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Expats Can Now Apply UAE eVisa
Introduction: UAE eVisa for GCC Residents
In a significant update, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a new visa option for expatriate residents in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. As of October 14, the UAE Digital Government (DGOV) announced that GCC expatriate residents and their companions can now apply for a 30-day UAE eVisa for GCC residents. This eVisa can be extended once, offering visitors an additional 30 days to explore the UAE.
This move has streamlined the visa process for GCC residents, making travel to the UAE more convenient and accessible.
Conditions for Obtaining the UAE eVisa
There are specific criteria that expatriate residents of GCC countries must meet to qualify for the UAE eVisa for GCC residents. According to the UAE Digital Government, the primary conditions include the following:
- The applicant’s GCC residency must be valid for at least one year from the date of their arrival in the UAE.
- Applicants must apply for the eVisa through either the General Directorate of Residency for Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) via their smart platforms.
- The eVisa is valid for 30 days, with the option to extend it for another 30 days.
These guidelines aim to ensure that expat residents from GCC countries have a seamless entry into the UAE, provided they meet the necessary residency and documentation requirements.
Key Conditions for GCC Expats and Companions
The UAE eVisa for GCC residents comes with several important conditions to ensure compliance with UAE entry regulations. Here are some of the essential points to note:
- Once the eVisa application is approved, the visa will be sent directly to the applicant’s registered email address.
- The application will not be approved for GCC expatriate residents and companions traveling with GCC citizens unless their sponsor accompanies them during the visit.
- The entry permit for companions traveling with GCC citizens is valid for 60 days and can be extended for an additional 60 days.
- Upon arrival in the UAE, if the GCC residence visa is found to be expired or canceled, the traveler will not be granted entry.
- If the profession of the GCC resident changes after the issuance of the entry permit, the traveler will also be denied entry.
- GCC residency must be valid for at least one year from the date of arrival in the UAE.
- Passports of GCC residents must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in the UAE.
How to Apply for the UAE eVisa
Applying for the UAE eVisa for GCC residents is a straightforward process, primarily handled online. Applicants can complete their visa applications through the ICP smart service or the GDRFA’s website. The steps for applying on the ICP platform are as follows:
- Create a UAE Pass Account: To access the eVisa application via the ICP platform, a UAE Pass account is required. This account is necessary for all online services related to visa applications.
- Login to the ICP Platform: Use your UAE Pass credentials to log in, or enter your email and password.
- Select the Service for GCC Residents: Search for the service titled “Issue an entry permit for residents of the GCC countries” and click on “Start Service.”
- Complete the Application: Fill out the required information and upload the necessary documents.
- Receive a Transaction Number: Once the application is submitted, you will receive a transaction number to track your visa application.
Required Documents for the UAE eVisa
When applying for the UAE eVisa for GCC residents, applicants must provide specific documents to complete their application successfully. These include:
- A clear copy of the applicant’s passport.
- A GCC residence visa valid for at least three months.
- A recent passport-sized colored photo of the applicant.
Ensuring that these documents are accurate and up-to-date will help avoid any delays in the visa approval process.
Visa Extension and Additional Notes
The UAE eVisa for GCC residents offers flexibility for visitors who wish to extend their stay. After the initial 30 days, the visa can be extended for another 30 days, providing a total of 60 days in the UAE. However, there are some additional notes to keep in mind:
- For companions traveling with GCC citizens, the entry permit is valid for 60 days and can also be extended for another 60 days.
- If the residency visa or profession status of the GCC resident changes during or after the visa issuance process, entry into the UAE may be denied.
These conditions highlight the importance of maintaining valid documents and ensuring that any changes to residency or employment are updated before travel.
Conclusion
The UAE eVisa for GCC residents provides an accessible and flexible option for expatriates in Gulf countries wishing to visit the UAE. With an easy online application process and a clear set of conditions, GCC residents can now enjoy the opportunity to explore the UAE for up to 60 days. Ensuring that all residency and passport documents are valid before applying will help travelers avoid any issues upon arrival.
By simplifying the visa process, the UAE continues to encourage regional tourism and strengthen its ties with neighboring Gulf countries.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general purposes only. Visa regulations and requirements may change over time, and applicants should verify the latest details on official UAE government platforms before proceeding.
