It’s been a rocky road for tourists this week. Earlier we just found out that tourists will no longer have a grace period after their UAE visit visa has expired. But it seems like things are looking up once again. This is the latest announcement made by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), and here is everything you need to know about it.
Also read: UAE Removes Grace Period for Visit Visas: Understanding The New Policy & Fines
The UAE has introduced significant changes to its visa procedures, initiated by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). These reforms aim to enhance the country’s residency and entry permit system, resulting in several developments in the visit visa system.
Extension Duration And Eligibility
Individuals holding a 30 or 60-day visit visa in the UAE can now extend their stay by an additional 30 days. This decision allows tourists to explore and experience the diverse offerings of the country. The maximum extension period for a visit visa holder is 120 days, as stated on the ICA website.
Process For Extension
To extend their stay, tourists or visitors should reach out to their visa issuing agent or sponsor. The issuing travel agent or sponsor can provide detailed information about the extension process, required documentation, applicable fees, and other relevant details. It is crucial to initiate this process well in advance of the current visa’s expiration to ensure sufficient time for the extension to be processed.
Required Documentation
To extend a visit visa, the visitor’s passport is a necessary document. The issuing agent will provide specific details regarding the required documents for the extension.
Also read: UAE Residency Visa Process Gets Easier; Moves Online
Time Duration And Charges
The duration of the extension process may vary depending on the travel agent who handles the application. However, according to the ICP website, the service is typically completed within 48 hours after fulfilling the necessary requirements. The cost of a one-month extension is AED 1,050, as confirmed by Firose Khan, the operation manager at Arabian Business Centre.
Breakdown Of Extension Charges
The GDRFA has provided a breakdown of the extension charges on their website.
– Visa extension fee: AED 600 (in addition to the value-added tax – 5%).
Additional fees (if the sponsored person is inside the country):
– Knowledge dirham: AED 10
– Innovation dirham: AED 10
– Fee inside the country: AED 500
It is important to note that the total cost may vary based on individual circumstances or any other relevant factors, as mentioned on the website.
Application Process And Penalties
The application for an extension of the entry permit for tourism is facilitated through tourism companies, as stated on the ICP website. Visitors are strongly advised to either leave the country before their visa expires or extend their visas to avoid incurring penalties or facing difficulties during their exit.
Tourists in the UAE holding a 30 or 60-day visit visa can extend their stay by an additional 30 days, allowing them more time to enjoy the country’s offerings. By contacting their visa issuing agent or sponsor, individuals can initiate the extension process. The required documentation, fees, and processing time may vary, so it is essential to consult with the agent for accurate information. The UAE government encourages visitors to comply with visa regulations to ensure a smooth and penalty-free stay in the country.
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