Six New Nationalities and Six Additional Countries of Residence Added to Eligibility Criteria

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has expanded eligibility for the UAE Entry Visa for Nationals of Certain Countries, covering both the 14-day and 60-day visa categories. The updates reflect the UAE’s commitment to enhancing the flexibility of its entry and residence system while facilitating travel and delivering seamless services to visitors.

Under the updated eligibility criteria, nationals of the Republic of Indonesia, the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, the Kingdom of Thailand, the Republic of the Philippines, the Republic of Kenya, and the Republic of South Africa have been added to the list of eligible nationalities, alongside the Republic of India, which was previously the only eligible nationality. The amendments also expand the list of qualifying countries of residence to include the Republic of Singapore, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, in addition to the previously approved countries: the United States of America, European Union Member States, and the United Kingdom.

In this regard, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that expanding eligibility for this visa reflects the UAE’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with friendly countries and fostering lasting humanitarian, economic, and cultural partnerships. The Ministry also noted that the initiative creates broader opportunities for nationals of these countries to experience the UAE’s rich cultural heritage, world-class tourism offerings, dynamic economy, attractive business environment, and globally recognized infrastructure. It further emphasized that, in close coordination with relevant national authorities, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to facilitate the movement of individuals, streamline consular procedures, and reinforce the UAE’s position as a leading global destination for entrepreneurs, talent, and skilled professionals.

The Identity and Foreigners Affairs at the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), stated that the amendments to the Entry Visa for Nationals of Certain Countries reflect the Authority’s ongoing efforts to enhance visa services, expand eligibility, and meet the needs of a broader segment of travelers seeking to visit the UAE. He added that the amendments are aligned with evolving global trends in travel, tourism, and mobility, while strengthening international partnerships and reinforcing the UAE’s leading position in global competitiveness indicators related to residency, tourism, and travel.

The Authority explained that, to be eligible for the new visa, applicants and their accompanying family members must be nationals of the eligible countries and hold a valid residence permit issued by one of the following: the United States of America, a European Union Member State, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Singapore, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada. He noted that the permitted period of stay is either 14 days or 60 days, depending on the visa category.

Further to that, the 14-day visa may be extended once during the holder’s stay in the UAE, while the 60-day visa is issued as a single-entry, non-extendable visa. Visa holders are required to leave the UAE before the expiry of their authorized stay. An overstay fine of AED 50 per day will apply to violators.

The fee for the 14-day visa is AED 100, while the fee for the 60-day visa is AED 250.