The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a global hub for tourism, business, and employment, making it one of the most sought-after destinations for visitors and expatriates alike. Whether you are traveling for a short vacation, seeking long-term residency, or applying for a work permit, understanding the UAE visa application fee structure is crucial. The cost of a visa depends on various factors such as the type of visa, the duration of stay, the number of entries, and the application method.
In this article, we’ll provide a detailed breakdown of UAE visa application fees for different visa types, the factors that affect the cost, and important information to keep in mind when applying for a UAE visa.
Factors Affecting UAE Visa Application Fees
Before diving into the specific fees for each visa type, it’s important to understand the factors that can influence the overall cost of a UAE visa. Some key factors include:
- Visa Type: The visa fee largely depends on the type of visa being applied for, whether it’s a tourist visa, employment visa, residency visa, or investor visa.
- Duration of Stay: Visa fees increase with the duration of the stay. For example, a 90-day visa will cost more than a 30-day visa.
- Single or Multiple Entries: Single-entry visas allow one entry into the UAE, whereas multiple-entry visas allow several entries during the validity period. Multiple-entry visas tend to be more expensive.
- Application Method: Visas can be applied for through various channels, such as online (eVisa system), through a sponsor (such as an employer or family member), or via airlines and travel agencies. Fees may vary slightly depending on the application method.
- Express Processing: If you need your visa application processed urgently, additional fees may be required for express or fast-track services.
- Additional Charges: Some visa types may require additional costs for medical exams, insurance, or document attestation.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
UAE Visa Application Fees by Visa Type
Here’s a breakdown of the visa fees for various categories, providing a clearer understanding of how much you can expect to pay depending on your purpose of travel.
1. UAE Tourist Visa Fees
Tourist visas are the most common type of visa applied for by visitors planning short trips to the UAE. These visas are typically valid for either 30 or 90 days and are available as single-entry or multiple-entry visas.
- 30-Day Single-Entry Tourist Visa:
- Fee: Approximately AED 350 to AED 450 ($95 to $123)
- Validity: Allows the visa holder to stay in the UAE for up to 30 days from the date of entry.
- 90-Day Single-Entry Tourist Visa:
- Fee: Approximately AED 800 to AED 1000 ($218 to $272)
- Validity: Allows the visa holder to stay in the UAE for up to 90 days from the date of entry.
- 30-Day Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa:
- Fee: Approximately AED 800 to AED 900 ($218 to $245)
- Validity: Allows multiple entries into the UAE within a 30-day period.
- 90-Day Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa:
- Fee: Approximately AED 1,900 to AED 2,200 ($517 to $600)
- Validity: Allows multiple entries within a 90-day period.
Tourist visas can be applied for through travel agencies, airlines, or directly online via the official UAE eVisa portal. Fees may vary slightly depending on the service provider.
2. Transit Visa Fees
Transit visas are designed for travelers who are passing through the UAE and need to stay for a short period before catching their connecting flight. These are available for stays of either 48 hours or 96 hours.
- 48-Hour Transit Visa:
- Fee: Free of charge for certain nationalities when sponsored by an airline.
- Validity: 48 hours from entry.
- 96-Hour Transit Visa:
- Fee: Approximately AED 50 to AED 150 ($14 to $41)
- Validity: 96 hours from entry.
Transit visas are usually arranged by airlines and require you to have a confirmed onward ticket. It’s recommended to check with your airline for specific fees and conditions.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
3. Employment Visa Fees
Employment visas allow individuals to work legally in the UAE. These visas are sponsored by employers, and the process involves both an entry permit and a residency visa. The overall cost includes various components such as visa issuance, medical exams, and labor card fees.
- Entry Permit for Employment Visa:
- Fee: AED 250 to AED 450 ($68 to $123) depending on the processing time and company category.
- Validity: Usually valid for 60 days during which the visa holder can enter the UAE to complete the work visa formalities.
- Residency Visa (Linked to Employment):
- Fee: AED 2,000 to AED 7,000 ($545 to $1,900), which includes medical testing fees, Emirates ID processing, and residence visa issuance.
- Validity: 1 to 3 years, depending on the contract and sponsorship type.
The cost of an employment visa is typically covered by the employer. However, individuals should clarify whether any charges will be deducted from their salaries or if the company will bear the entire cost.
4. Investor Visa Fees
The UAE’s investor visa is available for those investing in businesses or real estate within the country. The fee structure for this visa varies based on the nature and size of the investment.
- Investor Visa for Business Setup:
- Fee: AED 2,500 to AED 4,500 ($680 to $1,225), depending on the business type and free zone authority.
- Validity: 3 years.
- Real Estate Investor Visa (Golden Visa):
- Fee: AED 4,000 to AED 6,000 ($1,090 to $1,635) depending on the size of the property investment (minimum investment usually around AED 2 million).
- Validity: 5 to 10 years for long-term investor visas.
Investor visas are ideal for entrepreneurs and those looking to establish a foothold in the UAE business market.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
5. Student Visa Fees
Students who wish to pursue their studies at a UAE-based educational institution must apply for a student visa. This visa is sponsored by the academic institution and usually covers the duration of the study program.
- Student Visa Fee:
- Fee: AED 1,000 to AED 3,000 ($272 to $818), depending on the academic institution and processing time.
- Validity: 1 year, renewable annually for the duration of the study program.
Some universities in the UAE may include the cost of the visa in their tuition fees or offer scholarships that cover the visa application fee.
6. Dependent Visa Fees (Family Sponsorship)
Expatriates residing in the UAE are allowed to sponsor their immediate family members (spouse, children, and in some cases, parents) for residency in the country. The cost of dependent visas varies based on the relationship, duration of the visa, and whether it is for a spouse, child, or parent.
- Spouse and Children Visa:
- Fee: AED 500 to AED 1,200 ($136 to $327) per dependent for a one-year visa.
- Validity: 1 to 3 years, renewable.
- Parent Sponsorship Visa:
- Fee: AED 2,000 to AED 3,000 ($545 to $818) depending on the residency status of the sponsor and the duration of the visa.
- Validity: 1 to 2 years.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
7. Golden Visa Fees
The UAE introduced the Golden Visa to offer long-term residency to investors, entrepreneurs, talented professionals, and outstanding students. Golden Visa holders enjoy residency benefits without needing a sponsor.
- Golden Visa Fee:
- Fee: AED 4,000 to AED 6,000 ($1,090 to $1,635), depending on the type of Golden Visa (5 or 10 years).
- Validity: 5 to 10 years, renewable.
The Golden Visa offers significant advantages, including the ability to sponsor family members and stay in the UAE without a local sponsor.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
How to Pay UAE Visa Application Fees
Visa application fees can be paid through various channels depending on the method of application:
- Online (eVisa): If you’re applying online, fees can be paid via credit card or other approved digital payment methods.
- Through Sponsors: For employment or family sponsorship visas, fees are typically paid by the employer or sponsor, though in some cases, individuals may need to reimburse the sponsor.
- Travel Agencies/Airlines: If applying through a travel agency or airline, fees can be paid directly to the service provider.
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
Refund Policy for UAE Visa Fees
In most cases, UAE visa application fees are non-refundable once the application is processed, even if the visa is denied or if the applicant withdraws their application. It’s essential to ensure all documents are accurate and that the visa category matches your travel plans to avoid rejection or delays.
The cost of a UAE visa varies depending on the visa type, duration of stay, and whether it’s a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. It’s important to understand the different fee structures for tourist visas, employment visas, investor visas, student visas, and dependent visas before applying. Additionally, applicants
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