What is a Visit Visa in the UAE?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates, each with its own unique attractions and business opportunities. This makes it a popular destination for tourists and business travellers alike. To accommodate and streamline their entry, the UAE provides a variety of visa options tailored to different purposes and durations, among which the visit visa serves as a key facilitator for these short-term travellers. In this article, we will delve into the details of the UAE visit visa, exploring its various types, application processes, and the specific requirements for each category.

UAE Visit Visa

A visit visa to the UAE is different from a tourist visa. It is primarily intended for those who are visiting the country for purposes other than tourism, such as business meetings, short-term educational courses, or to visit family. The visa is valid for either 30 days or 90 days, depending on the applicant's plans, and can be single-entry or multiple-entry.

The UAE visit visa serves several purposes, catering to a wide array of visitors' needs:

• For travelers who want to explore the UAE's landmarks, culture, and leisure activities.
• Allows individuals to visit family members who reside in the UAE.
• For professionals attending meetings, conferences, or exploring business opportunities.
• For individuals looking to explore or secure employment in the UAE.
• For those seeking medical consultations or treatment in the UAE's healthcare facilities.
• For attendees of short-term courses, workshops, or educational programs.
• For travelers passing through the UAE while en route to another destination.

Also read: UAE Golden Visa

Types of Visit Visas in the UAE

 The UAE offers several types of visit visas to accommodate the diverse needs of visitors. Each type is tailored to specific purposes:

• Jobseeker Visit Visa
• Investment Exploration Visa
• Medical Treatment Visa
• eVisa for GCC Residents

UAE Jobseeker Visit Visa

The UAE offers a jobseeker visit visa that enables foreigners to enter the country and search for employment without needing a host or sponsor. This visa is available for single-entry trips and can be issued for 60, 90, or 120 days. Below, you'll find the eligibility requirements and necessary steps to apply.

Eligibility Criteria for the Jobseeker Visit Visa

Applicants must meet one of the following criteria to be eligible for a jobseeker visit visa:

• Professional Level: Applicants should be categorised within the first, second, or third skill levels according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) job classification.
•  Educational Qualification: Applicants must be recent graduates (within the last two years) from one of the top 500 universities globally, as recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education.

Additionally, all applicants must:

• Hold at least a bachelor's degree or its equivalent.
• Satisfy the financial guarantee requirements stipulated for the visa.

Required Documents for Application

To apply for a jobseeker visit visa, the following documents are necessary:

• Coloured Photograph: A recent passport-sized coloured photo.
• Passport Copy: A valid copy of the applicant's passport.
• Qualification Certificate: An attested copy of the degree certificate verifying your educational qualifications.

UAE Visit Visa to Explore Investment Opportunities

The UAE offers a visit visa specifically designed for individuals interested in exploring investment opportunities within the country without needing a sponsor or host. This visa facilitates easy access for potential investors and entrepreneurs to assess business prospects. Applicants can opt for a single-entry visa, valid for 60, 90, or 120 days.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this investment-focused visit visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Applicants must demonstrate financial stability.
• Must be an established professional in the relevant business sector in their home country.
• A prescribed financial guarantee must be met to ensure the applicant's commitment and stability.

Required Documents

Applicants must provide the following documents as part of the visa application process:

•  Coloured Photograph: A recent passport-sized coloured photo.
•  Passport Copy: A valid copy of the applicant's passport.
•  Qualification Certificate: An attested copy of any relevant qualification certificates.

UAE eVisa for GCC Residents

GCC residents and their companions looking to visit the UAE need to apply for an eVisa online before arrival. This visa is initially valid for 30 days and can be conveniently extended for an additional 30 days once the initial period expires.

 eVisa Application Process

 To apply for an eVisa, GCC residents and their companions must:

• Apply Online: Complete the eVisa application through the UAE's official visa portal.
• Prior to Arrival: Ensure that the visa is obtained before travelling to the UAE.

Notes and Conditions

• Visa Delivery: The eVisa will be sent to your registered email address once your application is approved.
• Travel Requirements: Applications for GCC expatriate residents and companions travelling with GCC citizens will not be approved if the sponsor is not travelling along with them.

Validity

• GCC Residents: The entry permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issue and allows a stay of 30 days from the date of entry. This visa can be extended once for another 30 days.
• Companions of GCC Citizens: The entry permit is valid for 60 days from the date of issue and allows a stay of 60 days from the date of entry. This visa can also be extended once for another 60 days.

Entry Restrictions

• If the GCC residence visa is expired or cancelled upon arrival, entry will not be granted. 
• If the profession of the GCC resident has changed after the issuance of the entry permit, the holder will not be granted entry. 

Residency and Passport Validity

• The GCC residency must be valid for at least 3 months from the arrival date.
• The passport of GCC residents must also be valid for at least 3 months from the arrival date. 

UAE Entry Permits for Medical Treatment and Patient Companions

The UAE provides specific entry permits for foreign patients seeking medical treatment and their companions, facilitated by the sponsorship of medical establishments within the country. These permits are designed to ensure that patients receive the care they need with the support of their loved ones.

Patient Entry Permit

Foreign patients can enter the UAE for medical treatment under the sponsorship of government and private hospitals or other medical establishments. The responsible medical establishment handles the processing of entry permits based on the patient's request.

In Dubai:

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai issues entry permits for medical treatment sponsored by medical establishments, both public and private. Patients can choose between single entry and multiple entry permits.

Required Documents for Patient Entry Permit:

• Copy of the patient's passport.
• A letter from the registered hospital detailing the reasons for the visit.
• Proof of the patient's health insurance.
• Financial security documentation.

Conditions:

• The sponsoring hospital must be licensed and registered in the UAE.
• In Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) manages treatment and entry permit services through the eChannels platform, covering Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.

Patient Companion Entry Permit

Companions of patients can also receive entry permits to stay with the patient during their treatment in the UAE. These permits can be extended once, provided a certified medical report confirms the necessity of the companion's presence.

In Dubai:

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs issues entry permits for patient companions, available as single or multiple entry. Extensions are granted with appropriate medical justification.

Required Documents for Companion Entry Permit:

• Copy of the companion's passport.
• Proof of the companion's health insurance.
• Financial security documentation.

Conditions:

• The entry permit is issued if the sponsor is a hospital licensed in the UAE.
• The companion must enter with the patient under a similar type of permit.

In Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates:

The ICA offers various entry permit services for patient companions through the eChannels platform, including single and multiple entry options for individuals and family groups.

How to apply for a Visit Visa?

Getting a visit visa for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) involves a straightforward application process that can typically be completed online. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to apply for a UAE visit visa:

Step 1: Determine the Type of Visa Required

First, determine the type of visit visa you need based on the purpose of your visit (e.g., tourism, business, visiting family, etc.). The duration of the visa can vary, commonly available as 30-day or 90-day options, with single or multiple entries.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the necessary documentation for your visa application, which may include:

• A valid passport (with at least six months validity from the date of entry).
•  Passport-sized photographs.
• Proof of your travel itinerary (including confirmed return ticket).
•  Proof of accommodation in the UAE.
•  Proof of financial means to support the stay in the UAE.
• Travel insurance that covers COVID-19.

Step 3: Online Application

Most UAE visit visas can be applied for online through various portals:

• Official UAE Government Portal: Direct application through the UAE's official immigration website.
• Airlines: Some airlines, such as Emirates, Etihad, Fly Dubai, and Air Arabia, offer visa services for their passengers.
• Travel Agencies: Reputable travel agents can also process the visa on your behalf.
• Hotel Bookings: Some hotels also facilitate visas if you book a stay with them.

Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form

Complete the application form accurately. This will include personal information, details about your trip, and possibly a brief questionnaire about your health and past travel history.

Step 5: Submit and Pay the Visa Fee

Submit the application form along with the required documents. You will also need to pay a visa fee, which varies depending on the type of visa and the urgency of the application. Fees can usually be paid online at the time of application.

Step 6: Track Your Application

Once submitted, you can track the status of your visa application online through the website where you applied. Processing times can vary but typically take a few days.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa

If approved, you will receive your visa electronically via the email address provided in your application. Print out the visa to present at the airport and upon arrival in the UAE.

While you can obtain a UAE visit visa through various channels, Filings.ae offers a more streamlined and personalized approach. Whether you're applying for a tourist, business, or visit visa, our team is dedicated to providing personalised support to make the process as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

For more details on the Dubai Visit Visa Extension, Refer to our article.

Conclusion

Understanding the various UAE visa options can be challenging, but knowing the specific requirements for each type simplifies the process. Whether you are exploring job opportunities, seeking medical treatment, or planning a family visit, the UAE has tailored visa options to suit your needs.

For those looking to streamline their visa application process further, Filings.ae provides expert guidance and personalised service to ensure a smooth and successful application.

Get started!