O HINDUSTAN DESKAbu Dhabi: The UAE’s expanded visa-on-arrival program for Indian nationals took effect on February 13, extending the facility to Indian nationals residing in more countries.
Eligibility and New Countries
Indian citizens holding ordinary passports and valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from six new countries—Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada—will now be granted visas upon arrival at all UAE entry points. These are in addition to the previously eligible nations, namely the US, European Union, and UK.
Requirements for Visa on Arrival
Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months.
Visa Fees: The entry visa fee for a 14-day stay is Dh100, with an option to extend for an additional 14 days at a cost of Dh250. Additionally, a 60-day visa is available for Dh250.
Objective of the Initiative
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), emphasized that the expanded visa-on-arrival program aligns with the long-term strategic partnership between the UAE and India. The initiative aims to facilitate smoother travel for Indian citizens, providing them and their families with new opportunities to explore life, residency, and employment prospects in the UAE. It also allows visitors to experience the UAE’s world-class tourism, dynamic business environment, and economic landscape, while attracting top global talent and entrepreneurs.
Additional Visa Exemption Agreements
India has signed visa exemption agreements with several countries for holders of diplomatic and official passports, including the UAE, where such passport holders are exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 90 days.
