How to Apply for UAE eVisa

Discover how to apply for a UAE eVisa online with this complete step-by-step guide. Learn about eligibility, visa types, required documents, processing times, fees, and common mistakes to avoid when applying for your UAE travel authorization.

Nov 7, 2025 - 18:11

Once a regional hub for trade and culture, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is now one of the most visited destinations globally. Famous for its towering skyscrapers, luxurious shopping, golden deserts, and rich cultural experiences, the UAE attracts millions of visitors every year. The introduction of the UAE eVisa has made it simpler for international visitors to obtain travel authorization before arrival, offering a smooth and convenient alternative to traditional visa applications.

This detailed guide is packed with all the correct and up-to-date information required for an online application that will surely be successful. By taking these straightforward steps and being aware of the primary requirements, you will be able to obtain your eVisa in no time and thus be able to spend all your time planning your trip to the ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌Emirates.

Who is eligible for a Dubai E-visa?

The UAE eVisa is accessible to citizens from most countries worldwide, depending on the purpose of the visit. It allows entry for tourism, business, and other authorized purposes. However, some nationals qualify for UAE Visa on Arrival, skipping the need for pre-application.

Visa-Exempt Countries: Free Visa & Visa on Arrival

GCC Nationals: Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia) can enter the UAE without a pre-approved visa.
Other Eligible Countries: Certain countries may obtain a visa on arrival, typically for 30 days.

Travelers from these countries should confirm requirements on official UAE immigration portals before traveling, as rules can change. Citizens of other countries need to apply for the UAE eVisa online before departure.

What are the different types of eVisa in the UAE?

Choosing the correct visa type is crucial because required documents, validity, and permitted activities differ for each category.

Virtual Work Residency Visa – 1 Year, Single Entry
Designed for remote workers planning to live in the UAE while employed abroad. Requires employment proof and remote work contracts.

Evisa for Special Visa holders – 14 Days, Single Entry
Ideal for short-term business or official visits. Requires an invitation letter from a UAE company or organization.

Evisa for Special Visa holders – 60 Days, Single Entry
For longer official or personal visits. Requires documentation similar to 14-day special visas.

Evisa – Long Term Tourism – 5 Years, Multiple Entry
Designed for frequent travelers visiting the UAE regularly. Requires evidence of travel history or multiple prior visits.

Evisa – GCC Citizens – 60 Days, Multiple Entry
Allows GCC nationals to enter multiple times within the validity period, with minimal documentation.

What documents are needed for a UAE eVisa?

A successful application depends on proper document preparation. Scanned, high-resolution documents ready for upload help ensure fast approval.

Basic Documents Required

Valid Passport: A valid Passport for 6 months validity from the intended arrival date.

Passport-Size Photo: Recent color passport-size photo with a white background.
Flight & Accommodation Proof: Confirmed return flight tickets and hotel bookings.
Proof of Financial Means: Recent bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds.
Travel Insurance: Recommended for medical emergencies.

Additional Documents by eVisa Type

Virtual Work Residency Visa: Employment certificate, remote work contract, or proof of freelance activity.
Business/Official Visits: Invitation letters from UAE companies or organizations.
Long Term Tourism: Evidence of multiple prior visits or travel history.
GCC Citizens: Passport usually suffices; minimal documentation required.

How to Apply for a UAE eVisa? (Step-by-Step)

Once you’ve checked the visa requirements and confirmed that you’re eligible for a UAE visit, the next step is the application process. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

Choose the type of visa: The first step in your e-visa application is to choose the type of visa you need based on the purpose (e.g., Tourist, Virtual Work, or Long Term Tourism) of your visit and the duration of your stay.

Fill out the application form: The application form for a visit visa to the UAE can be filled out online. The online UAE visa services process is more convenient and faster, allowing you to complete the application form from the comfort of your home.

Upload the required documents: You must upload all the abovementioned documents, including your passport and photograph.

Pay the visa fee: Once you’ve completed the application form, you must pay the visa fee for UAE eVisa online using a valid credit or debit card.
Submit your application: After paying the visa fee, you can submit your UAE visit visa online application.

How much does a Dubai eVisa cost?

The cost of the visa includes the government consular fee and any associated service charges, forming the total UAE eVisa cost & fees. This amount must be paid online at the time of submission.

How long does it take to get an e-visa for the UAE?

The standard processing time for many visas is typically between 3–9 working days. However, UAE eVisa processing is available for an extra fee. This accelerated service reduces the processing time significantly, often to just 1–3 working days, and is recommended for travelers with strict deadlines or emergency travel.

How long is the e visa valid for in the UAE?

Understanding the terms of your UAE eVisa validity is paramount to avoiding severe penalties for overstaying.

The validity period depends entirely on the visa type. Short-term visas are typically valid for entry between 14 to 60 days, while the Long Term Tourism visa allows validity up to 5 years, with multiple entry privileges. The actual permitted stay period begins upon entry into the UAE.

Can an e-visa be extended in the UAE?

Yes, most short-term visas, including tourism and business visas, can be extended before expiry. This UAE eVisa extension process requires the applicant to submit a passport copy, current eVisa copy, proof of accommodation, and a reason for the extension to the immigration authorities. Extensions are typically granted for an additional period, subject to approval and payment of the required fee.

Do I need health insurance to enter Dubai?

Health insurance is not a must-have for the issuance of an eVisa, however, it is still very advisable. The UAE healthcare system is of high quality, but a medical treatment could be costly, especially if you choose a private facility. Besides, a complete policy should cover an emergency medical evacuation as well.

What is the best currency to take to the UAE?

Efficient management of money and connectivity is crucial for a smooth trip.

Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED)

Official Currency: AED (Dirham)
Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000 AED
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 fils; 1 AED coin
Cash vs Card: Most credit/debit cards can be used in malls, hotels, and restaurants. It is better to have some cash on hand if you are taking a taxi, going to local markets, buying from small vendors, or giving a tip.

Which SIM card is best in the UAE?

The UAE offers great mobile services that are both fast and reliable. The most attractive offers are generally found at Etisalat, Du, and Virgin Mobile.

Where to Buy: Local shops, airport kiosks, and malls.
Registration: Passport required to activate SIM.
Prepaid Plans: Tourist packages are a good option when you need to stay a short period and want to have a high data allowance.
Connectivity Tips: The hotels, cafes, and malls offer Wi-Fi connections; prepaid SIM is the best way to ensure you always have Internet access when you are not at home or work.

What is the most visited city in the UAE?

One can experience different things in the seven emirates of the UAE:

Dubai: Burj Khalifa, the largest mall in the world - Dubai Mall, the Desert Safari, and the famous Palm Jumeirah among other things.
Abu Dhabi: It has as its main attractions - Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the thrilling Ferrari World.

Sharjah: Mainly recognized for its abundant cultural centers, numerous museums, and heritage sites.
Fujairah: It boasts nature with the Hajar Mountains and the beaches, an ideal place for water sports lovers.
Ras Al Khaimah & Ajman: Places that offer you peaceful resorts, beautiful landscapes, and opportunities for adventure sports are the two locations that are located side by side 24 km from each ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌other.

Common‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ Mistakes to Avoid During UAE eVisa Application

Here are some mistakes you should avoid in order to have a smooth approval:

Mismatched Personal Information: Double-check that the information in your application corresponds to the details in your passport.
Low-Quality or Incomplete Documents: Make sure that the copies are of good quality and high resolution; in most cases, rejections are due to photos that are not clear or documents that are partially visible.
Wrong Visa Category Selection: The first thing you need to do is to identify which eVisa category matches your point of visit the most, then make the application accordingly (e.g., if you are going to work, do not apply for a tourist visa).
Late Submission: When you submit your application at the very last moment, you might only have time for an emergency processing fee to be charged or even delay your trip.

The proper preparation of documents and going through the papers yourself will greatly reduce your chances of experiencing inconvenience and will guarantee you a smooth travel journey.

Inspirational Ending: Welcome to the UAE

UAE eVisa procedures are not only quick but also very versatile, opening up the doors of one of the most exciting places on the planet to just about anyone. Several UAE eVisa types are available, catering to the needs of tourists, business travelers, remote workers, as well as UAE eVisa GCC Citizens. Now, if you are wondering how to get a visa, the answer is simple, all you have to do is pick the right visa category, prepare the necessary documents, lodge your application via the online, and take note of the currency, connectivity, and support. Welcome to a stress-free visit to the Emirates.

If you start your UAE eVisa application without delay, check every detail once again, then you can move comfortably to the next stage which is accessing the wonders of the ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌UAE.

FAQs

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Who is eligible to get an eVisa in the UAE?

E-visa applications can be submitted online by citizens of most countries for tourism, business, or work purposes.

What documents do I need to submit to be eligible for a UAE eVisa?

A valid passport, photo, travel proof, accommodation, and financial documents are required.

How long will it take before my UAE eVisa is ready?

The standard processing time is between 3 and 9 working days, and it only takes 1 to 3 days with the express service.

Are UAE eVisas available for an extension after a physical landing?

Definitely, the majority of short-term UAE eVisas can be extended upon approval obtained before the expiration date.

What are the steps needed in filing a UAE eVisa application?

Choosing a visa type, completing an online form, uploading documents, making a payment and submitting the application are the steps in the ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌process.