Are you an Indian citizen looking to travel to the UAE? If you hold a permanent resident card (green card) issued by the US or a residence visa in the United Kingdom or European Union countries, you are eligible to obtain a 14-day entry visa upon arrival in the UAE.
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD) in Dubai offers a convenient service that allows you to apply for pre-approval of this visa, simplifying your immigration process upon arrival in the UAE.
To take advantage of this service, follow these steps:
How to apply for pre-approval of visa on arrival
Option 1: Do it yourself
If you have a UAE Pass account or an online account with the GDRFAD website, you have the ability to apply for pre-approval yourself by following these simple steps.
To begin, visit the GDRFAD website at gdrfad.gov.ae and log in using your UAE Pass or online account credentials. Once logged in, navigate to the ‘all services’ tab and select ‘Port services’.
From there, choose the option ‘Issuing visa via land, seaport or airport’ and then click on ‘Visa on arrival for citizens of the Republic of India residing in (America, Britain, European Union countries)’.
Complete the form with your personal information and trip details, such as your intended place of stay. Be sure to indicate the type of visa you hold, whether it be EU residency, US green card, or another type.
Attach all necessary documents to support your application, including copies of your passport and visa. Then, proceed to pay the application fees and submit your request.
According to the GDRFAD website, the pre-approval process may take up to 48 hours. Once your visa is approved, you will receive an online copy via your registered email address.
Option 2: Apply for it through an agency
If you do not possess a UAE Pass or an online GDRFAD account, you have the option to enlist the services of a registered travel and tourism agency in the UAE to facilitate the visa application process on your behalf.
Even individuals residing in the US or UK may prefer to have an agency handle the application process for them. In these instances, agencies can assist with the necessary documentation and submission process.
To proceed with this option, you will be required to furnish the required documents to the travel agent and cover the costs associated with the visa application, in addition to any service fees imposed by the agency.
Option 3: Pre-approval for Emirates passengers
If you are traveling with Emirates Airlines, you have the option to utilize their pre-approved visa-on-arrival service, which was introduced earlier this year.
Documents required
To enter the country, you must have a valid passport or travel document.
You can also enter with a Permanent Residence Card (Green Card) issued by the US, or a residence visa issued by the UK or European Union countries.
Additionally, you will need to provide a personal photo with a white background.
Cost
Dh253
If you choose to apply through an agency, please be aware that there may be additional service charges that you will need to pay.
Also Read: What is the UAE Blue Residency visa, who can apply, and how to apply
