What Are UAE Visa Requirements? All You Need to Know About UAE Visa Rules 2023
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular travel destination known for its stunning architecture, luxurious resorts, and vibrant culture. If you are planning to visit the UAE, it is important to understand the visa requirements and the process to obtain a visa.
This article will provide you with all the information you need to know about UAE visa requirements and Dubai and Abu Dhabi visa entry visa requirements.
9 New UAE VISA Rules in 2023
The updated visa regulations in the UAE for 2023 encompass several noteworthy changes, particularly within the framework of the Golden Visa system. Below is a concise summary of the nine key rules that have been implemented:
Fee Adjustment by ICP
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) has recently revised service fees for various offerings, including the issuance of Emirates ID, visit visas, and residence visas.
Dubai Exit or Leave Permit
To address overstays, travelers exiting via Dubai are required to obtain an exit or leave permit. This permit can be acquired at immigration checkpoints, incurring a fee ranging from approximately 200 AED to 300 AED.
Unified Overstay Fine Fee
A uniform overstaying fine of 50 AED per day has been introduced for UAE visas, consolidating the penalty structure.
Revival of 60-Day Visas
Reinstating the 60-day visit visa, introduced after the regulatory reforms of October 3rd, 2022, allows visitors to extend their stays in the UAE for up to two months.
Entry Permit for Visiting Relatives or Friends
Visitors with UAE citizen or resident acquaintances are eligible to apply for an entry permit, eliminating the need for intermediaries or sponsors.
Transformation in Visa Stamping
The UAE government has transitioned from passport visa stamping to Emirates ID card issuance. This shift streamlines application processes and minimizes processing durations.
Revision in Visit Visa Extension
Extensions of visit visas within the UAE require travelers to exit the country, seek extensions in neighboring Middle Eastern nations, and re-enter once approval is granted.
5-Year Multiple Entry Visa
An innovative visa category now permits self-sponsored individuals to enter the UAE multiple times over a span of five years, granting a 90-day stay per entry. Extension options for an additional 90 days are available, and application requirements comprise a bank statement, UAE health insurance, flight itinerary, and a letter of invitation from UAE-based family or friends.
Expansion of Golden Visa
Notable adjustments have been made to the Golden Visa program, broadening the eligibility criteria and extending visa validity to ten years. This encompasses various categories, such as business investors, entrepreneurs, talents, researchers, students, graduates, and workers.
Golden visa holders and their families now benefit from an extended 6-month grace period after visa expiration or cancellation to modify their status or depart the country.
These revised regulations reflect the UAE’s commitment to enhancing the visa application process, accommodating extended stays, and catering to diverse visitor and resident requirements.
Also Read: The Complete Guide to Apply Emirates ID in the UAE
What are the visa requirements for entering the UAE?
Before traveling to the UAE, you need to check whether you require a visa to enter the country. The UAE visa information and requirements vary based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Most tourists visiting the UAE need to apply for a visa prior to their travel.
Entry requirements for tourists
Tourists visiting the UAE need to have a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months from the date of entry. In addition to the passport, they are required to apply for a tourist visa before entering the UAE. The tourist visa allows visitors to stay in the UAE for a specific period, usually up to 30 days.
Required documents for visa application
When applying for a UAE visa, you will need to submit the following documents:
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photographs
- Copies of your passport and previous visas
- An itinerary of your flight or a reservation for your hotel
- Proof of financial means
Also Read: UAE Visa Check by Passport Number: How to Verify Your Dubai Visa Status Online
Types of UAE Visas 2023
There are various types of visas available for visitors to the UAE, including tourist visas, visit visas, and residence visas. The type of visa you require depends on the purpose and duration of your stay in the UAE.
Here’s a table containing information about visa type, requirements, application process, fees, and validity.
| Visa type | Requirements | Application process | Fees | Validity |
| Tourist visa | Passport valid for at least six months beyond intended stay, visa application form, recent passport-sized photograph, medical certificate | Online or at the UAE embassy or consulate | AED 200 | 30 days |
| Business visa | Passport valid for at least six months beyond intended stay, visa application form, recent passport-sized photograph, medical certificate, invitation letter from a UAE sponsor | Online or at UAE embassy or consulate | AED 500 | 90 days |
| Student visa | Passport valid for at least six months beyond intended stay, visa application form, recent passport-sized photograph, medical certificate, acceptance letter from a UAE university | Online or at UAE embassy or consulate | AED 1,000 | One year |
| Work visa | Passport valid for at least six months beyond intended stay, visa application form, recent passport-sized photograph, medical certificate, employment contract from a UAE employer | Online or at UAE embassy or consulate | AED 1,500 | One year |
Also Read: Waiting For Residency Issue in UAE- How To Resolve Emirates ID Issue?
How to Apply for a UAE Visa?
Applying for a visa to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the correct information and preparation, you can easily submit your application for a UAE visa.
In this guide, we will provide you with an overview of the types of UAE visas available to visitors, the requirements for each type of visa, the application process, and the fees associated with each visa type.
Here is a guide on how to apply for a UAE visa,
1. Choose the type of visa you need.
There are different types of UAE visas, each with its own requirements. You can choose from the following:
- Tourist visa: For short-term stays in the UAE for tourism or visiting family and friends.
- Business visa: For longer-term stays in the UAE for business purposes.
- Work visa: For employment in the UAE.
- Student visa: For studying in the UAE.
2. Gather the required documents.
The required documents for a UAE visa will vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. However, some common documents include:
- Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended arrival in the UAE.
- Visa application form: You can download the visa application form from the UAE embassy or consulate website.
- Photo: You must provide a recent passport-sized photo.
- Letter of invitation: If you are applying for a tourist visa, you may need to provide a letter of invitation from a UAE resident.
- Proof of financial support: You must show that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in the UAE. This can be shown through bank statements, credit card statements, or a letter from your employer.
3. Pay the visa application fee
The visa application fee will vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. You can pay the fee online or at the UAE embassy or consulate.
4. Submit your visa application
You can submit your visa application in person at the UAE embassy or consulate, or you can mail it in. Make an appointment in advance if you plan to submit your application in person.
5. Wait for your visa to be processed
The processing time for a UAE visa can vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and the workload of the embassy or consulate. In general, it takes two to three weeks to process a visa application.
6. Collect your visa
Once your visa is processed, you can collect it from the UAE embassy or consulate. You will need to bring your passport and the visa application receipt.
Also Read: How to Update Your Emirates ID Mobile Number – A Step-by-Step Guide
Do GCC citizens need a visa to visit the UAE?
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens, which includes citizens from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, enjoy certain privileges when visiting other GCC countries, including the UAE.
Visa requirements for GCC citizens
The UAE does not require visas for citizens of the GCC. They are allowed to enter the UAE with just their national identification cards or passports. However, if they plan to stay for an extended period or work in the UAE, they need to apply for a residence visa.
Visa on arrival for GCC citizens
GCC citizens do not need to apply for a visa in advance. They can obtain a visa on arrival at the UAE border or airport. The visa on arrival allows them to stay in the UAE for up to 90 days, which can be extended if needed.
Residence visa for GCC citizens
If a GCC citizen plans to work or reside in the UAE, they need to apply for a residence visa. The residence visa requires sponsorship from an employer or a family member who is already a resident of the UAE.
What is the maximum duration of my stay in the UAE if I have a visit visa?
The validity period of visit visas varies based on the type of visa and the purpose of your visit. Generally, visit visas are valid for 30 days, 90 days, or 180 days. It is important to check the validity period of your visa before traveling to the UAE.
Extending your stay in the UAE
If you wish to extend your stay in the UAE, you can apply for an extension before your current visa expires. The extension is subject to approval by the UAE immigration authorities and requires the submission of additional supporting documents.
