstay fines will not be imposed on visitors who are unable to leave the country due to airport closures or flight cancellations.

If you’re thinking about obtaining a UAE residency visa and starting a business in Dubai, you no longer have to worry about the cumbersome paperwork and time-consuming process of setting up a business. With Meydan Free Zone , you can now take advantage of a digital, paperless experience and simplify the entire process. Take the first step towards a better future today and switch to an all-digital experience with Meydan Free Zone to grow from Dubai .

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Why Meydan Free Zone?

Meydan Free Zone is a thriving economic district in Dubai, offering innovative investment and lifestyle benefits in a secure and regulated environment. The team of professionals at Meydan Free Zone will assist you with all your business needs, from registering your company name to maintaining your licenses and visas. The free zone is located in the heart of Dubai, with airport links and advanced infrastructure and technology to support your business. Contact Meydan Free Zone for assistance with your visa application process, including e-fee payments, website design, documentation preparation, and global payments.

*Meydan Free Zone does not offer freelance license or freelance visa options. 

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How long can you stay in UAE after your visit visa expires?

In this article

This legal article discusses the recent removal of the grace period for visit visas issued in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As of May 15, the UAE government has abolished the 10-day grace period that previously applied to visit visas issued in Dubai. Consequently, visitors and tourists are no longer allowed any additional time beyond the visa’s expiration date to exit the country. This article analyzes the legal implications of the new directive and the imposition of fines for overstaying the visa duration.

Introduction

The United Arab Emirates has been a popular destination for tourists and visitors from around the world. To facilitate travel, visit visas were previously accompanied by a grace period, allowing individuals to stay in the country for a limited period even after the visa’s expiration. However, recent developments have led to the elimination of this grace period for visit visas issued in Dubai, and this article aims to explore the legal implications of this change.

Removal of Grace Period for Visit Visas

As of May 15, the UAE authorities, including Dubai, have ceased providing a grace period for visit visas. Travel agents have been informed of this new directive and have been advising their clients accordingly. Visitors are now required to strictly adhere to the duration specified in their visa , which is typically either 30 days or 60 days from the date of entry.

What happens if you overstay your tourist visa in UAE?

Previously, the grace period provided some flexibility for visit visa holders, granting them a few extra days to arrange their departure from the country. With the removal of this grace period, visitors and tourists must now exit the UAE before their visa expires. Failure to comply with this requirement will result in overstay fines being levied upon them.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security has implemented uniform fines for overstaying in the country. The recently introduced rules, as part of comprehensive visa reforms announced last month, have resulted in a reduction and standardization of overstaying fees to Dh50. Moreover, individuals who overstay on a residency visa will now be subject to double fines for each day, amounting to Dh50 per day instead of the previous Dh25.

How to Pay Overstay fines for Visit Visa in Dubai?

Overstay fines can be conveniently settled through two options: by visiting customer happiness centers in person or by using the authority’s website and smart application for online payment.

It’s essential to note that any additional days spent on the process of requesting documents or updating information will be considered part of the overstay period. Moreover, applicants must exercise caution during the visa renewal process. If an application is initiated but the correct documents are not uploaded within 30 days or if the wrong documents are uploaded more than three times, the application will be automatically canceled. In such cases, a new application must be filed to proceed with the visa renewal.

Can Tourists on Visit Visa’s extend their stay from within the country?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced significant reforms to its visa procedures, providing tourists on 30 or 60-day visit visas with the option to extend their stay within the country for an additional 30 days. This move by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) aims to offer visitors more time to experience the diverse offerings of the UAE. This legal article delves into the details of the recent decision, the extension process, documentation requirements, time duration, fees, and the various purposes the extension serves.

Recent Changes in UAE Visit Visa Procedures

Since October of the previous year, the UAE has witnessed substantial changes in its visa regulations, representing one of the largest reforms in residency and entry permits overseen by the Immigration and Citizenship Program (ICP). Consequently, the visit visa system has also undergone notable developments, giving tourists greater flexibility in extending their stay.

Extension Option and Maximum Duration

As per information available on the ICA website, individuals holding a 30 or 60-day visit visa can now apply for an extension of up to 30 days, subject to a maximum cumulative duration of 120 days within a year. A representative from the Amer Centre’s call center confirmed that multiple extensions can be sought, each lasting up to 30 days.

Initiating the UAE Visit Visa Extension Process

To avail the visa extension, tourists or visitors are advised to get in touch with their travel agent or sponsor. The operation manager at Arabian Business Centre, Firose Khan, emphasized the importance of contacting the visa issuing agent well in advance of the current visa’s expiration to ensure a smooth extension process. The agent or sponsor will provide guidance on the necessary documentation, fees, and other relevant information.

Required Documentation for UAE Visit Visa Extension

To apply for a visit visa extension, tourists need to present their passport. Specific details regarding the required documents will be provided by the issuing agent.

Time Duration for UAE Visit Visa Extension and Fees

The duration of the extension process may take a few days, depending on the travel agent handling the application. However, the ICP website mentions that the service can be completed within 48 hours after all requirements are fulfilled. The cost of extending the visa for one month amounts to Dh1,050, as explained by Khan.

Detailed Visa Extension Charges

The GDRFA has laid out the extension charges on their website, which include:

• Visa Extension Fee: Dh600 + 5% Value Added Tax (VAT)
• Knowledge Dirham: Dh10
• Innovation Dirham: Dh10
• Fee Inside the Country: Dh500

It’s essential to note that the total visa amount may vary depending on the sponsored person’s circumstances or other relevant factors.

Application Process and Recommendations

The application for an extension of the entry permit for tourism is made through tourism companies. Agents strongly advise visitors to leave the country before their visa expires or extend their visas to avoid penalties or difficulties during the exit process.

The extension caters to various purposes, including tourism, family visits, business meetings, and other personal matters. With this extra time, visitors can explore the UAE’s iconic landmarks, indulge in shopping, enjoy culinary delights, and experience the world-class hospitality offered by the country.

Legal Consequences of Overstaying Visit Visas

Any individual found to be overstaying their visit visa in the UAE will be subject to fines as soon as the visa expires. These fines are calculated based on the number of days the individual has overstayed, and the amounts may vary depending on the visa type and the duration of the overstay.

Compliance and Enforcement

The UAE authorities take visa regulations seriously and have strict measures in place to enforce compliance. Border control officials and immigration authorities are vigilant in monitoring visa expirations and identifying individuals who have overstayed their allowed duration. Once an individual is found to be in violation, the overstay fines will be imposed immediately, and further legal actions may be taken, including deportation and entry bans for future visits.

Clarifications on Applicability

It is important to note that the elimination of the grace period applies specifically to visit visas issued in Dubai. As mentioned earlier, other emirates had already removed the grace period, making Dubai the final emirate to implement this change. Therefore, all visitors and tourists entering the UAE through Dubai must be aware of this modification to the visa regulations.

Recommendation and Conclusion

In light of this new directive, it is crucial for all visitors and tourists planning to enter the UAE to be fully informed about the specific terms and conditions of their visit visas. Travel agents and other relevant parties must ensure that their clients are aware of the elimination of the grace period and the potential consequences of overstaying their visas. Furthermore, visitors should exercise diligence and compliance with the visa regulations to avoid any legal complications or financial penalties.

The UAE’s decision to eliminate the grace period for visit visas issued in Dubai signifies a shift towards stricter enforcement of visa regulations. Visitors and tourists are now required to adhere strictly to the visa duration specified upon entry, and any overstay beyond the visa expiration date will result in fines being imposed. Understanding these legal implications is crucial for ensuring a smooth and compliant travel experience in the UAE.

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UAE: My UAE visa has been cancelled. How can I stay on?

Living in uae.

Cost and process for applying for a new UAE visa within the UAE

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Dubai: If your UAE residence visa has expired, or has been cancelled, and if you wish to stay on in the UAE, what is the best way to regularise your status? This was a question raised by a Gulf News reader.

He asked: “I am on a cancelled UAE visa. Is there any way to stay here for more than 30 days because my online courses are ongoing?”

Grace period and overstay fines for UAE visa

UAE visa holders have a certain grace period – depending on the type of visa – to exit the country after their visa expires or is cancelled.

Tourists and visit visa holders have a grace period of 10 days, according to the UAE government’s official website – government.ae.

If a tourist or a visitor overstays beyond the grace period, he or she will be fined with:

• Dh200 for the first day of overstay

• Dh100 each consecutive day

• Dh100, as service fees.

If you have a UAE residence visa, which has been cancelled or has expired, they have a 30-day grace period after visa expiry to either amend their status and get another residence visa or leave the country. Fines do not apply during the grace period.

If they overstay after the grace period, they will be fined with:

• Dh125 for the first day

• Dh25 for each subsequent day

• Dh50 per day after six months of overstaying

• Dh100 per day after one year of overstaying

Can I apply for a new UAE visa?

Under the Ministerial Resolution No. 377 of 2014, holders of all types of visas can modify the status of their entry while staying in the country if they wish to.

However, you will need to pay a Dh550 fee for the ‘change of status’. This is essentially a service which allows individuals to shift to another visa without the need to exit and enter the country.

Depending on the individual’s requirements, they can apply for a short-term or long-term visit visa. According to Sirajudeen Ummer, Public Relations Officer at Dubai-based First Gate Business Services, you can expect minor differences in the visa costs depending on each company.

“There may be variations in the rates of travel agencies as part of a marketing strategy,” he said.

There may be variations in the rates (of the visit visa) of travel agencies as part of a marketing strategy. - rajudeen Ummer, Public Relations Officer at Dubai-based First Gate Business Services

So, it would be advisable to check a few travel agencies However, regardless of the minor price differences, the cost will include the ‘change of status’ process fee, which means that the applicant can shift to a new visa, and continue staying in the UAE legally, without the need to exit the UAE’s borders and re-enter.

However, if you are travelling to the UAE from outside the country, the visa costs would be lower. To read more about the visa application process, read our guide here.

Applying for a short-term or long-term visit visa

You can apply for a visit visa, which can be either short-term (30 days) or long-term (90-days).

To apply, you can approach a travel and tourism company in the UAE, by providing the following documents:

• Passport copy (the passport should be valid for at least six months)

• Passport sized photograph

The visa is issued within one or two days and the cost can vary depending on the emirate in which you are applying as well as the company.

The following amount includes visa cost, mandatory health insurance and change of status cost:

Short-term 30-day visit visa - Dh1,050

Long-term 90-day visit visa – Dh1,350

If you happen to find a new job, or your spouse or parent can apply for a residence visa for you, that is an option available to those living in the UAE here. To find out how you can apply for a new residence visa on a family sponsorship, read our detailed guide here.  

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UAE Visit Visa

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Getting a UAE visit visa has never been easier, with Arabiers . Simply contact us through WhatsApp and your visa application will be processed without delay. All we need to know are your travel details and Emirates destination of choice. Fly into an international airport; make a border crossing by car from a neighboring country; even arrive by boat. By land, sea or air, your e-visa will open the door to an unforgettable taste of Arabia

• 1. Visa price 2024 ➜
• 2. What is a UAE visit visa ➜
• 3. Eligibility ➜
• 4. Age limit ➜
• 5. Documents ➜
• 6. Process ➜
• 7. Validity & Grace Period ➜
• 8. Extending UAE Visit Visa ➜
• 9. Special On-Arrival Visas ➜
• 10. Six Months UAE Visit Visa ➜
• 11. UAE Immigration Contacts ➜
• 12. Visa Differences ➜
• 13. UAE Mission Visa ➜
• 14. Unused Visit Visa ➜
• 15. Dos and Don’ts ➜
• 16. UAE New Work Week ➜

UAE Visit Visa Price 2024

When you apply for a UAE Visit Visa, the price will depend on the type of visa you require. Exactly how long do you and your party plan to stay in the UAE? Do you want to be able to leave and re-enter the country during your visit? How quickly do you need the visa to be issued –in days or hours? All these factors will dictate the price you pay and every UAE Visit Visa Price option is detailed below. Make your choice and leave everything else to Arabiers - we look forward to welcoming you soon.

Standard Processing

24-48 hours

Single Entry

Multi Entry

Express Processing

Arabiers has a wealth of experience in processing all types of visit visas. The speed at which we deliver is complimented regularly in online reviews – as is the simplicity of the process itself. The price for a UAE visa depends in part on the processing method you choose. You can apply for a regular visit visa which follows the Standard Processing time of 24 to 48 hours. Or, if the need is more urgent, you can use the more expensive Express Processing service. This super-fast option will deliver your UAE express visa in only 4 to 8 hours.

Travel Insurance for UAE Visa Holders

When you successfully apply for a UAE visit visa with Arabiers, we will also look after your travel insurance needs. Just send us your return ticket and the travel insurance will be processed, giving you complete peace of mind.

What is UAE Visit Visa?

A UAE Visit Visa is basically an entry permit required by foreigners who wish to visit the UAE. There are two types of UAE Visit Visa – the Single-Entry Visit Visa and the Multiple-Entry Visit Visa. Both can be issued for 30 or 60 days according to your plans and schedule. While most visitors are tourists lured by the UAE’s world-class attractions, many come for a variety of other reasons. These include exploring job or business opportunities, pursuing educational studies, or seeking medical treatment at internationally-renowned hospitals. Yet more come to visit family and friends living in the UAE while others are simply transiting through the country. Whatever the reason, a UAE Visit Visa is the starting point for your Arabian adventure – contact us today

Eligibility

To apply for a UAE Visit Visa you will need a passport valid for at least 6 months. Some countries have special arrangements with the UAE allowing their citizens to travel without a visa. Instead, these citizens receive a free On Arrival visa when they enter the country. However, citizens of some other countries, such as South Africa , Turkey , Albania , Algeria , Morocco , Egypt , Jordan , India , Pakistan and Sri Lanka must apply for a prepaid visit visa. You will also need to show a return flight ticket when applying and may be asked for some additional documentation. But no need to worry – it’s very easy to apply for a UAE Visit Visa compared to most other countries.

Women and Children

The UAE culture is very protective of women and children and this extends to all its visitors. It is proud of its reputation as one of the safest countries in the world in which to live and to travel. The UAE Visit Visa Rules reflect this by imposing age restrictions to ensure the wellbeing of females and youngsters alike. If you are a female and want to travel to the UAE alone, you must be 18 years of age or above. If you are under 18, you should be accompanied by your parents or guardian. And as a bonus, from July 15 to September 15 each year, your visa will come compliments of the UAE

Parents in UAE: What if one or both of your parents already have a valid UAE work permit? In that case it will be easier for you to get a UAE Visa too. However you may be asked to submit supporting documents for your application.

* Nigerian Applicants Please Note: Nigerian citizens, whether male or female, travelling alone to the UAE, should be 40 years of age or older. The same applies to a Nigerian married woman travelling with children. Certain age restrictions also apply to Nigerian passport holders applying for a 3-month Dubai Visa.

Documents Required

The basic requirements to apply for a UAE visit visa are as follows:

• A color copy of your passport with a clear scanned photo of excellent definition.
• A separate recent good color photograph of yourself taken against a white background.

Depending on the country you come from, you may need additional documents, including the following

Arabiers has made it super-easy for travelers to apply for a prepaid visit visa to the UAE

Scan a clear color copy of your passport and send it to us through WhatsApp. Also send us a clear color photo of yourself taken against a white background. Lastly, we might also require a clear copy of the residence visa page of your referee.

There are several easy and convenient ways to pay for your visa. You can simply make the payment online through a payment link that we will send you. Alternatively, you can pay for your visa through any UAE bank of your choosing. Or, if you are already in the UAE, why not visit our offices and make the visa payment in person? At Arabiers, we always love to meet and chat with our customers face-to-face

After we apply for your Visa and the application is successful, you can start packing without delay! You will receive the approved visa through WhatsApp within 24 to 48 hours from the time of paying the fee.

UAE Visit Visa Validity

If you plan to extend or renew your Visit Visa, you should first know how long it is valid for. You will also want to know whether you get a grace period when the visa expires. This is important because overstaying your visa’s validity period can incur heavy fines.

• Validity Period: Every type of UAE Visit Visa has its own validity period which dictates how long you can stay. If you don’t have a grace period and remain in the country after expiry, you are ‘overstaying your visa’. For example, a 30-day single-entry visit visa will expire 30 days from your entry date. Similarly a 60-day multiple-entry visit visa will expire 60 days from your first entry but this visa does, of course, allow you to leave and re-enter the UAE numerous times within the 60 days
• Grace Period: When your UAE Visit Visa expires, you only qualify for a grace period if it is an On-Arrival visa for specific nationalities. The grace period is the time you are allowed to stay in the UAE after your official expiry date. It is a ‘courtesy extension’ and, during this time, you will not be charged any overstaying penalties. If, however, you have a Prepaid Visit Visa, there is no grace period and the expiry date strictly applies.

Extending UAE Visit Visa

If you entered the UAE with a prepaid visa, you can extend it twice. The first extension will be for 30 days and the second will get you another 30 days. Indeed, there are a number of different ways to extend your stay in the UAE, These include crossing the border to a neighboring country or doing the airport to airport visa change. Every year many thousands of visitors to the UAE decide they want to stay longer than originally planned. At Arabiers we know all the options – and take delight in helping you extend your UAE experience.

UAE On arrival visa

UAE with the bilateral agreement between other countries made this free entry on arrival visa where you simply book your flight and hotel to any emirates of UAE and come to any entry point and get visa just with the stamp. Up on your entry immigration office will create Unique ID, usually referred as UID and also a visa file that can be used for your further visa purposes in UAE

20 Countries nationals get free on arrival visa for 30 days with 10 days grace period and here are the list of countries

Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, Hong Kong-China, Japan, Kazakhstan, Macau-China, Malaysia, Mauritius, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, San Marino, Singapore, Ukraine, United States of America, Vatican City, United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.

66 countries national get free 90 days multiple entry visa which is valid for 6 month and here are the list of countries

Argentina, Austria, Bahamas Islands, Barbados, Belgium, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, El-Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Kiribati, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Maldives, Malta, Montenegro, Nauru, Netherlands, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russian Federation, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Uruguay.

UAE On-Arrival Visit Visa for Mexicans

If you have a Mexican passport, you qualify to enter the UAE without a visa. On arrival you will be given a free multiple entry on arrival visit visa that is valid for 180 days. When you enter the UAE the first time, you may exit and come back multiple times within six months .And when the 180 days are up, you can then apply for a prepaid UAE visa to stay even longer.

UAE on-arrival Visit Visa for Indians

Most Indian nationals coming to the UAE have to apply for a prepaid UAE Visit Visa. But some Indians residing outside their native country qualify for a 14-day On Arrival Visa by applying in GDRFA (Previously given this speical on arrival in airport, from 2024 May pre apply on arrival visa online). A special regulation introduced in 2017 bestows the privilege on Indian nationals with the following visas and permits:

• USA Green Card
• EU Residence Permit valid for at least 6 months
• UK residence Permit valid for at least 6 months

This particular on-arrival visa, however, is not free – but you will only have to pay 63 USD to get it. And you can extend this visa for another 14 days by paying AED 250 to UAE Immigration.

Six Months UAE Visa

The UAE government, in July 2019, introduced a 6-month UAE visit visa. The visa is available to entrepreneurs, investors, brilliant professionals and students of exceptional distinction. This visa is issued to people who qualify for it and they want to obtain a long-term residence permit to the UAE in some time. If you don’t fall into any of the categories mentioned, you cannot apply for the 6 months UAE visit visa so you can alternatively opt for the regular six months visa.

UAE Immigration Contacts

If you wish to independently contact the relevant immigration authorities like ICP , for any reason, their numbers are below. They will help you with any questions about UAE visa types, the Visa fee and any other general inquiries. They will also assist you in making a personal UAE visit visa validity check if that is what is concerning you.

Which emirate you receive your Visa from does not matter at all. Whether it is issued by Abu Dhabi , Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Fujairah or Umm Al Quwain is immaterial. You can enter the country through any of the seven emirates and your movements are not restricted in any way. It is a UAE visit visa and you can travel freely with it anywhere in the UAE.

The UAE Mission Visa is a special entry permit issued to professionals traveling to work short-term with a UAE-based company. When you are employed under this visa, the UAE authority considers you to be a ‘probational employee’. The mission visa can only be issued by certain registered UAE companies, so keep in touch with your potential employer. Also note that the Mission Visa is a single-entry visa valid for 90 days. So, if you leave the country before the 90 days are up, your visa gets cancelled automatically. If you have a mission visa, you cannot transfer to a visit visa or apply for a new permit. You must first cancel the mission visa by exiting the country – and only then can you apply anew.

What do you do if you have received a UAE Visit Visa but are now not going to use it? To avoid issues with the immigration authorities, you should cancel it in 30 days. You will be required to pay up to AED 300 to cancel an unused visa. Alternatively you can choose to extend the visa for two months at a cost of AED 200. You should cancel an unused fee because you cannot apply for a new one when the old one has still not been used.

Here is a quick guide on what is allowed and what is prohibited with a UAE visa:

• Engage in tourism activities, visit family and friends in any emirate and attend meetings and conferences.
• Attend job interviews and prepare to apply for a Residence Visa when you join the UAE workforce.
• Plan to start a new business in the UAE or buy a property. You can do the initial business and property gap research while on a visit visa.
• Work or volunteer to work for a UAE company, whether paid or unpaid.
• Open a bank account, or start a business, (you need a Residence Visa and Emirates ID to do that).
• Beg in the streets and you are liable to be fined AED 5,000. And that’s just the start – you could also be jailed for up to three months. Those operating gangs of beggars, or recruiting people to work as beggars, face even stiffer penalties. They will be fined a minimum of AED 100,000 and imprisoned for not less than 6 months.
• Illegal activities such as prostitution, child trafficking, smuggling and other criminal acts.

If you need to make your UAE Visit Visa application quickly, do so during the working week. In the UAE, immigration offices work four and a half days from Monday to Friday noon. You are therefore advised to apply during that timeframe so that we can process it with the authorities faster. You should first apply for the visit visa and, when approved, you can then book your flight to the UAE.

You are not allowed to work in the UAE without a valid UAE work visa that has been issued by the MOHRE. It is therefore illegal to work with a visit visa in the UAE.

You must have a hard copy of your UAE visa where entering the UAE, and show it to the screening counters in Airports or borders in the UAE. You should therefore print a copy of your UAE visa before leaving your country so that you can show it to the immigration officers.

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• Visa and Immigration in UAE

UAE: 90-day visit visa now available for Dubai residents' family and friends

Here are all the details on how and where to apply for the papers, the total cost of the service.

Nasreen Abdulla

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Dubai residents who want to host their friends or family in the country can now get a 3-month visit visa, according to residents and travel agencies. The host is required to pay a refundable deposit of Dh1,000 for this visa.

KV, who works as a PRO for a Dubai-based company, said that he has secured these visas for his company employees. “I have applied for this visa for family members of two of my colleagues in the last month,” he said. “I approached the AMER centre in Karama near the post office, and the process was easy. However, as per my experience, the family members must be immediate blood relatives like mother, father or siblings.”

According to him, the total cost of the service was Dh1,770. “The deposit was Dh1,000, and the visa with typing charges and service fee cost Dh770,” he said.

In October 2022, sweeping reforms were made to entry visas in the UAE as part of the Advanced Visa System. It introduced one of the largest residency and entry permit reforms in the UAE to date.

However, according to travel agencies in the country, they are unable to apply for these visas in their systems. “As of now, only individuals applying on the system can get these visas,” said Afi Ahmed from Smart Travels. “The individuals must apply for it online on the GDRFA website, on the app or through an Amer typing centre.”

On the GDRFA website, users can also apply for entry permits for business or job opportunities, entry permits for those awaiting their Green Visas, as well as a patient escort permit, among others.

Dubai resident Mohammed said he had applied for a visa for his mother to travel to the city. “Initially, I planned to apply for a 60-day visit visa through a travel agency,” he said. “But when I heard of the 90-day visa, I applied for it through an Amer centre. It was a very easy process.”

As part of the advanced visa services, an array of new entry permits was introduced. Some of them included a job exploration entry visa , one for business entry , a five-year multi-entry tourist visa , one to seek medical treatment, for temporary work , and for studies and training.

Last week, UAE's Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) announced the implementation of a new package of updates to improve the services provided to citizens, residents, and visitors through its smart services system.

The ICA has adopted a list of 15 services that were updated in its smart services system as of February 1, 2023.

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