The UAE offers various visa options tailored to different travel needs, from short weekend getaways to extended stays. With visa validity periods ranging from 48 hours to 5 years, and different rules for entry validity versus stay duration, navigating the UAE visa system can seem complex. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about UAE entry visa validity, including how long you can stay, extension options, overstay penalties, and special visa categories for different nationalities.
Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends, knowing how long your visa remains valid can help you organize your trip effectively and avoid any last-minute complications.
What is Visa Validity?
Visa validity refers to two important timeframes: the period during which you can enter the UAE (entry validity) and the duration you’re allowed to stay in the country (stay validity). These are distinct concepts that every traveler should understand before booking their trip.
UAE Entry Visa Validity Period
Most UAE visas are valid for entry within 60 days from the date of issue. This means once your visa is issued, you have a 60-day window to enter the UAE. However, short-term transit visas of 48 hours and 96 hours have a shorter entry validity of 30 days from the date of issue.
It’s important to note that the entry validity is 59 days from the date of issue for visit visas according to some sources, though the standard is generally 60 days. Always check your specific visa document for the exact “valid until” date.
Types of UAE Tourist Visas and Their Stay Validity
30-Day Tourist Visa
The 30-day tourist visa allows visitors to stay in the UAE for 30 days and costs AED 400 including VAT. This is the most common short-term visa option for tourists planning brief visits. A 30-day visa has a validity period of 60 days from the date of issue. The passenger must enter the UAE before the validity expires. Once they enter, the 30-day stay period begins from the date of entry.
For example, if the visa is issued on October 4, it will be valid for entry until December 2 (60 days from the issue date). If the passenger enters the UAE on November 15, they can stay until December 14 (30 days including the entry date). After entry, the exact visa expiry date can be checked through the ICP link.
60-Day Tourist Visa
The 60-day tourist visa permits a stay of 60 days in the UAE and costs AED 600 including VAT. This visa is ideal for extended holidays or longer family visits. A 60-day visa has a validity period of 60 days from the date of issue. The passenger must enter the UAE before the validity expires. Once they enter, the 60-day stay period begins from the date of entry.
For example, if the visa is issued on October 4, it will be valid for entry until December 2 (60 days from the issue date). If the passenger enters the UAE on November 15, they can stay until January 13 (60 days including the entry date). After entry, the exact visa expiry date can be checked through the ICP link.
90-Day Tourist Visa
The 90-day visa is valid for a 90-day stay with single entry, including the date of entry and exit. This type is preferred by travelers with longer stays, such as extended holidays, visiting family and friends, or business training. A 90-day visa has a validity period of 60 days from the date of issue. The passenger must enter the UAE before the validity expires. Once they enter, the 90-day stay period begins from the date of entry, followed by a 10-day grace period, giving a total of 100 days.
For example, if the visa is issued on October 4, it will be valid for entry until December 2 (60 days from the issue date). If the passenger enters the UAE on November 15, they can stay until February 22 (90 days stay + 10 days grace, including the entry date). After entry, the exact visa expiry date can be checked through the ICP link.
5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
The multiple entry 5-year tourist visa enables tourists to enter the UAE multiple times on self-sponsorship and remain in the country for 90 days on each visit, and can be extended for a further 90 days. This visa type is available for all nationalities and is perfect for frequent visitors to the UAE. Visitors are allowed to stay in the UAE for up to 180 days within one year.
Visa Extensions
UAE tourist visas offer different extension options depending on the type:
- 30-Day Visa: Can be extended three times, with each extension valid for 30 days
- 60-Day Visa: Can be extended two times, with each extension valid for 30 days
- 90-Day Visa: Can be extended two times. The first entry may allow you to stay for 100 days. The first extension will add 30 days, and the second extension will add only 20 days.
These extensions can be processed without needing to leave and re-enter the country for renewal, providing additional flexibility if you need to extend your stay in the UAE beyond your original visa period.
Overstay Penalties
It’s crucial to adhere to your visa validity dates. If you fail to extend your entry visa and overstay, you will have to pay a fine of AED 50 per day from the date your visa expires. There is no grace period for visit visas, so overstay fines begin immediately after expiration. These fines can accumulate quickly, so always ensure your visa remains valid throughout your stay.
Important Requirements
When applying for a UAE visa, remember that:
- The validity of the passport or travel document should be no less than 6 months
- The traveler should not have any restrictions preventing entry to the country
- For certain visa categories, additional requirements may apply
Checking Your Visa Validity
For the emirates of Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, you can check the status of your visa application and its validity on the website of Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security – ICP. For the emirate of Dubai, check the status through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (DNRD).
Special Categories
Visa on Arrival
Some nationalities are eligible for visa on arrival privileges:
30-Day Visa on Arrival: Citizens of certain countries can obtain a visa upon arrival for 30 days without needing advance visa arrangements. Check more details from Emirates site.
90-Day Visa on Arrival: Citizens of select countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States can obtain a visa upon arrival for 90 days. This visa allows stays of 90 days within a 180-day period for business and tourism purposes.
180-Day Visa on Arrival: Mexican citizens can obtain a visa on arrival valid for 180 days.
Indian Citizens: Indian citizens holding a normal passport with either a U.S. visa, green card, UK residence permit, or EU residence permit can obtain an entry visa upon arrival in the UAE, valid for 14 days, for a fee of AED 100.
Note: Lists of countries eligible for visa on arrival may vary, so always check with the UAE embassy in your country before traveling.
Transit Visas
48-hour and 96-hour transit visas are available for travelers with confirmed tickets to or from a third country and a valid visa for that destination. These visas are specifically designed for travelers with layovers who wish to explore the UAE briefly during their transit. Transit visas cannot be extended.
Key Takeaways
- Always enter the UAE within the entry validity period (typically 60 days from visa issuance)
- Your stay duration depends on your visa type (30, 60, or 90 days)
- Extensions are available but must be applied for before your visa expires
- Keep your passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry
- Monitor your visa dates closely to avoid overstay penalties
Frequently asked question for UAE entry visa validity
How long is a UAE entry permit valid for?
A UAE entry permit is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. The passenger must enter the UAE within this period; otherwise, the visa will expire.
What is the visa expiry date of entry?
The visa expiry date of entry refers to the last date you can use the visa to enter the UAE, which is 60 days from the issue date. Once you enter, your stay period (30, 60, or 90 days, depending on your visa type) will begin.
How do I know my last entry date in the UAE?
Your last entry date is stamped in your passport by immigration when you arrive in the UAE. It is also recorded in the UAE immigration system.
How to check the end date of a visa?
You can check the visa end date through the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) online portal or app by entering your visa and passport details.
What is the new rule for visit visa in the UAE?
According to the latest rules, visit visas can be extended without leaving the country. A 30-day visa can be extended up to 3 times, while a 60-day visa can be extended twice, each time for 30 days. Overstaying beyond the allowed period will result in daily fines.
Planning your UAE visit with a clear understanding of visa validity ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience in this dynamic destination.
Need to Apply for a UAE Visa?
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