United Arab Emirates Visa – Requirements and Application
Do I Need a Visa for the United Arab Emirates?
Yes, a visa is needed to enter the United Arab Emirates. The visa issued is a VoA (visa on arrival) if the intended stay is for less than one month. This applies for both tourist and business visas. The passport must be valid for at least six months and there is no additional cost.
Visas can be extended from within the country, but is advised that you check with the local immigration office ahead of time.
If you plan to stay for more than one month, you must complete a visa application with all the necessary documents. Visas require a minimum two days to process.
United Arab Emirates Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to the United Arab Emirates? | |
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| Passport |  |
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| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: United Arab Emirates Embassy and U.S. State Department
What Do I Need for a United Arab Emirates Visa Application?
Countries often require different items for different visas. The application process may differ depending on the type of visa you’re interested in obtaining.
Applicants for a visa to the UAE will require the following: a passport valid for at least six months, a completed visa application, passport copies, confirmed travel plans, and passport-sized photos.
Each one of these items have specific requirements that must be met. Please note, these requirements can change quickly and may differ based on your specific situation.
Open a tab below to see the different types of documents needed for your particular visa.
Visas are issued on arrival and are cost-free. If you plan to stay in the UAE for more than one month, you will need to apply for a visa. In addition to a completed application form, the following items are required:
Passport:
- Valid for at least six months
- One blank page for the visa
Photograph:
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Taken within the last three months and printed on high-quality paper.
- Taken against an all white background
- Be two inches by two inches
- Provide the full frontal view of your head with neutral expression.
Additional documents:
- Two completed application forms (typed only)
- A copy of your passport (in color)
- A copy of the application (in color)
- Proof of travel
Business visas are issued on arrival and are cost-free. If you plan to stay in the UAE for more than one month, you will need to apply for a visa. In addition to a completed application form, the following items are required:
Passport:
- Valid for at least six months
- One blank page for the visa
Photograph:
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Taken within the last three months and printed on high-quality paper.
- Taken against an all white background
- Be two inches by two inches
- Provide the full frontal view of your head with neutral expression.
Additional documents:
- Two completed application forms (typed only)
- A copy of your passport (in color)
- A copy of the application (in color)
- Proof of travel
- Letter stating business activity
While other visa types are available, their requirements can vary greatly. Contact us to find out what you may need for your specific trip.
How Can Passport Health Help Me With the Visa Process?
Passport Health’s travel documents team will walk you through the visa process step-by-step and handle the sometimes difficult communication with embassies and consulates. Contact us today to start your worry-free visa processing.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Visa for the United Arab Emirates
“The staff was so informative, knowledgeable and incredibly friendly! We are traveling to the UAE soon, but will also be traveling to Ecuador for adoption in the near future. Our travel documents are in order and we couldn’t be happier.”
“Excellent information provided for our visas for the UAE. Staff was very helpful and pleasant.”
How Much Do United Arab Emirates Visas Cost?
Currently, a visa is not required for short-term stays in the UAE. Citizens of the United States can visit the UAE for up to 30 days without a visa.
For stays longer than 30 days, visitor may need to apply for a visa extension, which can cost more than $200. They may also apply for a visa for stays longer than a month before traveling. Costs start at $50.
Visa fees do not include postage, service or consular fees.
Are Any Vaccines Required for the United Arab Emirates?
The UAE does not require vaccination for entry. But, some immunizations are recommended.
Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are commonly recommended for travelers to the UAE. Rabies and routine vaccinations may be recommended based on your itinerary and immunization history.
To learn more about health concerns in the region, see our United Arab Emirates destination advice page.
U.S. Embassy in the United Arab Emirates
All U.S. citizens visiting the UAE should register with the STEP program before their trip. This State Department program provides extra information and support in case of emergency. Passport Health’s travel documents staff can assist you in registering.
U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi
P.O. Box 4009
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Phone: +971-2 414 2200
For More Information About The United Arab Emirates…
See Passport Health’s United Arab Emirates destination advice page with information on safety, climate and more. Or, start your visa process by contacting us today!
Do I Need a Visa for the UAE?
What Do I Need for a UAE Visa Application?
United Arab Emirates Tourism Visa Application
United Arab Emirates Business Visa Application
Other United Arab Emirates Visa Applications
How Can Passport Health Help Me With the Visa Process?
How Much Do UAE Visas Cost?
Are Any Vaccines Required for the UAE?
U.S. Embassy in the UAE
For More Information About the UAE…
