New Visa Rules in UAE: 12 Key Changes & Implications

The New Visa Rules in UAE for 2024 bring significant changes to enhance travel and business opportunities. With easier entry processes, longer stay durations, and flexible options like the 10-year Golden Visa, these updates cater to many visitors, including tourists, job seekers, and business travellers. Under the new visa rules in UAE, your UAE visa validity can be extended for an additional 30 days, allowing you to stay for a maximum of 120 days. But, it is only applicable for twice a year. However, the UAE offers a variety of visa options, including the Job Exploration Visa, Short-term single-entry, Short-term multiple-entry, Long-term single-entry, Long-term multiple-entry, and the 5-year multiple-entry visa. These changes simplify travel and offer greater flexibility, making the UAE more accessible for growth and success. This article gives a detailed overview of the UAE visa and the compilations of 12 New Visa Rules in UAE. 

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What is UAE Visa?

A UAE visa is an official document issued by the United Arab Emirates that permits foreign nationals to enter, reside, or work in the country for a specified period. The UAE offers various visa types to accommodate different purposes, including tourism, business, employment, and family visits. Common visa categories include tourist visas, residency visas, work permits, and the Golden Visa, which grants long-term residency to investors and skilled professionals. The application process typically involves submitting necessary documentation, such as a passport, photographs, and sometimes sponsorship from a UAE resident or company. The visa type and duration of stay depend on the applicant's purpose of travel and the specific regulations in place.

12 Important New Visa Rules in UAE

Here are the 12 key changes, implications, and benefits introduced under the New Visa rules in UAE, 

1. Introduction of Multiple Entry Visas for Enhanced Flexibility

The UAE has introduced a new five-year multiple-entry tourist visa, allowing tourists and business travellers to stay for up to 90 days, with an option to extend for another 90 days. This visa does not require a sponsor, making it easier for visitors to explore or conduct business. Applicants must have a minimum balance of $4,000 (AED 14,700) or equivalent in foreign currency over the last six months before applying.

2. Business Visa without Sponsor Requirement for Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs, investors, and business people can now apply for a business visa without needing a sponsor or host, providing greater flexibility for establishing businesses in the UAE.

3. Visit Visa for Friends and Family with No Sponsorship Needed

Foreigners can apply for a visit visa to meet family or friends who are UAE residents or citizens, without sponsorship. The visa can be extended for 30 or 60 days, and it is possible to extend for an additional 30 days while remaining in the country.

4. Temporary Work Visa for Short-Term Assignments

Designed for individuals with short-term assignments such as project work or probationary employment, the temporary work visa requires proof of employment, including a temporary work contract, employment letter, and fitness certificate.

5. Study/Training Visa for Academic Pursuits and Internships

Students and individuals seeking to participate in academic courses, specialized training, or internships can now apply for this visa. Sponsorship from public or private educational institutions is required, along with a letter of intent outlining the program details.

6. Enhanced Family Visa Sponsorship for Children

Under the new visa rules in UAE, male children can be sponsored by their parents until age 25, while female children can be sponsored indefinitely. Special needs children require a special permit for family residency sponsorship.

7. Job Visa to Attract Global Talent Without Sponsorship

This visa simplifies the process for job seekers by eliminating the need for sponsorship. Eligibility includes bachelor's degree holders, recent graduates from the top 500 universities worldwide, and individuals classified under skill levels 1 and 2 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

8. Green Visa for Skilled Workers and Freelancers Without Employer Sponsorship

The new Green Visa offers five-year residency to skilled workers, freelancers, and self-employed individuals without employer sponsorship. Applicants must meet criteria set by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, including having a minimum salary and a bachelor's degree.

9. Golden Visa for Long-Term Residency to Talented Professionals

This prestigious 10-year Golden visa is available to a range of professionals, including entrepreneurs, investors, scientists, researchers, skilled workers, and individuals with exceptional talent. 

Specific categories include:

• Entrepreneurs: Startups and SMEs registered in the UAE with an annual revenue of at least AED 1 million can qualify.
• Real Estate Investors: A minimum investment of AED 2 million in real estate qualifies investors for the Golden Visa. Mortgage and off-plan properties can also be included if the total investment reaches AED 2 million.
• Scientists & Researchers: Individuals must meet specific requirements, including a recommendation from the Emirates Science Council and a degree in life sciences, natural sciences, technology, or engineering.
• Skilled Workers: Applicants must have a bachelor's degree, a valid employment contract, and a monthly salary that meets set criteria. Their occupation must fall under skill levels 1 or 2 according to Ministry regulations.
• Exceptional Talent: Innovators, athletes, artists, and professionals in fields like medicine and law can qualify for the Golden Visa with a recommendation from relevant government entities.

Also read: Green Visa vs Golden Visa

10. Simplified Visa Application Process for Greater Efficiency

The UAE has made the visa application process more convenient by introducing online applications and a unified platform for managing visas and Emirates IDs, making the process faster and more efficient.

11. Dirham Rule for Visitors

Visitors to Dubai must carry a minimum amount of Dirhams 3,000 (about Rs 68,000) in cash or on a credit card, along with a return ticket and proof of accommodation (hotel booking or stay with friends/family).

12. Updated Visa-on-Arrival Policy for Indian Nationals

Indian nationals holding valid US visit visas, US green cards, UK resident permits, or EU resident permits can obtain a visa on arrival for 14 days. This rule has been expanded to include Indian nationals holding valid tourist visas for the USA, UK, or European Union.

These new visa rules in UAE provide significant benefits for investors and entrepreneurs, including long-term residency options without sponsorship, the ability to sponsor family members, and enhanced access to a thriving business environment. These changes encourage investment and support the growth of innovative startups in the UAE.

How to Obtain a Visa in UAE?

In UAE, there are various types of visas, including residence, visit, and golden visa. Below, we have given the general procedure for obtaining a visa in UAE. The process might vary depending on the visa type, 

• Step 1 - Determine the Appropriate Visa: Research the visa type that aligns with your purpose of visiting or staying in the UAE.
• Step 2 - Gather Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documents, which may include:
• Passport with validity of at least six months
• Passport-sized photographs
• Completed visa application form
• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter)
• Financial evidence (bank statements, salary certificates, etc.)
• Medical insurance (for certain visa types)
• Step 3 - Submit Application: You can typically submit your visa application online through the UAE government's official visa portal or at the nearest UAE embassy or consulate in your country.
• Step 4 - Pay Visa Fees: Pay the applicable visa fees, which may vary depending on the visa type and your nationality.
• Step 5 - Await Approval: The processing time for visa applications can vary. Once your application is reviewed, you'll receive a decision regarding whether your visa has been approved.
• Step 6 - Collect Visa: If your visa is approved, you can collect it from the embassy or consulate or have it delivered.

Learn more: A Comprehensive Guide to Freezone Visa in UAE 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the New Visa Rules in the UAE for 2024 represent a transformative shift aimed at simplifying the travel and business landscape for various visitors. With the introduction of flexible visa options, including the Golden Visa and multiple-entry permits, these rules not only enhance accessibility but also cater to the diverse needs of tourists, job seekers, and entrepreneurs. The streamlined application processes and expanded eligibility criteria further facilitate easier entry into the UAE, fostering a welcoming environment for foreign nationals. As these changes come into effect, they are poised to boost investment opportunities and promote long-term growth, solidifying the UAE's position as a global hub for tourism and business.

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