Pre-Approved Visa on Arrival for Indians Requires Online Application: How to Apply

Indians with an ordinary passport who also possess a US green card or a residence visa from the UK or European Union must apply online to obtain a pre-approved visa-on-arrival. This allows entry into the UAE as a visitor for 14 days.

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai stated that this short-term visa can be extended once for an additional 14 days.

Previously, eligible Indian travellers could receive a visa-on-arrival at UAE airports, stamped at the immigration counter upon arrival. Now, they must apply online beforehand.

Requirements Outlined by GDRFA

• A valid passport or travel document.
• A permanent residence card (green card) from the USA or a residence visa from the UK or European Union.
• A personal photo with a white background.

Online Application Process

Eligible Indian tourists must first visit the GDRFA website to register, fill in the required information, and pay a fee of Dh253. Once approved, the visa will be emailed to the applicant. The process is typically completed within 48 hours.

Terms and Conditions

GDRFA also specified the following terms and conditions for the short-term visit visa:

• The traveler must not have any restrictions preventing entry into the UAE.
• The passport or travel document must be valid for at least six months.
• The visa or green card from the USA must be valid for at least six months.
•  The residence visa from the UK or European Union must be valid for at least six months.

Emirates’ Pre-Approved Visa-on-Arrival Facility

In February, Emirates introduced a pre-approved visa-on-arrival service for certain Indian passport holders booking travel with the airline. This 14-day single-entry visa allows Emirates customers to bypass queues upon arrival in Dubai.

The Dubai Visa Processing Centre (DVPC) - VFS Global’s facility designated by Emirates Airline to process UAE visas - handles the application.
Emirates noted that the issuance of visas remains at the discretion of the GDRFA.

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