There’s good news for Indian travellers travelling to European countries. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICA) has announced an expansion of the visa exemption for Indian nationals. Now, those holding residency in the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States, will also be exempt if they have tourist visas from these regions. They can stay longer in the UAE after paying the required fees, as long as their visa and passport are valid for at least six months.
A tourist visa is for those who are not eligible for visa on arrival or a visa-free entry to the UAE. The multiple entry 5-year tourist visa enables tourists to enter the UAE multiple times on self-sponsorship and remain in the country for 90 days on each visit, and can be extended for further 90 days.
Indian citizens and their families with ordinary passports can now obtain a visa on arrival at all entry points in the UAE. This is available to those who have:
- A valid visa, residence permit, or green card from the United States.
- A valid visa or residence permit from European Union countries or the United Kingdom.
To qualify, the passport must be valid for at least six months.
Indian travelers can choose between two visa options upon arrival:
- A 14-day visa that can be extended for an additional 14 days.
- A 60-day visa that cannot be extended.
Both options require the payment of the applicable fees according to UAE regulations.
What is the fee?
As mentioned above, these Indian nationals and their family members with ordinary passports who have a visa, residence permit, or green card from the US, EU countries, or the UK, the fee for a 14-day entry visa is AED 100. To extend this visa for an additional 14 days, the cost is AED 250. Additionally, the fee for a 60-day visa is also AED 250.