The UAE Digital Government announced that residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and their companions can now apply for a 30-day e-visa to enter the UAE, with the option to extend for an additional 30 days.
This marks a significant change, as previously, GCC residents were required to leave the country to apply for a new entry visa if they needed to extend their stay.
UAE e-visa for GCC residents
The e-visa is mandatory for residents of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar wishing to enter the UAE.
Applications can be submitted online through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or via the smart channels of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
Visa application details
Applicants should keep the following conditions in mind when applying for the e-visa:
- Approval Notification: Once the application is approved, the e-visa will be sent to the applicant’s registered email address.
- Traveling with a Sponsor: Applications for GCC residents and their companions will not be approved if the sponsor is not traveling with them.
Entry permit validity
- For GCC Residents: The entry permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issue, allowing a stay of 30 days upon entry. This can be extended for an additional 30 days.
- For Companions of GCC Citizens: The entry permit is valid for 60 days from the date of issue, allowing a stay of 60 days. This visa is also extendable for another 60 days.
Conditions for entry denial
Travelers should be aware of the following conditions that may lead to denial of entry:
- If a GCC resident’s visa is expired or cancelled upon arrival, they will be denied entry.
- If there has been a change in the profession of the GCC resident after the issuance of the entry permit, entry will also be denied.
- GCC residency must be valid for at least one year from the date of arrival.
- Passports must be valid for at least six months from the arrival date.
Application process
To apply for the entry permit, GCC residents can visit the GDRFA website at https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae. 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 with profession and validity, and a personal photo with a white background.
After completing the application, applicants must pay a fee of Dhs 250 plus VAT. Once approved, the visa will be sent directly to the applicant’s email.
This new e-visa process aims to streamline entry for GCC residents and enhance travel convenience to the UAE.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
