UAE Expands Visa on Arrival for Indian Nationals with Residence Permits from Six New Countries

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expanded its visa-on-arrival program for Indian nationals, allowing those with valid visas, residence permits, or Green Cards from six new countries to access visa-on-arrival facilities at UAE entry points. The new countries included in the list are Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. This move is expected to increase opportunities for Indian passport holders to enter the UAE, simplifying travel and providing new opportunities for exploring life, residency, and employment in the country.

Indian nationals must meet the UAE's requirements for the program, including holding a valid passport with at least six months of validity and a valid visa, residence permit, or Green Card from one of the specified countries. The UAE has established three visa categories for Indian travelers, each with a low related fee. A 4-day visa costs AED100, while a 14-day extension costs AED250. There is also a 60-day visa, which costs AED250. The initiative aims to facilitate smoother travel for Indian citizens, offering them and their families new opportunities to explore life, residency, and employment prospects in the UAE.

The expansion of the visa-on-arrival program is part of the UAE's efforts to strengthen travel and business relations between India and the UAE. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) confirmed the expansion, emphasizing its goal of making travel to the UAE more accessible. The move is also expected to attract top global talent and entrepreneurs, further solidifying the UAE's status as a global financial, tourism, and economic hub. The visa on arrival facility can be availed by flying to the UAE, showing a valid Indian passport and residency permit from one of the eligible countries, and getting the visa stamped on arrival at any UAE entry point.

The UAE's decision to expand the visa-on-arrival program is a significant development for Indian nationals, providing them with more opportunities to travel to the country for business, tourism, or employment. The move is also expected to boost trade and investment between India and the UAE, with the two countries having a long-term strategic partnership. The initiative gives Indians an opportunity to experience UAE's world-class tourism, economic landscape, and dynamic business environment, making it an attractive destination for travelers and investors alike.

In terms of the application process, Indian nationals can avail the visa-on-arrival facility by meeting the eligibility criteria and paying the applicable fees. The following are the key points to note: * Valid passport with at least six months of validity * Valid visa, residence permit, or Green Card from one of the specified countries * Payment of visa fees, which include AED100 for a 4-day visa, AED250 for a 14-day extension, and AED250 for a 60-day visa * The visa-on-arrival facility can be availed at any UAE entry point, including Dubai International Airport and Dubai World Central. With the expansion of the visa-on-arrival program, the UAE is expected to become a more popular destination for Indian travelers, with its world-class infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and attractive tourism options.