New E-Visa Policy for GCC Residents: Enhanced Access to the UAE

Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can now apply for a 30-day e-visa to enter the UAE, with the option to extend it for an additional 30 days. This announcement was made by the UAE Digital Government on Monday, marking a significant change in visa policies for GCC residents.

Previously, GCC residents were unable to extend their visas while in the UAE and had to exit the country to apply for a new entry visa if needed.

Key Details:

• Eligible GCC Countries: Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar.
• Application Process: E-visas can be processed online through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or the smart channels of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).

Important Conditions for E-Visa Applications:

1. Approval Notification: E-visa approvals will be sent to the registered email address of the applicant.

2. Traveling with Sponsor: Applications for GCC expats and their companions (family members) will only be approved if the sponsor is traveling with them.

Entry Permit Validity:

• GCC Residents: The entry permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance, allowing a stay of 30 days from the date of entry. This can be extended for an additional 30 days.
• Companions of GCC Citizens: The entry permit is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance, permitting a stay of 60 days from the date of entry. This can also be extended for an additional 60 days.

Conditions for Entry Denial:

• Entry will be denied if a GCC resident's visa has expired or been canceled upon arrival.
• If there is a change in the profession of the GCC resident after the issuance of the entry permit, entry will be denied.

Additional Requirements:

• Residency Validity: GCC residency must be valid for at least one year from the date of arrival.
• Passport Validity: The passport of GCC residents must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.

How to Apply:

GCC residents can apply for the entry permit by visiting the GDRFAD website. Applicants must register as users, select the appropriate service, and complete the application form.

Required documents include:

• A valid passport or travel document.
• A copy of the residence permit or an electronic extract that includes the profession and validity of the residence.
• A personal photo with a white background.

The application fee is Dh250 plus VAT. Once approved, the e-visa will be sent to the applicant’s email address.

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