The United Arab Emirates has introduced a new multi-entry visit visa designed to provide greater flexibility for foreign nationals visiting family and friends, without requiring a local sponsor or guarantor. This innovative visa allows for stays of 30, 60, or 90 days, catering to various travel needs, according to Gulf News.
The visa is available to individuals wishing to visit close relatives, such as parents, children, siblings, and spouses, with the requirement of providing proof of relationship through documents like marriage or birth certificates. Friends can also apply for the visa, but they must present valid reasons for their visit, such as attending significant events or spending quality time with close associates.
Applications can be submitted through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website, mobile app, or at service centres across the UAE. The process is straightforward, with a list of required documents, including:
- A valid passport with at least six months of validity
- Two recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of financial stability
- Employment or business documentation, such as a salary certificate or business license
The visa fees are as follows:
- AED 300 (approximately Rs 22,755) for a 30-day visa
- AED 500 (approximately Rs 37,925) for a 60-day visa
- AED 700 (approximately Rs 53,095) for a 90-day visa
In addition to the visa fees, applicants must also pay a refundable deposit of AED 2,000 (approximately Rs 151,700) as financial security. Minor administrative charges and mandatory medical insurance, costing between AED 40 and AED 90 (approximately Rs 3,034 to Rs 6,825), depending on the visa duration, are also required.
This new visa is expected to simplify the process for visiting family and friends in the UAE, making travel more accessible and convenient.
