Quick Answer: Planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates requires more than booking flights and accommodation. Before travelling, visitors need to understand the UAE entry visa requirements, check their eligibility, and prepare the necessary documents. The right visa depends on factors such as nationality, passport validity, existing visas or residence permits, and the intended length of stay.
In 2026, eligible nationals of certain countries can apply for special 14-day and 60-day UAE entry visas if they meet the relevant conditions. These options can make short visits and longer stays more convenient for qualifying travellers. However, the requirements, fees, and extension rules differ between the two categories.
This guide explains the eligibility criteria, documents, fees, application process, and extension rules for the UAE 14-day entry visa and UAE 60-day entry visa.
What are the UAE Entry Visa Requirements?
The UAE offers special 14-day and 60-day entry visa options to eligible nationals of India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa who meet the applicable overseas visa or residence requirements.
Applicants generally need an ordinary passport valid for at least six months, a qualifying visa or residence document, and a recent personal photograph. The 14-day visa can be extended once for another 14 days, while the special 60-day visa is non-extendable.
These are specific visa categories, not general entry rules for every traveller. Other nationalities may qualify for visa-free entry, a visa on arrival, or a different type of entry permit.
What are the UAE Entry Visa Requirements in 2026?
The UAE entry requirements depend on your nationality and the type of visa you intend to use. Some visitors can enter without arranging a visa in advance, while others must obtain an entry permit before travelling.
For the special 14-day and 60-day visa categories, applicants must meet the nationality and overseas documentation criteria established by the relevant UAE immigration authority.
The main requirements include:
- Eligible nationality: Applicants must hold an ordinary passport from one of the nationalities covered by the special scheme.
- Passport validity: The passport must generally remain valid for at least six months.
- Valid overseas documentation: Applicants must hold the qualifying visa, residence permit, or Green Card specified for their nationality.
- Personal photograph: A recent photograph must be submitted with the application.
- Correct visa category: Applicants must select the visa that matches their eligibility and intended length of stay.
- Approval before travel: Travellers should confirm that their entry permit has been approved and is valid for their intended journey.
Meeting these requirements does not automatically guarantee approval. The authorities may review the documents and application details before issuing an entry permit.
UAE 14-Day Entry Visa: Eligibility and Requirements
The UAE 14-day entry visa is designed for eligible visitors who meet the special scheme’s nationality and overseas documentation requirements. It allows qualifying travellers to stay in the country for a short period without applying for a different visa category.
Who Is Eligible for the 14-Day UAE Entry Visa?
Eligible applicants must be nationals of a country included in the scheme and hold the required valid overseas visa or residence document.
The eligible nationalities include:
- India
- Indonesia
- Vietnam
- Thailand
- The Philippines
- Kenya
- South Africa
The exact overseas documentation accepted depends on the applicable eligibility conditions. For example, the scheme recognises qualifying documentation issued by the United States, the United Kingdom, or a European Union member state, as well as residence permits issued by certain other approved countries, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea.
Applicants should check the current requirements for their nationality before submitting an application.
How Long Can You Stay?
The 14-day visa permits a stay of up to 14 days from the date of entry, subject to the conditions printed on the issued visa.
The visa can be extended once for an additional 14 days if the applicant meets the extension requirements and receives approval. Travellers should apply through the appropriate channel and avoid assuming that an extension is automatic.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- A valid ordinary passport
- A recent personal photograph
- A copy of the qualifying overseas visa or residence permit, or Green Card where applicable
- Any additional documents requested during the application process
Ensure that all documents are clear, legible, and valid when the application is submitted.
UAE 60-Day Entry Visa: Eligibility and Requirements
The UAE 60-day entry visa provides eligible visitors with a longer stay than the 14-day option. It is intended for applicants who meet the same general nationality and overseas documentation framework, subject to the specific conditions of this visa category.
Who Can Apply for the 60-Day Visa?
Applicants must hold an ordinary passport from an eligible country and meet the applicable overseas visa or residence requirements.
The eligible nationalities are India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa. Applicants must also provide the supporting documents required by the relevant immigration authority.
Eligibility should be checked before applying because holding a passport from an eligible country alone may not be sufficient.
How Long Is the Visa Valid?
The special 60-day visa allows the holder to stay in the UAE for up to 60 days from the date of entry, subject to the issued visa’s conditions.
Important: This visa is non-extendable. Travellers must leave the UAE before the permitted stay expires unless they have obtained another lawful immigration status through an appropriate process.
Documents Required
The typical documents required for the 60-day visa include:
- A passport valid for at least six months
- A recent personal photograph
- A copy of the qualifying overseas visa, residence permit, or Green Card where applicable
- Any additional documents requested by the immigration authority
Applicants should verify the current checklist before submitting their documents.
Difference Between the UAE 14-Day and 60-Day Entry Visas
Although both visa categories serve eligible travellers, they differ in the length of stay and extension rules.
Requirement | 14-Day Entry Visa | 60-Day Entry Visa |
Eligible nationalities | Specified eligible countries | Specified eligible countries |
Permitted stay | Up to 14 days | Up to 60 days |
Passport validity | Generally at least six months | Generally at least six months |
Overseas documentation | Required under the scheme | Required under the scheme |
Extension | May be extended once for the same period | Non-extendable |
Personal photograph | Required | Required |
Application approval | Required | Required |
The 14-day visa may suit a short visit, while the 60-day option can be more appropriate for eligible visitors who need additional time in the UAE. Applicants should compare the conditions carefully before choosing a category.
UAE Entry Visa Fees in 2026
The cost of a UAE entry visa depends on the visa category and the applicable service charges. For the special visa categories covered in this guide, the published fee schedule lists an issuance fee of AED 100 for the 14-day visa and AED 250 for the 60-day visa.
Additional smart service charges may apply. The total payable amount can therefore be higher than the issuance fee alone.
Visa category | Published issuance fee |
14-day entry visa | AED 100 |
60-day entry visa | AED 250 |
Other expenses may include document preparation, typing services, insurance where required, or charges associated with an eligible extension.
Fees and service charges can change. Confirm the final amount through the official application channel before making payment.
How to Apply for a UAE Entry Visa
Applicants can use official online channels or eligible service centres to submit an entry permit application. The appropriate route depends on the visa category and the authority responsible for processing the application.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Confirm your nationality, passport validity, and overseas visa or residence status. Make sure you qualify for the specific 14-day or 60-day visa before beginning the application.
Step 2: Select the Correct Visa Category
Choose the visa that matches your eligibility and intended length of stay. Review the permitted duration and extension conditions carefully.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Gather your passport, photograph, and qualifying overseas documentation. Check that the details are accurate and the documents are still valid.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Applications may be submitted through the ICP Smart Services website or app, the GDRFA Dubai website for relevant Dubai services, or an authorised typing centre where the service is available.
Step 5: Pay the Applicable Fees
Review the charges displayed during the application process and complete payment through the approved channel.
Step 6: Wait for the Decision
The immigration authority will review the application. Check the status and follow any instructions if additional information is required. Do not assume that submitting an application means the visa has been approved.
UAE Visa Extension Rules
Understanding the extension rules is essential when planning your stay. Overstaying can result in fines and other immigration complications.
Can You Extend a 14-Day UAE Entry Visa?
The special 14-day visa may be extended once for an additional 14 days, subject to the applicable rules and approval. Applicants should confirm the extension procedure, fee, and deadline before their original permitted stay expires.
Can You Extend a 60-Day UAE Entry Visa?
No. The special 60-day entry visa described in this guide is non-extendable. Holders should plan their departure before the authorised stay ends.
Other UAE visit visa categories may have different extension conditions, so do not assume that the rules for one visa apply to another.
What Happens If You Overstay?
An overstay fine of AED 50 per day applies under the published conditions for these special visa categories. Additional consequences may depend on the circumstances and applicable immigration rules.
To avoid problems, check the expiry date on your entry permit, allow enough time to arrange travel, and confirm any permitted extension before the authorised stay ends.
Where Can You Apply for a UAE Entry Visa?
UAE entry permits can be processed through several official channels, depending on the emirate and the type of visa.
Common channels include:
- ICP Smart Services: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security provides online visa services for eligible applications.
- GDRFA Dubai: Applicants using services administered by Dubai’s immigration authority can check the relevant online application options.
- Authorised typing centres: Registered centres may help applicants prepare and submit applications for services they handle.
- Approved sponsors or service providers: Some visa categories require a sponsor or an authorised provider to submit the application.
Before choosing a channel, verify that it handles the visa category you need. Using an authorised service does not guarantee approval, and applicants remain responsible for providing accurate information.
How QSM Typing Services in Dubai Can Help
Preparing a visa application can be confusing when you need to confirm eligibility, organise documents, or understand the submission process.
QSM Typing Services in Dubai can assist customers with eligible typing and documentation services available through its centre. Before proceeding, confirm whether the centre handles your specific entry permit category and what documents are required.
Applicants should keep their passport details, photographs, and supporting visa or residence documents ready. They should also check the applicable fees, processing requirements, and approval status through the relevant authority.
For immigration matters, always rely on the current requirements issued by the UAE authorities. Requirements may differ according to nationality, visa category, and individual circumstances.
Conclusion
Understanding the UAE entry visa requirements before travelling can help you choose the correct visa, prepare the necessary documents, and avoid unexpected delays. The special 14-day and 60-day entry visa categories are available to eligible nationals of India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa who meet the relevant overseas documentation conditions.
The 14-day visa may be extended once for the same duration, while the special 60-day visa cannot be extended. Both categories have specific eligibility criteria, passport requirements, fees, and application procedures.
Before applying, confirm your eligibility and the latest requirements through the appropriate UAE immigration authority. If you need help preparing your application documents, contact QSM Typing Services in Dubai to check which relevant services are available.
