Changes in the Visa-on-Arrival Policy for Indian Nationals

04 June 2024 - Indian nationals holding ordinary passports and who have a green card for the United States of America (USA) or a residence visa in the United Kingdom (UK) or European Union (EU) countries are now required to apply online for a pre-approved visa-on-arrival to enter the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a visitor for a 14-day period. This is a shift from the previous policy where eligible Indian national travelers were granted a visa-on-arrival at UAE airports.  This short-term visa can be extended once for an additional 14-day period.

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has outlined the following prerequisites for the online application:

A valid passport or travel document for entry into the country with a validity of no less than 6 months at the time of application and entry to the UAE.A permanent residence card (green card) issued by the USA, or a residence visa issued by the UK or EU countries, with a remaining validity period of no less than 6 months at the time of application and entry to the UAE.A passport photograph on a white background.

Deloitte’s view

The recent changes in UAE's immigration policy require Indian nationals with ordinary passports and a US green card or a residence visa in the UK or EU to apply online for a pre-approved visa-on-arrival for a 14-day visit. This marks a significant shift from the previous visa-on-arrival policy at the UAE airports.

Eligible Indian national travelers must familiarize themselves with these new requirements and ensure they obtain a pre-approval prior to travelling to the UAE to avoid potential delays or complications.

Contacts

Our immigration experts listed below would be happy to discuss the above matters in more detail or support you through a further discussion on your immigration requirements.