Changes in the Visa-on-Arrival Policy for Indian Nationals

 04 June 2024 - Indian nationals holding ordinary passports and who have a green card for the United States of America (USA) or a residence visa in the United Kingdom (UK) or European Union (EU) countries are now required to apply online for a pre-approved visa-on-arrival to enter the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a visitor for a 14-day period. This is a shift from the previous policy where eligible Indian national travelers were granted a visa-on-arrival at UAE airports. This short-term visa can be extended once for an additional 14-day period.

The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has outlined the following prerequisites for the online application:

• A valid passport or travel document for entry into the country with a validity of no less than 6 months at the time of application and entry to the UAE.
• A permanent residence card (green card) issued by the USA, or a residence visa issued by the UK or EU countries, with a remaining validity period of no less than 6 months at the time of application and entry to the UAE.
• A passport photograph on a white background.

Deloitte’s view

The recent changes in UAE's immigration policy require Indian nationals with ordinary passports and a US green card or a residence visa in the UK or EU to apply online for a pre-approved visa-on-arrival for a 14-day visit. This marks a significant shift from the previous visa-on-arrival policy at the UAE airports.

Eligible Indian national travelers must familiarize themselves with these new requirements and ensure they obtain a pre-approval prior to travelling to the UAE to avoid potential delays or complications.