Indian nationals can apply for a Dubai visa for Indian citizens online and they will be issued a digital copy on a registered email ID. With this facility, you do not need to deposit your passport at the embassy. Dubai is not only the largest city in the United Arab Emirates but is also among the largest cities in the world. It is well known for its architecture, the construction industry, its educational institutions, its tourist spots and glitzy shopping malls, as well as local “souks” (marketplaces).
With the huge number of Indian tourists visiting Dubai each year (except during the COVID-19 lockdown), having a travel insurance plan for Dubai is a compulsory requirement. Apart from the mandatory Dubai visa for Indians, having a foreign travel insurance policy protects you from many unexpected emergencies and situations, such as loss of baggage, delayed or cancelled flights, accidents, illnesses and much more!
For Indian citizens planning to visit Dubai, there are several visa options available depending on the purpose and duration of the visit. Here are some common visa types along with their fees:
- Tourist Visa: This visa is for individuals planning to visit Dubai for tourism purposes. It is typically valid for 30 or 90 days and can be extended if needed.
- Tourist Visa Fees: The fees for a tourist visa vary depending on the duration of stay and processing time. It can range from approximately INR 6,000 to INR 15,000.
- Transit Visa: If you are transiting through Dubai to another destination and your layover exceeds a certain duration, you may require a transit visa. This visa is usually valid for 48 to 96 hours.
- Transit Visa Fees: The fees for a transit visa are generally lower than tourist visas and can range from approximately INR 4,000 to INR 7,000.
- Visit Visa: This type of visa is for individuals who wish to visit family or friends residing in Dubai. It is typically valid for 30 or 90 days.
- Visit Visa Fees: The fees for a visit visa are similar to tourist visa fees and can range from approximately INR 6,000 to INR 15,000.
- Business Visa: For those traveling to Dubai for business purposes such as meetings, conferences, or negotiations, a business visa is required. This visa can be valid for different durations depending on the nature of the visit.
- Business Visa Fees: The fees for a business visa can vary widely based on the duration and urgency of processing, ranging from approximately INR 8,000 to INR 20,000.
It’s important to note that these fees are approximate and may vary based on factors such as exchange rates, additional services offered by the visa processing agencies, and any applicable taxes or surcharges. Additionally, there might be other requirements such as medical insurance, proof of accommodation, and financial statements, depending on the type of visa you are applying for. It’s advisable to check with the official consulate or embassy of the UAE and authorized visa processing agencies for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa types, fees, and application procedures.
- Job Offer: The first step to getting a work visa for Dubai is to secure a job offer from a company based in the UAE. The employer must apply for a work permit on your behalf.
- Approval from Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE): Once the job offer is accepted, the employer needs to apply for initial approval from the MOHRE. This involves submitting various documents, including a copy of the employment contract, educational certificates, passport copies, and a security clearance certificate.
- Entry Permit: Upon receiving initial approval from the MOHRE, the employer will provide you with an entry permit, which allows you to enter the UAE for employment purposes.
- Medical Fitness Test: Before entering the UAE, you will be required to undergo a medical fitness test at an approved medical center. The test typically includes a general health check-up and screening for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
- Emirates ID Registration: Once you arrive in the UAE, you will need to apply for an Emirates ID, which serves as your identification card. This can be done at authorized typing centers.
- Residence Visa: Within a certain period after entering the UAE, usually 60 days, you and your employer must complete the process of obtaining a residence visa. This involves submitting additional documents, such as passport photos, biometric data, and medical fitness test results, to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
- Labour Card: After obtaining the residence visa, your employer will apply for a labor card (work permit), which officially allows you to work in the UAE.
- Health Insurance: It is mandatory for all residents in the UAE, including expatriate workers, to have health insurance coverage provided by an approved insurance provider.
- Renewal: Work visas in Dubai are typically valid for two or three years and can be renewed upon expiration, subject to meeting certain conditions.
It’s essential to note that the specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on factors such as your job position, employer, and the emirate you will be working in. Additionally, it’s advisable to consult with your employer and the relevant UAE government authorities or seek assistance from a reputable visa consultancy service to ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements and complete the visa application process smoothly.
1. Determine the Type of Visa Needed:
- Tourist Visa: For individuals visiting Dubai for leisure or tourism purposes.
- Transit Visa: For travelers transiting through Dubai to another destination.
- Visit Visa: For visiting family or friends residing in Dubai.
- Work Visa: For individuals offered employment by a company in Dubai.
- Business Visa: For business-related visits such as meetings, conferences, or negotiations.
2. Understand Visa Requirements:
- Different visa types have specific requirements regarding documentation, such as passport validity, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, financial statements, and purpose of visit.
- Some visas may require additional documentation, such as an employment contract for work visas or an invitation letter for visit visas.
3. Choose the Right Application Channel:
- Applications for Dubai visas can be submitted through various channels, including:
- Online visa application portals provided by the Dubai government or authorized visa processing agencies.
- Visa application centers (VACs) or authorized travel agencies.
- Directly through the official website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai or other relevant UAE government portals.
4. Submit the Visa Application:
- Complete the visa application form accurately and ensure all required documents are provided.
- Pay the applicable visa fees. Fees may vary depending on the visa type, duration, and processing time.
- Some visa types may require sponsorship by a UAE resident or company. Ensure that the sponsor provides all necessary documents.
5. Attend Biometric Data Appointment (if required):
- Depending on the visa type and application channel, you may need to schedule an appointment to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs.
6. Await Visa Processing:
- Processing times vary depending on the type of visa and may range from a few days to several weeks.
- Track the status of your visa application through the designated application portal or contact the visa processing agency for updates.
7. Receive the Visa:
- Once the visa is approved, you will receive it via email or courier, depending on the application channel.
- Carefully review the visa details to ensure accuracy, including the validity dates and permitted duration of stay.
8. Travel to Dubai:
- Ensure that you have all required documents, including the visa, passport, travel itinerary, and any additional documentation specified by immigration authorities.
- Adhere to any entry requirements or COVID-19-related travel protocols imposed by Dubai or the UAE.
9. Comply with Visa Conditions:
- Abide by the terms and conditions of your visa, including adhering to the permitted duration of stay and any restrictions on employment or activities.
- Renew the visa if planning to extend your stay beyond the visa’s validity period.
10. Departure from Dubai:
- Depart Dubai before the expiration of your visa to avoid overstaying, which can lead to fines, deportation, or future entry restrictions.
It’s essential to stay updated on any changes to visa regulations and requirements, as these can vary over time. Always refer to official government sources or authorized visa processing agencies for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Dubai visa applications for Indian citizens.