The UAE government has recently announced multiple changes to UAE visas, impacting both residents and tourists.
With several types of UAE visas now available – for different instances – it can be tricky to understand which visa you need.
For those visiting Abu Dhabi and the rest of the United Arab Emirates, there is good news as for many, the validity of the entry-on-arrival visa has increased from 30 to 60 days.
Yep, that’s two whole months in which to enjoy the capital. Extended holiday, anyone?
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Wondering more about the new UAE visa options for non-residents? Time Out’s guide breaks down everything you need to know.
What were the tourist visa terms before?
Previously, many nationalities received a 30-day visa on arrival then after 30 days spent in the UAE, you would have a nine-day grace period before having to pay to renew your visa.
If you failed to renew your visa you could face fines of Dhs100 per day for every day of overstay.
What are the changes to the UAE tourist visa?
Now the length of time tourists, from certain countries, can stay with a visa upon arrival has increased. In addition, a new UAE five-year multi-entry tourist visa has been introduced. The scheme offers more options and flexibility for those coming to the UAE.
How long will I be able to stay in the UAE with an entry-on-arrival visa?
Before the changes came into place anyone wanting to come on holiday to the UAE could stay for up to 30 days.
This has now doubled to 60-days. Great news for those wanting longer holidays or to settle in when moving over before their residency visa is approved.
Who do the new visa-on-arrival rules apply to?
We are awaiting the list of nationalities, according to passport, that the rules are applicable to, but so far it seems that if you were eligible for visa on arrival before, you should get the new benefits.
What if I want to stay in the UAE for longer than two months?
The new five-year multi-entry tourist visa is a new addition to the UAE visa line-up. It allows visitors to stay for up to 90 continuous days without a sponsor. 90 days not enough? The visa may be extended, provided that the entire period to stay does not exceed 180 days in one year.
Do I need to meet certain criteria to get a five-year multi-entry tourist visa?
Yes, to get the visa you must show proof of having a bank balance of US$4,000 during the last six months prior to submitting the application.
What if I want to visit friends and family in the UAE?
The rules are staying the same. A visitor can apply for an entry permit if they are a relative or friend of a UAE citizen or resident. There is no need for a sponsor or host.
I have been offered a temporary working contract in the UAE, do I need a visa?
There is now a new type of entry permit for those who have a temporary work assignment in the UAE. You will need to be sponsored by the employer as well as provide a temporary work contract or a letter from the employer. The documents will need to explain the purpose of the visit and proof of health fitness.
I want to find a job in the UAE, do I need a visa?
The brand-new job exploration visa has been introduced for those wanting to look for work in the UAE and does not require a sponsor or host.
Not everyone is eligible; you must be a recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent alongside having attended on of the best 500 universities in the world.
Another condition is that you must be classified in the first, second or third skill level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
I have the opportunity to intern/study in the UAE? Can I?
A new entry permit will be available for those interning or studying in the UAE. If you are taking part in an internship then the entity hosting you must write a letter clarifying the details.
Students need the same but with the documents from the institution they will be learning at.
How do I apply for the new visas?
Details on how to obtain this visas are yet to be given. Stay tuned to Time Out for when we find out more.
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