Discover the eligibility criteria, costs, duration, and the process for applying online in advance. Traveling to the UAE has become more accessible for certain Indian passport holders, as an increasing number of Indian citizens are now eligible for a visa on arrival.
Dubai: Indian passport holders with tourist visas or resident permits from the European Union (EU), the United States (US), or the United Kingdom (UK) are now eligible for visas on arrival in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Since 2017, Indian citizens holding a valid US visa or Green Card, as well as residency permits for the EU or UK, have been able to obtain visas on arrival in the UAE. In a recent expansion announced in 2024, this scheme now includes Indian nationals with valid tourist visas from the EU, US, and UK, allowing them to enjoy visa-on-arrival access.
Eligible travelers can choose between a 14-day visa, which can be extended for an additional 14 days, or a non-extendable 60-day visa. To qualify, passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the UAE.
Who is Eligible for Visa on Arrival?
Indian citizens and their family members holding ordinary passports are eligible for a visa on arrival at all UAE entry points if they possess:
- A valid tourist visa, residence permit, or Green Card issued by the United States, or
- A valid tourist visa or residence permit issued by EU countries or the United Kingdom.
Important Note: All visas, permits, and passports must have a minimum validity of six months from the date of entry into the UAE.
How Long Can You Stay?
14-Day Visa on Arrival: This option permits an initial stay of 14 days, with the possibility of extending your stay for an additional 14 days (additional fees apply), provided your EU, US, or UK visa remains valid and your passport has at least six months of validity.
60-Day Visa on Arrival: This non-extendable option is perfect for those planning longer trips, allowing you to stay for a full 60 days.
Visa-On-Arrival Costs
- 14-Day Entry Visa: AED 100
- 14-Day Extension: AED 250
- 60-Day Visa: AED 250 (non-extendable)
How to Apply for a UAE Visa on Arrival
To obtain your visa on arrival, you must apply online in advance. Here’s how you can do it:
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) – Dubai: For travelers arriving in Dubai, visit gov.ae for visa information and services.
- Emirates Pre-Approved Visa: Available for passengers traveling with Emirates Airlines, this option simplifies the visa application process.
- ICP Website: For additional visa services, visit icp.gov.ae.
- Travel Agency: Consider using a travel agency to assist with your visa application and travel arrangements.
Required Documents for Visa on Arrival
- A copy of your valid Indian passport: Ensure it includes both the bio-data and address pages, with a minimum validity of six months.
- A recent passport-sized photograph: The photo should have a white background.
- A copy of your valid tourist visa or residence permit: This must be from the US, UK, or EU, and also valid for at least six months.
How to Apply via GDRFA Dubai
- Visit the Website: Go to gov.ae and click on ‘Login.’ Select ‘Register with Email’ to create a new account.
- Create an Account: Enter your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, email address, and password. You will receive a one-time password (OTP) via email. Enter the OTP, accept the terms, and complete your registration.
- Log In: Use your new credentials to log in. On your dashboard, click on ‘New Application’ and select ‘New Visit Entry Permit – Indian.’
- Complete the Application: Fill in the required information, including your full name, passport details, and visa or residence permit information.
- Upload Documents: Attach the necessary documents and review all details before submitting your application and payment.
- Receive Your Visa: After submission, you should receive your visa via email within 48 hours.
How to Apply via ICP
- Visit the Website: Go to icp.gov.ae and select ‘Public Visa Services.’
- Select Service: Locate the service titled ‘Issue Entry Permit for Holders of Special Visas’ and click on ‘Start Service.’
- Complete the Application: Fill out the application form with your personal details, including your name, passport number, nationality, and visa information.
- Provide UAE Address: Enter your UAE address, which can be either a hotel or a residential address.
- Upload Required Documents: Attach the necessary documents, such as a copy of your passport and your visa or residence permit, then submit your application.
- Once processed, you will receive your visa via email within 48 hours.
Pre-Approval for Emirates Passengers
If you’re traveling with Emirates, you can take advantage of their pre-approved visa-on-arrival service, which was launched earlier this year. This convenient option allows eligible Indian nationals to skip immigration queues upon arrival in Dubai.
To apply for the visa-on-arrival entry permit, simply navigate to the ‘Manage Your Booking’ section on emirates.com. There, you will be directed to the Dubai Visa Processing Centre (DVPC) for further assistance.
For additional information, please visit the Emirates website.
