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A digital visa is necessary for all visitors to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, as announced on Monday, October 14, by the UAE’s Digital Government (DGOV).
The initial 30-day validity of the visa is extended for an additional 30-day period.
According to a statement from the DGOV, tourists can apply for an eVisa through either the smart channels of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) or the General Directorate of Residency for Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai.
Important Notes and Conditions for eVisa Applicants
- Your registered email address will get an eVisa notification upon application approval.
- Sponsorship is required for the application to be accepted for GCC expatriate residents and companions traveling with GCC citizens.
- Traveling partners of GCC nationals are eligible for a 60-day entry permit, which allows them to remain for a further 60 days. This permit can be renewed once.
- A residency visa issued by a GCC country will not be accepted upon arrival if it turns out to be expired or revoked.
- It is important to note that if a GCC resident’s occupation changes after their entry permit is issued, they will no longer be given access.
- Additionally, you must be able to live in the GCC for at least one year after your arrival.
- Upon arrival, citizens of the GCC must ensure that their passports are valid for a minimum of six months.
How to Submit Your Application on ICP?
- You need a UAE Pass account to apply for an eVisa online through the ICP portal. If you are visiting the UAE, click here to make a UAE Pass account.
- Use your email address, password, or UAE Pass to log into the ICP smart service.
- Select the emirate you will be visiting in the ICP section.
- Proceed to look for the option that says “Issue an entry permit for residents of the GCC countries.”
- Then, select “Start Service.”
- Fill out the application and send all the required documents.
- Then you’ll get a transaction number that you can use to keep track of your visa application.
Required Documents
- A copy of a passport
- Valid GCC resident visa for at least three months
- Passport-sized, color photograph.
