The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made a significant shift in its visa issuance policies, discontinuing the three-month visit visas that were once a popular choice for tourists. This change comes as part of a series of revisions in entry permits, leaving travelers and the tourism industry to adapt to new rules.
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According to reports & as mentioned by Khaleej Time – the issuance of three-month visit visas in the UAE has been officially halted, leaving travelers with fewer options for extended stays in the country. A Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) call center executive confirmed that the three-month visas are no longer available, marking a significant policy change in the region.
Discontinuation Of Three-Month Visit Visas
The discontinuation of three-month visit visas represents the latest development in a shifting policy landscape. The three-month visit visa had been previously discontinued during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a 60-day visa introduced as an alternative. However, the three-month scheme was reinstated as a leisure visa in May, only to be discontinued once more.
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While travelers can still enter the UAE on 30- or 60-day visas, this change has left many uncertain about their travel plans. Travel agencies have reported that they are unable to issue the three-month visit visas through the portals they commonly use to issue permits, adding to the confusion surrounding this new policy.
In Dubai, a 90-day visa option is still available but with certain restrictions. This longer stay is exclusively offered to visitors who are first-degree relatives of residents in the emirate. As a result, residents can bring their parents or relatives on the three-month scheme, offering some relief for family visits.
Exploring Alternative Long-Term Visa Options
As the UAE discontinues the three-month visit visa, travelers seeking long-term stays in the country must explore alternative visa options to fulfill their needs.
Job Exploration Visa
The UAE offers a range of visa options for individuals seeking employment opportunities within the country. The job exploration visa is one such option, available in three different durations: 60 days, 90 days, and 120 days. What’s unique about this visa is that it doesn’t require a guarantor or a host.
Applicants can apply for a job exploration visa through digital channels like the official website or smart application of GDRFA and ICP. Amer centers in the country also offer this service. The fees vary based on the duration, with Dh200 for 60 days, Dh300 for 90 days, and Dh400 for 120 days, accompanied by a financial guarantee of a security deposit of Dh1,000.
5-Year Multiple Entry Visa
Another attractive long-term visa option is the 5-year multiple entry visa, which allows visitors to enter the UAE multiple times via self-sponsorship, offering a 90-day stay during each visit. Moreover, visa holders can extend their stay for an additional 90 days without leaving the country.
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This visa is particularly useful for families wishing to spend extended periods with their loved ones in the UAE. It is available for three categories: Investor/partner, high-level skilled worker, and self-employment. Applicants must provide supporting documents, including a six-month bank statement.
To apply for the Green visa, individuals can utilize digital channels (website/smart application), visit customer happiness centers, or head to an Amer Service Center with the required documentation. This multifaceted visa system aims to cater to a diverse range of long-term visitors.
