United Arab Emirates (UAE) Visa Guide
Visa Types
The UAE offers various visa types depending on the purpose of travel:
- Tourist Visa: For leisure travel, valid for up to 90 days.
- Visit Visa: For short-term visits for business, medical, or family purposes, valid for up to 90 days.
- Residence Visa: For long-term stay in the UAE for work, study, or investment, valid for up to 2 or 3 years.
- Transit Visa: For passengers transiting through the UAE, valid for up to 96 hours.
Required Documents
The required documents for a UAE visa vary depending on the type of visa and nationality of the applicant. Common documents include:
- Passport with a validity of at least 6 months
- Passport-size photograph
- Visa application form
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of onward travel (for transit visas)
- Invitation letter (for visit visas)
- Employment contract or business registration (for residence visas)
Application Procedures
Visa applications can be submitted online, through UAE embassies or consulates, or via travel agencies.
Online Application:
- Visit the website of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA): https://ica.gov.ae/en/
- Create an account and complete the online application form.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the visa fee using a credit card.
Embassy or Consulate Application:
- Visit the nearest UAE embassy or consulate in your country.
- Collect the visa application form.
- Fill out the form and submit it along with the required documents.
- Pay the visa fee in person.
Travel Agency Application:
- Contact a reputable travel agency in your country that offers visa services for the UAE.
- Provide the travel agency with your passport and other required documents.
- The agency will assist you with the application process and submit it to the ICA on your behalf.
Fees
The visa fees vary depending on the type of visa, nationality, and processing time. Typical fees range from AED 300-1,500 (approx. USD 82-408).
Timelines
Processing times for UAE visas vary depending on the type of visa and the volume of applications. In general:
- Tourist and visit visas: 1-3 business days
- Residence visas: 2-4 weeks
- Transit visas: 24-48 hours
Additional Information
- Some nationalities may be eligible for visa-on-arrival, which is granted upon arrival at the UAE airport.
- Visa extensions are possible for certain visa types, subject to ICA approval.
- Overstaying your visa may result in fines and penalties.
- It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your intended travel dates.
- Contact the nearest UAE embassy or consulate for specific requirements and up-to-date information.
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