The UAE Digital Government announced on Monday, October 14, 2024, that residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and their companions can apply for a 30-day e-visa to enter the UAE. The e-visa can further be extended for an additional 30 days.
Previously, to extend their visas, GCC residents had to leave the UAE and apply for a new entry visa.
What to Expect
- The online application can be processed through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or through the smart channels of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
- E-visa approvals will be sent to the registered email address once the application is approved.
- Companions of a GCC citizen will not be approved if the sponsor is not traveling with them.
- For GCC residents, the entry permit is valid for 30 days from the date of issue with the option to extend for an additional 30 days. For the companions of GCC citizens, the entry permit is valid for 60 days with the option to extend for an additional 60 days.
- If a GCC resident’s visa is expired or cancelled upon arrival or if the profession of the GCC resident has changed after the issuance of the entry permit, entry will be denied.
- The GCC residency must be valid for at least one year from the date of arrival and the passport must be valid at least 6 months from the arrival date.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.