With 16 million international visitors annually, UAE is one of the most visited countries in the world. People usually visit the country as tourists, job seekers, businessmen, etc. The authorities must keep UAE visa rules and regulations updated to meet the demands.
The authorities made several changes to the visit visa rules in 2025. If you are looking to visit the United Arab Emirates, this guide will walk you through the process of getting your visit visa, key changes, and considerations you need to know before applying!
What is a Visit Visa in UAE?
UAE visit visa is the main document you need to acquire if you want to visit the country for a short span of time. It will allow you to legally enter the country and spend a certain amount of time while enjoying all the facilities and services. There are several requirements you need to meet to get your visit visa.
UAE being one of the most visited countries, gives out millions of visit visas every year to tourists, workers, and investors from around the world. However, it is important to understand the process of acquiring a visit visa and understand the key changes in 2025 to ensure acceptance of your application.
Types of UAE Visit Visas (2025)
| Types of Visa | Duration | Entries | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Day Visit-Visa (Single-Entry) | 30 Days | Single Entry | Ideal for short stays for tourism, business, or visiting family/friends. |
| 60-Day Visit-Visa (Single-Entry) | 60 Days | Single Entry | Allows a longer stay with one-time entry. |
| 30-Day Visit-Visa (Multiple-Entry) | 30 Days | Multiple Entries | Allows frequent entry and exit within 30 days. |
| 60-Day Visit-Visa (Multiple-Entry) | 60 Days | Multiple Entries | Ideal for those needing multiple entries over 60 days. |
| 5-Year Multiple-Entry Visit-Visa | 5 Years (90 days per visit) | Multiple Entries | Allows extended travel with multiple stays of up to 90 days per visit. |
New Visit Visa Rules in UAE (Key Changes 2025)
You have to understand the key changes that are shaping the new rules for UAE’s visit visa to navigate through the key challenges and considerations. Here’s all that you need to know about the updating in rules as of 2025:
1. Visit Visa Updates – Easier & Longer Stays
Five-Year Multiple-Entry Visa:
- Allows 30, 60, or 90 days per visit.
- No need to exit frequently.
- Ideal for frequent travelers, business visitors, and families.
Faster Application Process:
- Most steps are online.
- Less paperwork and quicker approvals.
2. Job Seeker Visa – More Time to Find a Job
- Valid for up to 120 days (previously shorter).
- Available for:
- Recent graduates from top universities worldwide.
- Skilled professionals in industries like tech, healthcare, and finance.
- No sponsor required, making it easier to explore job opportunities.
3. Residency Visas – More Stability & Benefits
Golden Visa (10-Year Residency)
- Now includes educators, researchers, athletes, and humanitarian leaders.
- Offers long-term stability and flexible sponsorship options.
Green Visa (For Freelancers & Skilled Professionals)
- Self-sponsored (no employer required).
- Available for freelancers, business owners, and highly skilled professionals.
- Must meet income requirements.
Family Visa – Easier Sponsorship
- No professional restrictions for sponsors.
- Lower salary requirements for family sponsorship.
- Longer validity, reducing the need for frequent renewals.
4. New Special Visas – Unique Opportunities
GCC Residents E-Visa
- Faster approval and longer validity for residents of Gulf countries.
Blue Residence Visa (10-Year Environmental Visa)
- Awarded to environmental leaders, researchers, and activists.
- Applicants can self-nominate or be recommended by authorities.
Dubai Gaming Visa (5-10 Years for Gaming Professionals)
- For gaming industry professionals aged 25+.
- Offers tax-free income, career growth, and access to global gaming hubs.
5. Overstay Penalties – Stricter Fines
Important: The 10-day grace period has been removed.
- Overstaying fines:
- AED 50 per day after visa expiry.
- Additional charges may apply.
- Solution: Apply for an extension before your visa expires to avoid penalties.
6. UAE Visit Visa Extension
The UAE has updated its visit visa extension rules to offer more flexibility for travelers. As of 2025, visitors can extend their 30-day or 60-day visas for up to 30 additional days at a time. Furthermore, you cannot stay more than 120 days in total.
Requirements for Extension:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond the initial visa expiry).
- Copy of the original visit-visa.
- Return flight ticket copy.
- Passport-sized photograph.
- Proof of sufficient funds for the extended stay.
Important Notes:
- Extensions must be requested before the visa expires to avoid fines.
- Processing time varies, but most extensions are approved within a few days.
How to Get a Visit UAE Visa?
UAE has established a streamlined process for visitors to get their visas. Here are the steps you can follow to successfully get yours:
Step 1: Choose Your Visit Visa Type
- 30-Day or 60-Day Single-Entry Visa: For short trips, tourism, or business visits.
- 30-Day or 60-Day Multiple-Entry Visa: For travelers needing multiple entries during the visa period.
- 5-Year Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa: This type allows multiple entries. 90-day stays per visit (Requires proof of funds).
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To apply, you typically need:
- Valid passport that has at least 6 months validity.
- Passport-sized photos.
- A completed visa application form.
- A return flight ticket (proof of departure).
- Hotel booking or address of stay in the UAE.
- Proof of sufficient funds (for long-term visas).
- Health insurance (if required).
If you’re applying for the 5-year multiple-entry visa, you will be required to provide:
✔ Your Bank statement that shows at least a $4,000 balance for the last 6 months.
✔ Travel insurance covering the UAE.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You can apply through:
- The UAE government portal (ICP or GDRFA website).
- Authorized travel agencies and airlines (Emirates, Etihad, FlyDubai).
- Hotels and tour operators (if booking through them).
Tip: Airlines often provide visa services for passengers who book flights with them.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
- The required Fees may vary depending on your visa type and duration.
- You can make the payments online or at authorized visa service centers.
- The processing time usually is 3-5 business days.
Step 5: Visa Approval
Once your application is approved, your e-visa will be emailed to you.
Tips for a Streamlined Process
✔ Apply early to avoid last-minute delays.
✔ Ensure your documents are accurate and meet UAE requirements.
✔ Check your visa status online using the reference number provided after submission.
✔ Keep a printed and digital copy of your visa for easy access.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the new visa to enter the UAE?
The new visa rules allow tourists, business travelers, and visitors to apply for short- or long-term entry permits. Eligibility depends on nationality, purpose of travel, and meeting visa requirements set by UAE authorities.
2. Can I get a visa on arrival when I travel to the UAE?
Yes, some nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival when they enter the UAE. Others must apply for a visit-visa in advance based on their country of residence.
3. How do I obtain a visit-visa?
To obtain a visit visa, apply through UAE’s immigration portals, airlines, or authorized travel agencies. The process includes submitting an application, providing documents, and paying the required fee.
4. What are the changes in visa rules in the UAE?
The visa rules 2025 include longer validity, easier renewal, and an option to extend stays without exiting the country. Multi-entry visas also allow greater flexibility for frequent travelers.
5. How can I extend my Dubai visit-visa?
The Dubai visit visa extension now allows travelers to renew their visa while staying within the UAE for up to 60 additional days per extension.
6. What is the validity of a residence permit?
A UAE residence visa can be valid for two, five, or ten years, depending on the category, such as an investor visa, Golden Visa, or work permit.
7. What are the Dubai visit-visa new rules for 2025?
The Dubai visit visa new rules introduce multiple-entry options, online application improvements, and the reinstatement of in-country visa renewals.
8. Can I enter and exit the UAE multiple times with the same visa?
Yes, a visit visa in 2025 offers single-entry and multi-entry options. The UAE multiple times entry permit is ideal for business travelers and frequent visitors.
9. How does the visa process work for business travelers?
Individuals planning to do business in the UAE can apply for a residence visa or a short-term business entry permit. The new UAE visa rules make applications more streamlined for you to visit the UAE.
10. What happens if I overstay my visa?
If you need a visa extension but fail to renew in time, overstaying will result in daily fines. Always check visit visa regulations and apply for an extension before your visa expires.
