What is the Complete Visa Procedure for UAE in 2025?

Key Takeaways

• UAE visa regulations are governed by Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) and GDRFA
• Employment visa processing typically takes 2-3 weeks after all documents are submitted
• Visa costs in the UAE vary based on visa type, duration, and emirate of application

Key Takeaway: The UAE visa procedure in 2025 offers multiple pathways including tourist visas (30-90 days), employment visas (2 years), Green visas (5 years self-sponsored), and Golden visas (10 years). Applications can be submitted online through official portals, airlines, hotels, or travel agencies with processing times ranging from 3-14 days depending on visa type.Planning to visit or work in

the UAE? Understanding the complete visa procedure is essential for a smooth application process. The UAE has streamlined its visa system in 2025, offering various visa types to accommodate different purposes of visit, from short-term tourism to long-term residence.The UAE visa system operates through two main authorities: ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security)

for all emirates except Dubai, and GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) specifically for Dubai visas.What Types of UAE Visas Are Available in 2025?Tourist and Visit Visas30-Day Tourist Visa:Single or multiple entry optionsProcessing time: 3-4 working daysFee: AED 200 plus 5% VATExtendable twice for 30 days each60-Day Tourist Visa:Enhanced stay durationFee: AED 300 plus 5%

VATIdeal for longer vacations90-Day Tourist Visa:Extended stay for comprehensive visitsMultiple entry options availableCan be extended for additional 90 days5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa:Stay up to 90 days per visitTotal annual stay up to 180 daysFee: AED 500 plus additional chargesBank statement showing USD 4,000 balance requiredEmployment VisasStandard Employment Visa (2 Years):Sponsored by

UAE employerValid for 24 months with renewal optionProcessing time: 10-15 working daysIncludes work permit and residence visaGreen Visa (5 Years):Self-sponsored residence visaNo employer sponsorship requiredMinimum salary: AED 15,000 per monthBachelor's degree or equivalent requiredAnnual income proof: AED 360,000 for freelancersGolden Visa (10 Years):Long-term residence for exceptional talentsNo

local sponsor requiredAvailable for investors, doctors, scientists, artistsUnlimited time outside UAE allowedSpecialty VisasJob Seeker Visa:60, 90, or 120-day validity optionsFor graduates from top 500 universitiesNo sponsorship requiredAllows job hunting in UAETransit Visa:48-hour or 96-hour optionsFor travellers passing through UAEAirport transit or short city visitsMedical Treatment Visa:Sponsored

by medical institutionsDuration based on treatment requirementsRequires medical documentationHow Do I Apply for a UAE Tourist Visa?Application Channels:1. Online Through Official Portals:Visit ICP Smart Services (smartservices.icp.gov.ae) for all emirates except DubaiUse GDRFA Dubai portal (gdrfad.gov.ae) for Dubai visasCreate secure account and complete online application2. Through Airlines:Emirates,

Etihad, and other UAE carriersApply during flight booking processDirect processing with immigration authorities3. Through Hotels:UAE-registered hotels can sponsor tourist visasSubmit appli...

About This Article

This article provides general information about UAE labour law and employment regulations. The information is based on Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 and subsequent amendments. For specific legal advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified legal professional or contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).