UAE Visit Visa - Price, Application, And Visa Status Check
Last Updated : 13 Nov 2023
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Want to invite your family members to visit you in the UAE?
Or maybe you want to travel to the UAE for a short trip or visit your family. But you need to figure out where to start.
Well, you find yourself in the right place. Here you will find all the much-needed information and answers on UAE visas.
Without taking much of your time, let us start!
Do I Need A Visa For UAE?
Whether you need a UAE visa or not will mainly depend on the passport that you hold.
But fortunately, I will cover all the bases in this blog; at the end, you can determine whether you need a UAE visit visa.
Keep reading to find out if you can get a visa on arrival, need a visa before traveling, or if you can enter the country visa-free.
Need Your UAE Tourist Visa In Less Than An Hour?
Did you know that you can get your UAE tourist visa within 30 minutes? Yes, it is possible with Atlys!
Atlys makes the visa application process smooth and easy to follow with the instructions provided on the app. Not just that you can also use free tools such as:
And visa photo tool
The application takes no more than 10 minutes to complete, and you will have your visa in your hands in less than an hour. What is better than this?
In-depth Details About The UAE Visit Visa
There is so much information that you should know about the visit visa. So I thought, let me start by giving you some in-depth information about the visa types and other aspects of the visa.
So let's look at the following:
What Is The UAE Visit Visa And Why Do I Need One?
Is There A Difference Between A UAE Visit Visa And Tourist Visa?
Can I Apply For A UAE Visit Visa On Arrival?
Can I Travel Visa-Free To UAE?
Can I Apply For A UAE Visit Visa Online?
Can I Apply For A UAE Visit Visa Through The UAE Embassy?
What Are The Types Of Visit Visa For UAE?
How Long Can I Stay In UAE Visit With A Valid Visa?
What Is The Visit Visa UAE Price?
What Is The UAE Visit Visa Processing Time?
What Is The UAE Visit Visa And Why Do I Need One?
A UAE Visit Visa (Dubai Visit Visa) is for foreign nationals who are not eligible for a visa on arrival or visa-free entry to the United Arab Emirates.
A Visit Visa UAE is a short-term visa, which means that the Visa is only valid for a short period. If you stay longer than the date of issue (your visa's expiry date), you will get a fine.
This visa allows you to spend time with your family and friends who reside in the UAE on a long-term visa. The validity of a visit visa depends on the visa type; however, they are extendable.
Is There A Difference Between A UAE Visit Visa And Tourist Visa?
There is a small difference between the two visa types. However, to explain better, the difference between the two is that you can apply for a tourist visa yourself without needing sponsorship from your family member in the UAE.
Whereas a visit visa UAE is to visit your friends, relatives, or family members in the UAE on a residence visa. They must sponsor you and apply for the visa on your behalf on online government portals such as ICP or GDRFA service.
At times, people tend to interchange the name and review one type as the other. But in essence, a visit visa - UAE is when you visit friends or family members.
But suppose you do not need to get sponsored. In that case, you can apply for the visa normally through Atlys, airlines, or the other available channels in your country.
Can I Apply For A UAE Visit Visa On Arrival?
If you are eligible for a visa on arrival, this means that you do not need to apply for a visa before traveling to UAE.
However, keep in mind that depending on your passport, you can only stay in the country for a specific number of days.
You can get a Visa On Arrival if you are a citizen of one of the following countries:
VOA for 30 days are:
Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Kazakhstan, Macau, Malaysia, Mauritius, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, San Marino, Singapore, Ukraine, The United Kingdom, United States of America, and Vatican City
VOA for 90 days are:
Argentina, Austria, Bahamas Islands, Barbados, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Demark, 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, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Uruguay
VOA for 180 days are:
Mexican passport holders can get a visa on arrival for 180 days validity.
Special conditions for a VOA:
Indian passport holders that meet specific requirements can apply for a UAE visa on arrival.
If your country is not on the list above, it means that you must get a visit visa for UAE before traveling.
Can I Travel Visa-Free To UAE?
The citizens of GCC countries (the Gulf Cooperation Council) do not require a visa to visit the UAE, which includes:
Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia
However, suppose you have a resident visa for a GCC country. In that case, you can apply for your eVisa through the ICP or GDRFAD website before your arrival. And you cannot apply for a visa on arrival in UAE.
Can I Apply For A UAE Visit Visa Online?
Yes. You can apply for your UAE visit visa online. For example, you can apply through Atlys or Airline web pages that allow online application.
Whereas your sponsors living in UAE can apply on your behalf through online application centers such as the ICP or the GDRFAD website.
However, in some cases, navigating through an online portal can be difficult as each method of applying is different.
The easiest way to apply for your Dubai Tourist Visa online is through Atlys. The entire UAE tourist visa can be done from the comfort of your couch in less than 5 minutes.
Can I Apply For A UAE Visit Visa Through The UAE Embassy?
No. Unfortunately, the UAE embassy does not process visa applications for tourism or visit purposes. Instead, you must apply using one of the methods mentioned in the blog.
But I would suggest you check with the embassy of UAE in your country whether they offer such services.
What Are The Types Of Visit Visa For UAE?
The visa type will differ depending on how long you wish to stay in the country. However, these visa types can be extended should you need to stay in the country for longer.
The UAE government offers the following types of visit visas:
30-Day Single Entry Visit Visa: This tourist visa allows the holder to enter and exit UAE once and stay for the duration of the visa's validity period, which is 30 days.
30-Day Single Multiple Visit Visa: This tourist visa allows the holder to enter and exit UAE multiple times during the validity of the visa, which is 30 days.
60-Days Single Entry Visit Visa: This tourist visa allows the holder to enter and exit UAE once and stay for the duration of the visa's validity period, which is 60 days. This visa type was previously discontinued; however, since October 2022, the visa agents have said they started granting it again, according to the Khaleej Times.
60-Days Multiple Entry Visit Visa: This tourist visa allows the holder to enter and exit UAE multiple times during the validity of the visa, which is 60 days.
90-Day Single Entry Visit Visa: This tourist visa allows the holder to enter and exit UAE once and stay for the duration of the visa's validity period, which is 90 days.
90-Day Single Multiple Visit Visa: This tourist visa allows the holder to enter and exit UAE multiple times during the validity of the visa, which is 90 days.
How Long Can I Stay In UAE Visit With A Valid Visa?
Well, this pretty much depends on the visit visa UAE you applied for. And hence, generally, the maximum validity of your stay period is between 30 to 120 days, and you are either allowed single or multiple entries into the country.
What Is The Visit Visa UAE Price?
The visa fees vary depending on the visa type and where you apply for it. So, depending on your chosen method of application, the visa fee could be more or less.
However, when applying through the GRADFAD, you can expect the following:
Single entry long-period visa:
30-day single entry visit visa: AED 210.
60-day single entry visit visa: AED 315.
90-day single entry visit visa: AED 420.
You can also apply for a friend or family visa, which allows a muli-entry. Here are the fees for the multi-entry visit visa:
30-day multiple entry visit visa: AED 315.
60-day multiple entry visit visa: AED 525.
90-day multi-entry visit visa: AED 945.
There is also an option of applying for a visit visa to explore job or business opportunities. Here are the fees for these visas:
60-day visit visa: AED 210.
90-day visit visa: AED 315.
120-day visit visa: AED 420.
Remember, the visa fees are non-refundable, and depending on what information you put in your application, the visa fee could vary. And you also have to pay a security deposit for the online applications.
What Is The UAE Visit Visa Processing Time?
Generally, if you have all the necessary documentation, the visa processing should take no more than 3 to 5 working days excluding weekends or public holidays in UAE.
However, in some cases, it could take longer, and it all depends on your visa application.
Requirements For Visit Visa UAE
I know. There is a lot to unpack about visas and their requirements. So I decided to break it down for your to easily understand exactly what you will need for your visa application.
What Is The Eligibility Criteria For A UAE Visit Visa When Sponsored?
What Are The Required Documents For The UAE Visit Visa?
What Are The Passport Requirements For The UAE Visit Visa?
What Are The UAE Visit Visa Photo Requirements?
What Are The Financial Requirements For The UAE Visit Visa?
What Are The Requirements For Minors For The UAE Visit Visa?
What Is The Eligibility Criteria For A UAE Visit Visa When Sponsored?
Your sponsor must meet certain eligibility criteria before applying for an entry permit on the online portal.
The requirement criteria the sponsor in UAE must meet are:
You have proof of kinship or relationship with the applicant in the UAE
You have a valid passport
Colour copy of the visitor's passport is required
Colour copy of the visitor's visa photo is required
Proof of accommodation is mandatory
Proof of flight tickets is required
The sponsor must provide a copy of their Emirates ID card
The sponsor must provide a copy of the security deposit for the visitor
The sponsor must provide a copy of their water or electricity bill
Pakistani, Iraqi, Iranian, and Afghan applicants must provide a copy of their national ID
Lastly, for children, a copy of their attested birth certificate is required
Remember that you must send documents copies to the sponsor in UAE for them to apply on your behalf.
What Are The Required Documents For The UAE Visit Visa?
If you do not have a sponsor, then you can apply yourself for a UAE tourist visa, and you will need the following documents:
A valid passport: Your valid passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after your visa expiry date.
A return flight ticket: This is to show that you'll leave Dubai before your visa expires.
A recent passport-size photograph: Your passport-size photograph must have a white background.
Hotel bookings: To show that you have a place to stay during your stay in Dubai (hotel bookings).
Proof of sufficient funds: You must provide bank statements to prove that you have enough funds to cover your trip.
Travel or medical insurance valid in the UAE is advised.
Remember, handwritten passports are not accepted when applying for your visa, and they must be machine-readable passports.
What Are The Passport Requirements For The UAE Visit Visa?
The visitor's passport must meet the following requirements:
The visitor's passport's validity must have a minimum validity of at least six months on arrival in UAE.
The passport must have a minimum of two empty pages.
The passport must be in good condition.
If you are transiting in UAE, the passport must be valid for 3 months.
What Are The UAE Visit Visa Photo Requirements?
The visitor's passport-size photograph must meet the following requirements:
TWO visitor's passport-size photograph
The size must be 4x6 cm size
It must be on a white background
Must show the front view, bare head, without sunglasses
One photo must be attached to the form, and the other separate
What Are The Financial Requirements For The UAE Visit Visa?
The sponsor must pay the security deposit of 1,025 AED to 2,025 AED depending on the visa type your need.
If you are applying for a visa yourself, you must provide 3 months' bank statements that show enough funds to sustain yourself and your family for the duration of your trip. The amount in your bank account must not be less than AED 3000.
What Are The Requirements For Minors For The UAE Visit Visa?
If applying for minors, make sure you have attested copies of their birth certificate.
Also, according to a Cabinet resolution passed in July 2018, children under 18 years of age accompanying adults can get a free visa for their visit from 15 July to 15 September each year.
However, females below 18 are not eligible to apply for this visa unless they travel to Dubai with their parents.
Visa Application For UAE Visit Visa
Yup. It has been a whole lot of information to take. But fortunately, now I get to tell you how to apply for a visit visa UAE, and you can see how easy it is!
So let's see how you can get your entry permit for UAE:
Where Can I Apply For The UAE Visit Visa?
What Is The Fastest Way To Get A UAE Visit Visa?
How To Apply For The UAE Visit Visa Online On GDRFAD?
How To Apply For The UAE Visit Visa Online On ICP?
How To Check Visit Visa Status UAE?
What To Expect When Arriving In UAE Visit?
Where Can I Apply For The UAE Visit Visa?
There are several ways of getting your UAE visa; however, let me break it down even further on which way would be the best for you.
If you want to apply for a UAE tourist visa yourself, which allows you to visit friends and family as well, you can do so through the following:
Atlys to apply directly from your phone
Airlines such as Etihad Airways, Emirates Airline, Fly Dubai, Air Arabia
Visa application center in your country
Visa agents that are approved in your country
Hotels in the UAE can also assist in visa application
If you have a sponsor in the UAE, they can apply for the visit visa UAE through:
Your sponsor can also visit Service Centers, AMER, or Typing Centers near them to submit their visa applications.
What Is The Fastest Way To Get A UAE Visit Visa?
The easiest and fastest way to get your UAE visa is through Atlys; simply download the app and get started. From start to finish, the visa application process takes no more than 10 minutes to complete.
You can also take your visa photo on the app and do not need to upload anything on the app. In addition, the app allows you to scan your passport copy and also generate free hotel and flight itineraries.
Get it all in one app with Atlys!
How To Apply For The UAE Visit Visa Online On GDRFAD?
Applying for a Dubai visa yourself is a straightforward process; however, it might differ depending on your chosen method.
However, here we will discuss how your sponsor living in Dubai can apply for a visa on your behalf. First, let's look at the process when applying through the GDRFAD website:
Start by visiting the GDRFAD website or simply using the GDRFAD app on your mobile phone
Click on Services on the top menu bar on the website
Here you must click on Entry Permits, then click onEntry Permit Service and Issuance of Entry Permit
Here, you must choose the visa type that you wish to apply for
After you have chosen the visa types, you can click on Start Service as shown in the screenshot below
This will take you to the next webpage, where the applicant in UAE must log in with their email address and password
Once you are in, you can start filling out the visa application form
You must give the visit details, sponsor's details, the applicant's details, contact details, and passport details
Next, you must upload the necessary documents on the portal, pay the visa fees, and submit your visa application
After your visa application is processed, the sponsor in UAE will receive the approved e-visa copy on the portal.
You must print and carry the approved e-visa copy with you when traveling.
How To Apply For The UAE Visit Visa Online On ICP?
Lastly, let's look at the process when applying through the ICP portal. The ICP portal allows ex-pats living in emirates other than Dubai to apply online.
And this is how they can apply online:
First, they must visit the smart services ICP website
Here, you can simply search for " Visit Visa," which will give you all the available visa types
You must then choose the visa option that best suits your needs
Then, you can log into your account online or use the ICP app on your mobile phone
You must start filling out your visa application form online and provide all the required information
The next step is to upload all your documents mentioned earlier in the blog
Lastly, you must pay the visa application fee and submit your application
The visa application will take a few days to process, and you will receive a copy of your eVisa through your email address.
How To Check Visit Visa Status UAE?
To check the visit visa status for UAE on GDRFAD, you must take the following steps:
Visit the General Directorate Of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website
Choose Residence Validity on the dropdown option.
Fill in your Residence visa File Number. You can find the residence file number on your visa page on the passport.
Enter your full name as shown on your passport.
Select your Gender.
Enter Your Date of Birth: make sure to enter the date of birth in the correct format (dd-mm-yyyy).
Check the captcha check box.
Click on submit.
Here you should be able to choose the visa application and track the status of your application.
To check the visit visa status for UAE on ICP, you must take the following steps:
Visit the service portal
Select the Passport Information Tab
Select Visa Option
Enter Your Passport Number
Enter your Passport Expiry Date
Select Your Nationality
Check the Captcha Checkbox
Select the Search Tab
After this, you should be able to check and download your approved visa.
What To Expect When Arriving In UAE Visit?
Once you have your immigration approval or eVisa, you are ready to travel to the UAE. You must have the necessary documents with you to show the immigration authorities, such as:
Passport with 6 months validity
An eVisa
Covid vaccination certificate if fully vaccinated
Or negative covid test result if not fully vaccinated
Proof of accommodation and flight tickets
The immigration authorities will check the documents and stamp your passport, and you will be allowed to enter the country.
Additional Information On UAE Visa
You now should know more or less everything about the visit visa. But I thought of adding additional information that will be helpful to you.
UAE Visit Visa Rules While In UAE Visit
Can I Extend My UAE Visa?
How Can I Extend My UAE Visa?
How Much Is The Visit Visa Extension UAE Fee 2022?
What Happens If I Overstay In UAE Visa?
Can I Work In UAE Visit With My UAE Visit Visa?
UAE Visit Visa Rules While In UAE Visit
UAE is very strict with its immigration rules. And since the majority of their processes are centralized and computerized, it is extremely difficult to get away with anything.
So I decided to add a few rules that you should follow during your visit to the UAE:
If you are a GCC resident, you cannot renew your visit visa
You cannot overstay your visa without extending your tourist or visit visa to UAE
You cannot work or study on a visit visa
You cannot take up residency with a visit visa for UAE
Can I Extend My UAE Visa?
Yes, you can. You can extend all types of visit and tourist visas for 30 days twice upon applying for it and after successful approval by the relevant authority. You can do this without leaving the country.
You can apply for the second renewal before the expiry of the first one against AED 600 for each time of renewal.
As mentioned above, visa overstayers who do not renew will have to pay AED 100 fine for each day of their overstay, to be calculated 10 days after the visa expiry.
Additionally, for citizens legible for VOA, if you have fully utilized the 30 or 90 days stay within 6 months, you can still apply for a pre-arranged visa which allows them to stay in the UAE for up to 90 days.
How Can I Extend My UAE Visa?
You can apply for a visa extension through the Federal Authority For Identity & Citizenship, Customs & Port Security website. When accessing the website, click on the "Public Visa Service" option. This will take you straight to the page where you can apply for your Dubai Tourist Visa extension.
First, you must provide your passport number, passport type, date of birth, and nationality. Then, at the bottom of the page, you'll see the types of Dubai Tourist Visas you can extend.
The visa extension process is very straightforward; you must provide personal information, attach the required documents (the same documents as your visa application), and then pay the service fee.
How Much Is The Visit Visa Extension UAE Fee 2022?
The visit visa extension UAE fee 2022 is AED 600 for each visa extension. And you can extend your visit visa for UAE twice for 30 days each.
What Happens If I Overstay In UAE Visa?
If you are on a visit visa UAE and overstay your visa validity, you will be fined and deported. However, you have a 10 days grace period after your visa expires to extend or renew your visa.
If you fail to do so and the 10-day grace period has passed, you will have to pay the following fine:
After overstaying your first day after the grace period, you pay AED 200
After that, you pay AED100 for each consecutive day
And an additional AED 100, as service fees
Can I Work In UAE Visit With My UAE Visit Visa?
No. You cannot work in the UAE on a visit visa since it is illegal. You need a valid work permit and an employment visa to be able to work in the country.
If you are caught working on a visit visa or tourist visa, you could end up getting fined and deported.
That's Everything About The UAE Visas!
Well, that is all I have for you in this blog!
I hope you got all the information you needed for your UAE visa application. Feel free to check out the FAQ should there be any more doubts.
I wish you all the best with your visa application, and enjoy visiting your family in the UAE!
Happy Travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
There are several other types of visas available, such as:
Work visa that allows you to work legally in the country
Student visa that allows you to study at registered educational institutions in UAE
You can also apply for a long-term visit visa for UAE
In case you need to transit, you must get a Transit visa unless you belong to a VOA or visa-free country