Last Updated on: 27th June 2023, 04:28 pm
UAE Announces Massive Increase in Visa Fees And Changes To Visit Visa Regime
In October 2022, the United Arab Emirates introduced the Advanced Visa System, a major overhaul of its visa procedures led by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). This was one of the most important residency and immigration reforms in the country’s history.
Since then, the UAE has continued to make progress on its visit visa system. Recently, the fees for issuing ID, visitor, and resident visas to the Emirates have been increased. This change affects all services provided by ICP, as confirmed by a representative.
Under the new fee structure, purchasing an Emirates ID card now costs Dh370 instead of Dh270. Likewise, the fee for issuing a one-month visit visa has been increased from Dh270 to Dh370.
In addition, five other amendments to the UAE’s visit visa regime have been enacted.
No More Visa Extensions of Visitors Within UAE
Visitor visa holders no longer have the option to extend their visas within the country. This means that those on visit visas wishing to continue their stay must leave the United Arab Emirates and return on a new visit visa.
According to Afi Ahmed, CEO of Smart Travels, “Visitors have the option to extend their visa by a month for a fee. After that, they have to leave the country by air or land and can return.”
The 5-Year Multiple-Entry Visa is Now Open To Tourists
Tourists visiting the UAE are now available with the 5-year multiple-entry visa, which allows them to enter the country multiple times through self-sponsorship and stay in the country for 90 days on each visit.
Also, holders can extend their visas for 90 days without leaving the country. This new visa is a great opportunity for non-UAE families to spend more time with their loved ones in the country.
However, those applying for the multiple entry visa are required to provide supporting documents including a bank statement within the last six months showing a balance of US$4,000 or foreign currency equivalent, proof of UAE health insurance, a copy of the flight ticket, and proof residence, such as B. A letter of invitation from friends and family in the UAE.
Tourist Visa Holders Must Pay An Overstay Penalty
If tourists overstay their UAE visit visa, they must pay a fine and obtain an exit permit or exit permit for an additional fee before leaving the country.
This policy is specific to those departing from Dubai. Visitors from other UAE emirates do not need to purchase a pass.
A Restart Of The 60-Day Visit Visa
The issuance of 60-day visit visas has resumed in the UAE. Tourists now have the option to choose between 30- and 60-day visit visas when planning their trip to the country.
Special Permission For Gatherings With Friends And Family
A new entry permit has been introduced for visitors wishing to visit family or friends in the UAE. This permit allows visitors to apply without going through a travel agent as long as they are family members or friends of UAE citizens or residents.
The friend or relative can sponsor the visitor by paying a refundable deposit of Dh1000.
Also Read: 55% Of Workers in The UAE Expect To Lose Their Job Soon