While more than 80 nationalities enjoy visa-free entry into the UAE, it’s worth noting that even if your passport doesn’t belong to one of those countries, you might still be eligible for a visa on arrival under specific circumstances. Indian citizens holding regular passports can secure a 14-day visa on arrival, provided they meet certain criteria, Khaleej Times reported. Here’s what you need to know:
Who Qualifies for the 14-Day Visa on Arrival?
Indian citizens holding regular passports are eligible for a 14-day visa on arrival if they possess one of the following:
A visit visa issued by the United States
A green card issued by the United States
A residence visa issued by the United Kingdom
A residence visa issued by a European Union (EU) country
Please note that the visa or green card must be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the UAE, and your passport must also have a minimum validity of six months from the date of entry.
Can I Apply for the Visa in Advance?
Yes, Indian citizens eligible for a visa on arrival have the option to apply for the visa online in advance through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) portal – smartservices.icp.gov.ae. The primary advantage of this service is that you won’t have to wait in line at the airport to obtain your visa on arrival; it will already be with you.
Here are the steps to apply in advance:
Visit the website smartservices.icp.gov.ae and click on ‘Public Visa Services’ in the menu tab.
Look for the service ‘Issue Entry Permit For Holders Of Special Visas’ and click on the ‘start service’ button.
Complete the application form with your personal information, passport details, and visa information.
Enter your UAE address, which can be a hotel or residential address.
Provide details about your special visa.
Upload copies of your passport, EU/US/UK visit visa, and residence permit or green card.
How to Extend the Visa on Arrival?
According to the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the 14-day visa on arrival can be extended for an additional 14 days. The process for extending the visa depends on your location:
In Dubai, you can apply for an extension through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD).
For Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, you should contact ICP for the visa extension.
To extend your visa, visit a registered typing center or an Amer center (which processes tourist and residence visas on behalf of GDRFAD). You can find the locations of Amer Centers in Dubai on the GDRFAD website and authorized typing offices in each emirate on the ICP website.
Cost for Online Application
When applying online in advance, please be aware of the following fees:
Visa issuance fee: Dh100
E-Services fee: Dh28
ICP fees: Dh22
Smart services fee: Dh100
Keep in mind that service fees may vary depending on the information provided in your application. For the most up-to-date fee information, refer to the ICP website.
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