United Arab Emirates
The Dubai visa application process depends on the type of stay desired and the applicant’s country of origin. Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), offers different types of visas depending on the duration and purpose of stay. Find below a detailed and professional overview of the steps to follow to apply for a Dubai visa, with useful information to guide you through the process.
1. Determine the type of visa required
The choice of visa depends on the purpose of your stay in Dubai. Find below the main types of visas available:
– Tourist visa (short term): Valid for stays of 30 days, it can be extended for an additional 30 days.
– Long-term tourist visa: Valid for 90 days, with an extension option.
– Transit visa: Valid for a period of 48 to 96 hours for travelers on a stopover.
– Work visa: Necessary if you have a job offer in the UAE.
– Business/investment visa: For investors or entrepreneurs wishing to make professional stays.
– Residence visa (Golden Visa): For highly qualified individuals, investors or entrepreneurs wishing to reside in Dubai permanently.
Link for more information on visa types: Official UAE Government Portal
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/types-of-visa
2. Check if you need a visa
Some nationalities are granted a visa exemption or can obtain a visa on arrival for a limited period. Citizens of the EU, UK, US, Canada and several other countries can obtain a visa on arrival for a stay of 30 to 90 days, depending on bilateral agreements.
Link to check if you need a visa: Visa on arrival for Dubai
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/visa-exemptions-and-entry-permits
3. Submit a tourist visa application online
If you need a tourist visa, you can submit your application online through different channels:
– Airlines: Airlines like Emirates or Etihad Airways facilitate the visa process for their passengers.
– Hotels: Many hotels in Dubai offer visa application services for their guests.
– Authorized travel agencies: Some accredited travel agencies can also submit your visa application.
Link to submit an application through Emirates: Visa for Dubai with Emirates
https://www.emirates.com/fr/english/before-you-fly/visa-passport-information/uae-visas/
Link to submit an application through Etihad Airways: Visa for Dubai with Etihad
4. Documents required for visa application
The documents you will need to provide depend on the type of visa you are applying for, but below are the items typically required for a tourist visa:
– Valid passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your expected arrival date.
– Recent passport photo: Passport-size color photo.
– Completed visa application form.
– Round-trip airfare: Confirmation of booking.
– Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation or invitation letter if you are staying with a resident.
– Travel insurance: May be required, especially due to the global health situation.
– Bank statements or other proof of financial means (in some cases).
Link to view the list of required documents: Tourist Visa Application Portal
https://www.visitdubai.com/en/plan-your-trip/visa-information
5. Filing of the application and payment of fees
Once your visa application is completed, it must be submitted through the chosen platform (airline, hotel or travel agency) or directly through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for residence visas.
Visa fees depend on the type of visa. As a guide:
– 30-day tourist visa: Around USD 90 to 100.
– 90-day tourist visa: Around USD 190 to 250.
– Transit visa: Between USD 10 and 30.
Link to make payment and submit application: General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
6. Processing of the request
The processing time for a Dubai tourist visa is usually 2-5 business days. Work or residence visas may take longer, depending on the complexity of the application.
Transit visas, on the other hand, are often processed faster, within 1-2 days.
7. Monitoring the visa application
After submitting your application, you can track its status online through the visa application portals (ICA or GDRFA) or through the airline or travel agency platform.
Link to track application status: Track Visa Status with GDRFA
https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Public_Th/StatusInquiry_New.aspx
8. Receiving the visa
Once approved, your visa will be sent by email in electronic format. You must print this document and present it upon arrival at Dubai airport. Some types of visas, such as visa on arrival, will be stamped directly at the airport.
9. Visa extension (if applicable)
If you wish to extend your stay in Dubai, you can apply for an extension of your visa for an additional 30 days before the expiry of your current visa. Extension applications can be made online through GDRFA or through travel agents.
Visa Extension Application Link: Visa Extension with GDRFA
10. Work and residence visa
If you intend to work or reside in Dubai long-term, you will need to obtain a work visa or a residence visa. These visas usually require a sponsor, such as an employer or family member, to submit the application on your behalf. Employers are responsible for obtaining work visas for their employees.
Link for more information on work visas: UAE Work Visa
Additional resources:
Official UAE Government Portal : u.ae - Visa Information
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) : GDRFA Dubai
Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA ) : ICA UAE
Visa application via Emirates : Emirates Visa Application
By following our guide or letting us assist you, you will increase your chances of submitting a successful Dubai visa application. Remember to check the specific requirements according to your nationality and respect the deadlines to avoid any delays in processing your visa.