UAE Tourist Visa Guide
Whether you’re jetting off to the UK, USA, various African countries, or even EU destinations from India, you’ll likely encounter a layover or transit in a UAE airport. If you plan to stay in the UAE for more than 8 hours during your transit, you’ll need a UAE Transit Visa. This definitive guide focuses on the UAE Tourist Visa, especially for Indian citizens.
What is a UAE Tourist Visa? The UAE Tourist Visa is a vital document for travelers visiting the Emirates. While citizens of GCC countries and certain visa-exempt nations receive visas upon arrival, Indian citizens must apply for a UAE tourist visa. This visa can be issued for 30 days with options for single or multiple entries. Additionally, there’s a long-term tourist visa available for those wishing to stay up to 90 days.
How to Obtain a UAE Tourist Visa from India? Obtaining a UAE tourist visa involves a unique process. The UAE embassy in India issues visas exclusively to diplomatic passport holders. For all other passport holders, applications must be made through UAE-based airlines, reputable travel agencies, or the hotel where you plan to stay, as they can act as your sponsor and apply for the visa in the UAE. Here’s the step-by-step online application process:
Choose Your Application Method: Decide on the application method that suits you best.
Gather Necessary Documents: Collect the required documents for your visa.
Complete Application Forms: Fill out the application forms available on airline websites or at travel agencies. Alternatively, visit their offices for assistance.
Upload Documents: Upload the necessary documents to the respective online portals.
Pay Visa Fees: Make online payments for the visa fees.
Submit Your Application: Complete your application by submitting it online.
Ensure you provide accurate and genuine information in your application to avoid refusals. A rejected visa stamp on your passport can affect future applications. If you’re flying with UAE-based airlines like FlyDubai or Emirates to Dubai, you can apply at Dubai Visa Processing Centres (DVPC).
Eligibility for UAE Tourist Visa: To be eligible for this visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Possess a passport valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.
- Not be a citizen of GCC countries or visa-exempt countries.
- Hold an ordinary passport.
- Have tourism as your sole purpose of visit.
- For females under 18, travel must be accompanied by family members.
During Your Stay with a UAE Tourist Visa: Once you obtain your tourist permit, keep these key points in mind:
- Carry a printed copy of your visa as part of your travel documents.
- Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including your passport and identification.
- Obtain “OK to board” status if required.
- Be aware of your UAE tourist visa’s validity, as overstaying is a criminal offense with potential fines and penalties.
- If you applied through a UAE-based airline, you must fly with them to the UAE.
- While on a tourist permit, you cannot work or engage in business activities.
- You can extend your visa by applying for a UAE tourist visa renewal.
Documents Required for UAE Tourist Visa: The documents you need to submit for your application include:
- A passport with at least 6 months’ validity from your arrival date.
- Color copies of your passport.
- Confirmed round-trip flight tickets.
- Two colored photographs.
- Proof of occupation.
UAE Tourist Visa Photo Specifications:
- Dimensions: 35X45 mm
- Recently captured
- Face: directed towards the camera
- Eyes: open and looking straight at the camera
- Background: plain white
- Headgear: allowed for religious purposes
- Glasses: only prescription eyewear
- Neutral facial expression
Processing Time of UAE Tourist Visa: Normally, UAE tourist visas are issued within 3-5 working days. However, processing times may vary based on factors such as express processing options, visa duration, entry type, and document complications. Your processing time may also be expedited based on your travel history, including having previous visas to Schengen, the UK, the USA, etc., in the past 5 years or if you possess an invitation from a family member in the UAE.
UAE Tourist Visa Charges: The cost of a UAE tourist visa depends on several factors, including the number of entries, visa duration, and any additional charges for express options, as well as service charges from the airline, hotel, or travel agency.
After Submission: Once your application is submitted and approved, you’ll receive updates via email. If approved, you’ll receive your permit in the form of an e-visa via email. You must print a copy and carry it with your travel documents. You should also email the visa to the airline you booked your ticket with to obtain “OK to board” status, if required. Even with a valid permit, you won’t be allowed to board if your PNR is not linked with it.
How to Check Visa Status: You can check your application status in several ways. Airlines and travel agencies often offer online portals for status tracking. Alternatively, you can contact the agency, airline, or hotel for updates. If you applied through DVPC, you can track your application by visiting their website and entering your reference number and passport expiry date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can extend short-term UAE tourist visas, but the process involves additional fees. You can apply for an extension up to two times for a maximum duration of 60 days. Contact the travel agency through which you applied for assistance.
No, you cannot stay in the UAE after your tourist visa expires. Overstaying is a criminal offense and may lead to fines, penalties, and possible deportation. If you wish to extend your stay, you must apply for an extension.
Generally, there is no mandatory medical test requirement for short-term tourist visas. However, it’s recommended to undergo a medical check-up before traveling to a foreign country for your safety and the safety of others in the UAE.
You cannot directly convert a tourist permit into a work permit by yourself. Your employer in the UAE must apply for an employment visa on your behalf. You may need to leave the country and re-enter once the work permit is approved. Mandatory medical tests are also part of the work permit process.
There is no fixed monetary value for the required funds. You should have sufficient funds to cover daily expenses, including accommodation, food, and travel. Bank statements should demonstrate consistent transactions and ample funds for your entire stay.