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Indian citizens now have an easier way to visit Dubai with a 14-day pre-approved visa-on-arrival. This visa is available for Indian passport holders who meet certain criteria and can be extended for another 14 days if needed. Here's a simple guide on how to apply for this service online.
Who Is Eligible?
To be eligible for the 14-day visa-on-arrival, Indian passport holders must have:
- A valid US visa
- A US Green Card
- EU Residency
- UK Residency visa
These documents must be valid for at least six months. If you meet these criteria, you can apply for the visa online before your trip.
How to Apply Online
1. Visit the GDRFA Website: The first step is to log in to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website.
2. Fill in Your Details: Complete the application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans.
3. Pay the Fees: The application fee is approximately 253 Dirhams. You can pay this online using a credit or debit card.
4. Submit Your Application: After filling in your details and paying the fee, submit your application.
What Happens Next?
The visa process usually takes about 48 hours. Once your visa is approved, you will receive an email notification. Make sure to check your email regularly during this period.
Documents You Will Need
When applying for the visa, you will need to have the following documents ready:
- A valid passport (must be valid for at least six months)
- Travel documents (flight tickets, hotel bookings, etc.)
- A permanent residence card from the US or UK
- A recent photograph
Extension of the Visa
If you want to extend your stay in Dubai, you can apply for an additional 14 days. However, this extension can only be done once. To extend your visa, you will need to visit the GDRFA office in Dubai and submit the necessary documents.
Emirates Partnership with VFS Global
In addition to the GDRFA service, Emirates airline has introduced an exclusive partnership with VFS Global. This partnership allows Indian passport holders traveling with Emirates to use the pre-approved visa-on-arrival service. This initiative, facilitated by the Dubai Visa Processing Centre (DVPC), offers a 14-day single entry visa and helps travelers avoid long queues upon arrival in Dubai.
Steps for Emirates Passengers
1. Book Your Flight: First, book your flight with Emirates.
2. Apply for the Visa: Use the Emirates website or contact VFS Global to apply for the pre-approved visa-on-arrival.
3. Receive Confirmation: Once your visa is approved, you will receive a confirmation email.
4. Travel to Dubai: When you arrive in Dubai, you can bypass the regular visa queues and go straight to immigration.
Benefits of the Service
This new visa service is designed to make traveling to Dubai easier and more convenient for Indian citizens. By applying online and getting pre-approved, you can save time and avoid the hassle of applying for a visa upon arrival.
