Dubai is one of the world’s top travel destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. Whether you are in the city for tourism, business, or visiting family, you may find yourself wanting to extend your Dubai Visit Visa to explore more or complete pending tasks. Fortunately, the UAE government provides flexible options for visa extensions to ensure a hassle-free stay.
Understanding the Dubai Visit Visa extension process is crucial to avoid overstaying fines and ensure compliance with UAE immigration laws. This guide explains the step-by-step process of extending your visa, the eligibility criteria, extension types, costs, and important regulations to follow.
Understanding Dubai Visit Visa Extensions
A Dubai Visit Visa is a temporary visa issued to travelers who wish to stay in the UAE for a specific period. Visitors can apply for an extension if they meet the required conditions set by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Visa extensions allow visitors to extend their stay without exiting the country, making it convenient for tourists, job seekers, and business travelers who need additional time in Dubai. Depending on the visa type, extensions can be applied online or through immigration centers.
Who Can Apply for a Dubai Visit Visa Extension?
Not all visitors qualify for an extension. To be eligible for a Dubai Visit Visa extension, the applicant must:
- Hold a valid tourist or visit visa issued by UAE immigration authorities.
- Apply before the visa expiry date to avoid overstaying penalties.
- Have a valid passport with at least six months of validity.
- Meet the UAE’s visa extension rules based on their visa type.
Those holding special entry permits, GCC resident visas, or on-arrival visas for specific nationalities may have different extension rules.
Types of Dubai Visit Visa Extensions
Visitors looking to extend their Dubai Visit Visa have multiple options depending on their visa type. Extensions include a 30-day visa extension, a 60-day extension, or a 90-day extension for long-term stays. Travelers on a visa-on-arrival can also apply for an extension, while some may opt for a visa change without exit.
30-Day Visa Extension for Tourist Visas
Most visitors holding a 30-day Dubai Visit Visa are eligible for a 30-day extension twice, allowing a maximum stay of 90 days. The extension can be applied online or through immigration centers without leaving the UAE.
60-Day Visit Visa Extension
Some travelers receive a 60-day Visit Visa, which can also be extended for another 30 or 60 days, depending on the original visa type. This extension is useful for individuals visiting Dubai for job searches or long-term tourism.
90-Day Visit Visa Extension
For visitors holding a 90-day Dubai Visit Visa, an extension of an additional 30 or 60 days can be granted under special circumstances. This extension is ideal for family visitors, medical treatments, or long-term business engagements.
On-Arrival Visa Extension
Travelers from countries eligible for visa-on-arrival can extend their stay by applying for a 30-day extension through the immigration portal or airline services. The extension must be requested before the initial 30-day period expires.
UAE Visa Change Without Exit
This extension method allows visitors to convert their Dubai Visit Visa into a long-term UAE visa or employment visa without leaving the country. Many people opt for this process if they secure a job offer during their stay.
Step-by-Step Guide to Extending a Dubai Visit Visa
Extending a Dubai Visit Visa requires following a structured process to ensure approval. First, check your visa expiry date and choose the right extension type. Submit an online application through the UAE immigration portal, attach the required documents, pay the extension fee, and wait for approval before your visa expires.
Step 1: Check Visa Expiry Date
Before applying for an extension, verify your visa’s expiration date. The extension application must be submitted before the last day to avoid fines for overstaying.
Step 2: Choose the Right Extension Type
Determine the appropriate Dubai Visit Visa extension based on your visa category. Whether you need a 30-day, 60-day, or visa change without exit, choose the most suitable option.
Step 3: Submit an Online Application
Visitors can apply for an extension through the official UAE immigration portals, airline websites, or travel agencies. The application requires filling out personal details, visa information, and passport details.
Step 4: Attach Required Documents
To complete the visa extension, applicants must submit:
- A copy of their passport (valid for at least six months).
- A passport-sized photograph.
- The current visa copy.
- Proof of travel insurance (if required).
Step 5: Pay the Visa Extension Fees
Once the application is submitted, pay the applicable visa extension fees through online payment portals or designated service centers. The cost varies depending on the visa type and extension duration.
Step 6: Receive Visa Extension Approval
After processing, the UAE authorities will approve the extension request and issue an updated Dubai Visit Visa with the new validity period. The confirmation is usually sent via email or SMS.
Cost of Extending a Dubai Visit Visa
The cost of extending a Dubai Visit Visa depends on the type and duration of the extension. The average fees include:
- 30-Day Extension: AED 600 – AED 900
- 60-Day Extension: AED 1,200 – AED 1,500
- Visa Change Without Exit: AED 1,500 – AED 2,500
Additional service charges may apply if applying through third-party agencies or urgent processing services.
Rules and Regulations for Visa Extensions in Dubai
When applying for a Dubai Visit Visa extension, visitors must follow UAE immigration laws to avoid legal issues or fines. Key regulations include:
- Extensions must be applied before visa expiry to prevent overstaying penalties.
- Overstaying fines start from AED 50 per day after the grace period ends.
- Visitors cannot work on a visit visa; employment requires a work permit or employment visa.
- Some visa categories, such as GCC resident visas, may not be eligible for extensions.
Following these guidelines ensures a smooth and legally compliant stay in Dubai.
Alternatives to Extending a Dubai Visit Visa
If you are not eligible for a Dubai Visit Visa extension, there are alternative options to legally extend your stay:
Visa Run (Airport-to-Airport Visa Change)
Visitors can exit the UAE and re-enter with a new visit visa by taking a short flight to a nearby country such as Oman or Bahrain. This process is commonly known as a visa run and is a quick solution for those seeking a new Dubai Visit Visa.
Exit and Reapply for a New Visa
Another alternative is to exit the UAE and apply for a new tourist visa from your home country or a neighboring country. This method is often used by travelers whose current visa type is not extendable.
Apply for a Residency Visa
If you are planning a long-term stay, you may apply for a residency visa through employment, investment, or family sponsorship. Converting a visit visa into a residency visa allows longer stays without requiring multiple extensions.
Conclusion
Extending a Dubai Visit Visa is a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps and apply before your visa expires. Whether you need a 30-day extension, 60-day extension, or visa change without exit, Dubai offers flexible options to accommodate visitors’ needs.
To ensure a smooth visa extension process, make sure you choose the right extension type, submit all required documents, and comply with UAE immigration laws. Avoid overstaying to prevent fines and legal complications.
If you need assistance with Dubai Visit Visa extensions, we provide expert guidance and visa processing services to help you extend your stay hassle-free. Let us assist you in completing your visa application quickly and efficiently.
