UAE visa requirements: Everything you need to know

Traveling to the UAE is exciting, but ensuring your visa documentation is in order is the first and most crucial step.

Below, we cover everything you need to know about the UAE visa requirements, from who needs one to how to apply and the documents you must prepare.

Difficulty rating: Easy

Applying for a UAE visa is straightforward for most travelers. With our step-by-step process and expert guidance, you can expect a smooth application experience.

95% of UAE visa applications through us are approved on the first attempt, proving we offer a highly successful and seamless process.

Who needs a UAE visa?

Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter the UAE. Whether traveling for tourism, business, or visiting family, you’ll likely need a UAE Tourist Visa unless you're from a visa-exempt country.

A short-term tourist visa is required for U.S. citizens and most European nationals.

Nationals from countries like Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are exempt from this requirement.

To see if your nationality requires a visa, you can quickly fill in your nationality and destination on our home page.

We're going to focus on the UAE Tourist Visa in this blog.

What are the UAE visa requirements?

To successfully apply for a UAE visa, you will need to prepare the following documents:

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity from your arrival date.

• A passport-sized photo that meets UAE visa requirements.

• A birth certificate if the traveler is a minor.

Depending on your nationality, you may need to provide additional documents like:

• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation or an invitation letter if you are staying with family or friends.

• A residence permit

• A non-refundable round-trip ticket

• A national ID card

Tip: Double-check the validity of your passport before applying to avoid any delays.

How to apply for a UAE visa

Applying for your UAE visa is a straightforward process that can be completed online. Most applications take less than 15 minutes to complete. Here’s how it works:

Start your application: Fill out our online form with your details and travel plans.

Upload documents: Submit scanned copies of your passport and any required documents.

Pay the fee: Use your preferred method to pay the visa fee securely.

Receive your visa: In most cases, your visa will arrive within 24-72 hours via email.

UAE visa processing times and fees

The time it takes to process your UAE visa depends on the type of visa you need. On average, 90% of our clients receive their visa within 48 hours. For urgent travelers, rush options are available in as little as 24 hours.

"I applied for my UAE visa with iVisa, and the process was incredibly smooth. I received my visa within 24 hours and had no issues entering the country." - Sarah, U.K.

Can you extend your UAE visa?

Yes, you can extend your UAE visa while in the country. You can apply for a 30-day extension twice, allowing you to stay for an additional 60 days.

Final tips for UAE travelers

To avoid any issues, we recommend applying for your UAE visa at least one week before your departure. It’s also important to stay updated on visa regulations, as they can change frequently. We monitor all updates to provide you with the latest information.

Contact our customer service team if you have questions about traveling to the UAE or your visa application. Contact us via WhatsApp or online chat anytime.