To be eligible for a pre-approved visa-on-arrival for 14-day visits to the UAE, Indian nationals in possession of an ordinary passport and a US green card or residence visa in the United Kingdom or the European Union must first submit an online application.
UAE Visa Policy for Indian Travelers with US, UK, or EU Residency
The UAE has updated its visa policies for Indian nationals who hold a US green card or a residence visa in the UK or European Union (EU) countries. This update primarily affects how these travelers can obtain a visa-on-arrival when visiting the UAE. The key changes and requirements are outlined below.
The New Application Process
Previously, Indian travelers with the requisite residency in the US, UK, or EU were granted a visa-on-arrival upon reaching UAE airports. This visa was stamped at the immigration counter, allowing entry for a period of 14 days. However, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai has now mandated that these travelers must apply online for a pre-approved visa-on-arrival before their journey.
To avail of this pre-approved visa-on-arrival, eligible Indian travelers must follow these steps:
- Visit the GDRFA website: The application process begins at https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae.
- Register Details: Travelers must create an account and register their personal details.
- Complete the application: To complete the application, you must provide supporting papers, such as a current passport or travel document, a green card granted by the United States, or a resident visa issued by a country in the European Union or the United Kingdom.
- Upload a Personal Photo: A white background is required.
- Payment: The application fee is Dh253.
- Awaiting Approval: The anticipated time of completion is forty-eight hours from the date of submission. The visa that has been granted will be emailed to the user.
Once approved, this visa allows entry into the UAE for 14 days, which can be extended for an additional 14 days one time only.
Requirements and Conditions
- The GDRFA has set forth specific requirements and conditions for obtaining this short-term visit visa. These include:
- No Entry Restrictions: The traveler must not have any restrictions that would prevent entry into the UAE.
- Passport Validity: The passport or travel document must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Residency Validity: The green card or residence visa must also be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- These conditions ensure that travelers meet the necessary legal and administrative criteria before entering the UAE.
If travelers wish to extend their stay beyond the initial 14 days, they can apply for an extension. The extension is granted for another 14 days and can only be done once. This offers some flexibility for travelers who may need a longer stay in the UAE for personal or business reasons.
The updated visa policy reflects the UAE's efforts to streamline its immigration processes while ensuring security and compliance with international residency standards. Indian nationals with US, UK, or EU residency who plan to visit the UAE must now prepare by applying online for a pre-approved visa-on-arrival. By following the outlined steps and meeting the specified conditions, eligible travelers can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free entry into the UAE, ensuring their visit is both legal and convenient.
For more detailed information, travelers are encouraged to visit the GDRFA website and stay informed about any further updates to the visa application process. This proactive approach will help avoid any last-minute complications or delays when planning a trip to the UAE.
