Dubai, UAE – Residents and citizens of the UAE can now invite friends and relatives to visit for up to 90 days through the streamlined Friend or Relative Visa service offered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security.
The service, accessible via the authority’s website and mobile app, provides flexible visa options for single or multiple trips, making it easier to reunite with loved ones. The visa can be issued for durations of 30, 60, or 90 days, with the added convenience of extensions during the stay.
How the Visa Works
Applicants can apply online using their digital identity. The process involves selecting the desired visa type and duration and verifying personal details before submitting the application. The visa remains valid for entry for up to 60 days after issuance.
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Valid Passport: Passport must be valid for at least six months.
- Travel Ticket and Health Insurance: Applicants need proof of a return ticket and valid health insurance.
- Relationship Proof: The visa is limited to friends or relatives of UAE citizens or foreign residents of the first or second degree.
- Employment Requirements: Foreign residents inviting friends or relatives must hold a first or second-level job as classified by the authority.
Maj-Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, director-general of the authority, emphasized that the initiative is part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to enhance quality of life and facilitate family reunification.
“This visa service reflects our commitment to strengthening community ties and offering visitors a seamless experience in enjoying the benefits of living and investing in the UAE,” Al Khaili said.
Important Guidelines and Penalties
Visitors and their hosts must adhere to the visa’s specified duration. Al Khaili warned that administrative penalties would be imposed for overstaying or failing to exit the country before the visa expires.
This initiative underscores the UAE’s dedication to creating a welcoming environment for families and friends while supporting the country’s broader goals of economic and cultural development.
