UAE Introduces Visa Extension - New Changes in the UAE Visa Policy
The UAE authorities have announced some reforms in their visa policy, including changes in the online visa service. Now, travelers will be given the option to extend a 90-day visitor visa for additional 30 days.
The new rules also state that it is possible to make an online extension of single-entry and multiple-entry visit visas for friends and relatives. It concerns tourist visas issued for 30,60, or 90 days, including the UAE eVisa.
In total, the UAE confirmed 15 updates to its online smart services system aimed at improving the services offered to both foreigners and nationals.
According to the ICA's Director General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, the development of smart services is a sign of a dynamic process carried out by the authorities, signifying that the governments are aware of the customers' needs.
UAE Visas for Family Groups Now Available Online
According to the latest amendments to the UAE visa policy, family groups visiting the Emirates for tourism or medical purposes can obtain a visa online.
The visas are issued either for one or multiple entries and allow a stay of 60 or 180 days in the country.
Other changes include the option to:
- extend the pre-entry visas;
- print the visa and residence details in the account of the visa holder;
- cancel and modify visa information for GCC citizens registered in the system with no Emirates ID.
The UAE also introduced a modified procedure for residence visa renewal. Now, foreigners holding a UAE residence visa cannot renew it until it has at least 6 months of validity left.
Regarding the changes for Emirates citizens, they will no longer need to provide fingerprint data when applying for a passport online. No fees will be charged for the service either.
UAE electronic visa - key information
The UAE offers four different types of electronic visas. Depending on the type of visa, one can stay in the UAE for 96 hours, 30 days, or 90 days.
The UAE eVisas cover the purposes of tourism and transit only. A holder of the UAE online visa can travel to the Emirates to reunite with their friends and relatives, explore the country's tourist attractions, spend holiday time, or stop there before reaching their final destination.
The visa is accepted at every emirate, including:
- Ajman
- Abu Dhabi
- Dubai
- Sharjah
- Umm Al Quwain
- Ras Al Khaimah
- Fujairah
Travelers must also know that a transit eVisa can only be used to transit through the airport in Dubai.
