he UAE has broadened the visa-on-arrival programme for Indian nationals and their families holding regular passports.
Effective February 13 this year, the new regulations will allow Indian passport holders to enter the UAE with valid visas, residency permits, or green cards from six additional countries, expanding the previous list that included the United States, European Union nations, and the United Kingdom.
The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) announced that Indian passport holders with valid residency permits from Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada will also now benefit from this initiative.
The programme allows visitors to enter the UAE without obtaining a prior visa. Upon arrival, these individuals will receive entry visas at all approved entry points in the UAE, provided their passports have a minimum validity of six months and applicable fees are paid, according to the country’s regulations.
Visa cost and validity
According to ICP, the fee for issuing a 14-day entry visa for Indian nationals and their family members holding regular passports who have valid visas, residency permits, or green cards from the above-mentioned countries is Dh100.
The fee for extending the visa for another 14 days is Dh250. The fee for issuing a 60-day visa is also Dh250.
This expansion is seen as a reflection of the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between the UAE and India.
It aims to facilitate smoother travel for Indian nationals and their families, offering them greater opportunities to explore living, working, and residing in the UAE.
The initiative is expected to enhance the UAE's appeal as a destination for tourism and investment, showcasing its robust economic infrastructure and vibrant business environment.
Experts believe that this move will not only strengthen bilateral relations but also attract talented professionals and entrepreneurs from India, bolstering the UAE's position as a global economic and financial hub.
Source: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/life-and-living/visa-and-immigration-in-uae/uae-expands-visa-waiver-programme-for-indian-visitors-families