Visiting Dubai is an experience that many people around the globe dream of. With its stunning architecture, cosmopolitan lifestyle, and cultural diversity, Dubai has something for everyone. However, as with all good things, visits to Dubai come with an expiration date – your visa. But what if you want to extend your stay, maybe because you’ve fallen in love with the city’s charm, or perhaps there’s more business to attend to? This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information on how to extend your Dubai visit visa.
Visitors to Dubai are granted a visit visa upon arrival, which allows them to stay in the UAE for a specified period. This duration depends on the type of visa you have. However, circumstances may arise that require you to extend your stay beyond the original visa validity. This could be due to personal reasons, such as wanting to spend more time with family or friends, or professional reasons, such as extending business negotiations or project timelines. In such cases, understanding how to properly extend your visa becomes crucial.
New Rules for UAE Visit Visa Extension in 2023
The UAE government has implemented new rules for visit visa extensions in 2023. According to these rules, travelers can now extend their visit visas for 30 and 60 days from within the country. This extension can be done twice, each time for an additional 30 days. However, the maximum number of days one can stay in the UAE in a year is capped at 120 days, so you cannot extend your visa beyond this period. Keep in mind that it’s essential to plan your extension well ahead of your visa’s expiry date to avoid any legal complications.
Types of Visit Visa in the UAE
30-day Tourist Visa
A 30-day tourist visa is perfect for short trips to the UAE. Whether you’re planning a quick business trip or a brief holiday, this visa will cover your needs. It’s valid for 58 days from the date of issue and allows you to stay in the UAE for up to 30 days. If required, this visa can be extended twice, each time for an additional 30 days.
90-day Tourist Visa
If you’re planning a longer stay in the UAE, the 90-day tourist visa might be more suitable for you. This visa is ideal for people visiting family or friends in the UAE or those who plan to stay longer for business purposes. It’s valid for 58 days from the date of issue and allows you to stay in the UAE for up to 90 days. Just like the 30-day visa, this one can also be extended twice, each time for an additional 30 days.
Long-term single-entry tourist visa
The long-term single-entry tourist visa is designed for visitors who plan to stay in the UAE for an extended period. This visa allows a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for 58 days from the date of issue. Unlike the other types, this visa cannot be extended.
Long-term multiple-entry tourist visa
If you’re a frequent visitor to the UAE, the long-term multiple-entry tourist visa might be the best option for you. This visa allows multiple entries into the UAE over a 5-year period, with each stay not exceeding 90 days. It provides the flexibility of entering and exiting the UAE multiple times without having to apply for a new visa each time.
How to Extend Visitor Visa Upon Arrival (Physical Process)
Locating nearest Customer Happiness Center
The first step in physically extending your visitor visa is to locate the nearest Customer Happiness Center in the UAE. These centers are established by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and are located across the country. You can find the nearest center by using the GDRFA’s online portal or mobile app.
Obtaining The Automated Turn Ticket
Once you reach the Customer Happiness Center, you need to obtain an automated turn ticket. This ticket will determine your turn in the queue. Ensure that you keep the ticket safe as you’ll need to present it at the service counter.
Submitting Application and Necessary Documents
When your turn comes, you’ll be asked to submit your application along with the necessary documents at the service counter. These documents typically include your passport, current visa, and any other relevant documentation, depending on your situation. For instance, if you’re working in the UAE, you’ll need to provide your employment contract or a letter from your employer.
Paying the Service Fee
After submitting your application and documents, you’ll need to pay the service fee. This fee varies depending on the type of visa extension you’re applying for. Remember that the fee must be paid in UAE Dirham (AED).
How to Extend a Visitor Visa Upon Arrival (Online Process)
Logging into the Smart Services System
If you prefer to extend your visa online, you can do so through the UAE government’s e-services portal. To start, you’ll need to log in to the Smart Services system using your Emirates ID and password.
Searching for the Desired Service
Once you’re logged in, use the search bar to find the ‘Visa Extension’ service. Select it to start the process.
Filling in the Application Data
After selecting the service, you’ll be directed to an online form. Fill in all the required fields. These may include a copy of your passport, existing visa, and any supporting documentation related to your extension request.
Paying the Service Fee
Once you’ve completed the application, the final step is to pay the service fee. The amount will depend on the type of visa extension you’re applying for. The payment can be made using a credit or debit card.
Pricing Details for Visa Extension
1 Month Visa Extension Price
The cost of extending your Dubai visit visa for an additional month can vary based on several factors, including the type of visa and your nationality. On average, expect to pay between AED 600 to AED 2000 for a one-month extension.
Other Visa Extension Prices
The price for a two-year work visa ranges from AED 3000 to AED 7000, depending on whether you’re skilled or unskilled. For foreign workers above 65 years old, the fee is set at AED 5000 across all categories. It’s important to note that these prices are subject to change and may differ based on various circumstances.
Special Cases and Exceptions for Visa Extensions
Free Visas for Children Under 18 During Certain Periods
In a bid to promote family tourism, the UAE government occasionally waives visa fees for children under 18 traveling with their parents during specific periods. This exemption applies to tourists of all nationalities and can significantly reduce the overall cost of your family holiday.
Visa Options for Women Under 18
Women under the age of 18 can apply for a Cultural Golden visa if they are creative professionals such as artists, singers, dancers, musicians, performers, and curators. There are no educational, work, salary, or professional level limits. However, they must present a letter of recommendation from the Ministry of Culture and Youth (MCY) and be in the country during the application process.
Visa Options Provided by Airlines
Some airlines offer unique visa options for their passengers. For example, Emirates and Etihad Airways provide a ‘visa on arrival’ service for citizens of certain countries. This service can be particularly beneficial for frequent travelers who want to avoid the hassle of applying for a visa each time they visit the UAE.
Role of Amer Centre in Visa Extension
How to Approach Amer Centre for Visa Extension
If you wish to extend your visa through the Amer Centre, you can approach any of their branches across the UAE. You can make an appointment via their website or simply walk into the center. Be sure to bring along all the necessary documents for a smooth and swift process.
Services Provided by Amer Centre
The Amer Centre provides a wide range of services related to visa and immigration matters. They can assist with visa applications, renewals, extensions, and cancellations. They also offer other services such as entry permit services, medical test applications, and Emirates ID services.
Visa processing Experience at Amer Centre
Many visitors have found the visa processing experience at the Amer Centre to be efficient and straightforward. The staff is knowledgeable and ready to answer any queries you may have. They guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that your application is correctly filled out and submitted.
Conclusion
Extending your Dubai visit visa is a straightforward process, whether you choose to do it physically or online. Remember, the key to a hassle-free extension lies in planning ahead, understanding the new rules, and having all your documents ready. Always ensure to extend your visa before its expiry date to avoid any legal issues or fines. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now well-equipped to extend your stay in the beautiful city of Dubai smoothly. Happy traveling!