United Arab Emirates Visa | How To Apply

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular tourist destination for its luxurious shopping, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. As a result, many people are eager to travel to the UAE, whether for leisure or business.

Fortunately, the UAE has kept its visa process simple and affordable for all tourists.

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a UAE visa, including the various types of keys available and the step-by-step application process, to assist travelers in navigating the visa application process and ensuring them a stress-free visit to the UAE.

Before you begin the application process, you must have all the necessary information and documents ready. Read this article to the end to ensure you understand the procedure.

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Types of UAE Visas For UAE

Some nationalities are eligible for visas upon arrival, while others must apply in advance. You can figure out if you qualify for a “visa on arrival” by clicking on the following link:

If you don’t find your nationality in the visa-on-arrival category, here are the types of tickets you can apply for:

1. The Transit visa is a short-term visa that allows you to travel for 48-96 hours.
2. The Tourist visa allows you to make a 30-day or a 90-day stay in the country. This visa also allows you to create multiple entries into the country.
3. The 5-year multiple-entry visa allows you a permit to the country for five years. The only catch is that you can stay in this country for up to 90 days on each visit. You can, however, extend your visa for an additional 90 days. 
4. The new Job-Seeker visa allows you to enter the country without being hosted or sponsored.
5. The Student visa is provided to candidates willing to get an education from the UAE. The university must sponsor the student. This is a 1-year visa that can be extended if certified proof of continuation of studies is provided.

Besides the visas mentioned above, others include:

1. Retirement visa
2. Company shareholder visa
3. UAE resident visa
4. Golden visa

Furthermore, you may be eligible for numerous benefits with GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) citizenship. Here are a few examples:

• You are granted visa-free entry to the UAE. All that is required is a passport or a National Identity Card.
• Compared to other countries citizens, you will be eligible for lower fees.
• Your processing time will be prioritized over others.

Required Documents For UAE Visa

This is the list of all the required documents for the application of your visa:

1. Your passport and photocopies of your passport and the access of your sponsor. Your ticket must have at least six months of validity after your return date.
2. Two passport-size pictures.
3. Proof of valid return to your country or your onward travel. This includes booking of return flight, flight number, and flight date. 
4. Proof of accommodation. If you are staying at a motel, you need confirmation of reservation, or if you are staying with an accomplice, you need to have a letter stating their consent.
5. Proof of your financial stability. This is required to verify that you can afford your trip. You are required to provide your bank statements and, in some cases, proof of employment.
6. A letter by you stating your reason for traveling to the UAE and how long you are willing to stay.
7. Proof of medical insurance.

How To Apply For UAE Visa – A Step-by-Step Guide

Here is the complete guide on applying for your visa, whether you are eligible for a “visa on arrival” or not.

For Countries That Are Not Eligible For “Visa On Arrival”

Unlike many countries that allow tourists to apply for their visas through embassies or consulates, the UAE does not allow this. You can have an agency or an airline submit the visa application on your behalf.

Submitting a UAE visa application through an airline is a convenient option for travelers flying to the UAE. Airlines that provide visa application services include:

• Etihad Airways 
• Emirates Airlines 
• Fly Dubai
• Air Arabia

All these airlines have their visa policies but follow the same pattern. Here are the steps to submit a UAE visa application through airlines:

1. Airlines require that you book a flight with them first to proceed with the visa application.
2. Once you have booked your flight, you will be guided to the visa application section.
3. Enter all your required information honestly and accurately.
4. Submit your documents.
5. Pay your dues within the specified time limit.
6. Track your visa application status.
7. Collect your visa via a visa processing agency or email.

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Visa-On-Arrival” Eligible Countries”

You don’t need to follow lengthy procedures if you fall under the “visa on arrival” category. All you need are the required documents, the most important of which is the passport. Your visa will be stamped on your passport after checking if you hold citizenship in any selected country.

1. eVisa

The UAE eVisa, also known as an electronic visa, is an online application system that allows visitors to apply for various permits, including tourist, visit, and transit. 

The application process consists of filling out an online form and submitting supporting documentation; visa processing time can range between 7 and 14 days.

The eVisa system allows visitors to track the status of their visa application online. Once approved, the visa is emailed to the applicant to print and present to immigration officials upon arrival in the UAE.

However, not all nationalities are eligible for eVisas; therefore, specific visa requirements and eligibility must be confirmed with the relevant embassy or immigration authority.

1. Expenses

The following is a cost breakdown for the various types of visas available:

• Tourist Visa:

1. AED 497 (approximately 135 USD) for a 14-day visa
2. AED 587 (about 160 USD) for a 30-day visa
3. AED 1,198 (about 325 USD) for a 90-day visa

• Transit Visa

1. AED 50 (approximately 14 USD) for a 48-hour visa
2. AED 150 (about 41 USD) for a 96-hour visa

• Visit Visa

1. AED 690 (approximately 188 USD) for a 30-day visa
2. AED 1,900 (about 517 USD) for a 90-day visa 

• Work Visa

1. AED 3,000 (approximately 816 USD) for an employment visa.
2. AED 2,500 (about 680 USD) for a residence visa.

Inflationary pressures may cause these prices to rise. To avoid unpleasant surprises, double-check the prices before applying.

For how long does one have to wait for a visa??

The processing time for a visa application to the UAE varies depending on the type of visa and the method of processing. 

Here is an overview of the average processing times for various types of UAE visas:

• Tourist visa: The processing time for a visa for tourism in the UAE is typically 2-5 working days.
• Visit access: The processing time for a UAE visit visa generally is between 2-10 working days.
• Transit visa: A transit visa to the UAE normally takes 1-3 working days to process.

Can I Extend My UAE Visa?

Yes, for a fee of AED 600, you can extend almost any visa for an additional 30 days. This extension must be completed before your visa expires, or you will be fined depending on how late you pay it and for what ticket.

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Frequently Asked Questions 

How to Apply for UAE Visa for GCC Residents?

If you’re a GCC resident, you can apply for a UAE visa through eVisa. This is the process of applying for a visa through an online system. Once you have entered your information and paid the fee, your visa will be issued in no time.

How to Apply for UAE Visa From Nigeria?

For Nigerians, the easiest way to do this is by applying online through one of several approved visa agencies. You only need basic information like name and passport number. After paying the applicable fee, you should receive your visa within 5-7 business days.

How to Apply For UAE Visa From Canada?

Canadians can apply for an eVisa online before they leave home. You only need your passport details and basic information about your trip. You must also pay a fee before your visa can be issued. Typically you get the ticket within five days. However, the duration can go long according to the terms and conditions. 

How To Apply For UAE Visa From Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabian citizens can seek an eVisa before their trip by visiting one of several approved websites that specialize in processing visas from GCC countries like Saudi Arabia. Your passport should arrive within seven working days after submitting your application. Ensure you get the payment receipts to add them to your visa documents as proof. 

Conclusion

While applying for the visa might seem daunting, with proper planning and preparation, applying for the UAE visa is straightforward. Visitors can look forward to experiencing the country’s unique culture, stunning landscapes, and exciting attractions.

I hope you’ve got complete knowledge about applying for a UAE visa. UAE welcomes almost all countries worldwide. So no matter in which country you live, follow the guide and apply for your visa today.