Ways to Extend UAE Visit Visa or Tourist Visa

Many visitors wish to extend their stay in the UAE by getting a visa extension, which enables them to stay for more days without leaving the country. Many visitors are unaware that there are several options for extending their visa. What works well for one person might not be as convenient for another. That is why you must be aware of these multiple methods of visa extension. In this article, we are going to make it easy for you by discussing the different ways of extending your visa so you can decide which one is convenient for you,

Why You Need a Visa Extension in UAE

UAE has strict visa and immigration policies. Therefore, you should not overstay your visa once it has expired or is near expiry. Moreover, the government of UAE has abolished the grace period on all visit/tourist visas due to which you need to extend your visa before it expires. If you don't extend it well in time, you may face hefty fines and other legal issues. This is something you would want to avoid at all costs.

Fees Associated with Visa Extension in UAE

Once you enter Dubai, you can extend your 30-day visa up to two times. Each extension costs AED 1100.

Ways to Extend UAE Visit Visa or Tourist Visa

Mainly there are three ways to extend your visa in UAE. These are:

a. GDRFA Website

This is the most convenient way to extend your visa. You can do it in the following steps:

• Visit the website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA).
• Submit your application with the required documents.
• Pay any necessary fees online.
• You will be notified through text/email once your visa is processed. This method is easy for tech-savvy individuals who prefer to handle the application process independently.

b. Through Your Visa Sponsor

When your visa is sponsored by a company or individual in the UAE, they are typically responsible for managing it and ensuring its validity. This includes assisting with visa extensions. Your sponsor can provide the necessary documents, application forms, and instructions for extending your visa. Documentation Additionally, they may be able to help you gather the required documents, such as proof of employment or funds. Moreover, in some cases, your sponsor may be able to pay the extension fees on your behalf. This is best for those sponsored by a company or individual in the UAE. It can save time and effort, as your sponsor can handle many aspects of the extension process.

c. Tourist Agency

This method may be easiest for many people but might be slightly costly. Here, the tourist agency manages and handles the visa extension process after you provide them with essential documents. Extending your visa through a tourist agency is ideal for those who either lack basic know-how or lack time. Remember that the agency will also charge its service fee, so you must pay a little more than the actual visa fee.

Documents Required for Visa Extension

• Passport with valid UAE entry stamp
• Current visa copy
• Passport-sized photographs
• Proof of travel insurance
• Proof of sufficient funds

Tips for a Smooth Extension Process

Gather all the documents required for a visa extension at least one week before your visa expires. Their digital copy should always be on your mobile phone with you.

• If you need an extension, start the process before your visa expires.
• You must check your visa status frequently to check your visa status once in a while.
• Keep yourself updated on the latest rules and policies regarding visas.
• Use reminder apps on your phone to alert you when your visa is about to expire.

Related: What Are The New Rules For Dubai Visit Visa 2024?

Overstaying Your Visa May Lead to Severe Consequences

Overstaying your visa in Dubai or elsewhere can lead to severe issues: Large Fines You’ll be charged around AED 50 per day for overstaying, and these fines can quickly add up. Future Visa Challenges Overstaying your visa may make it harder to get visas for other countries later. Therefore, it’s crucial to extend your visa before it expires. Possible Travel Ban You might face a temporary ban from re-entering the country, which can disrupt your plans if you intend to return. Legal Consequences A significant overstay could lead to legal action, including arrest, deportation, or brief detention.

Conclusion

It is important for you to properly understand your visa extension. Given the strictness of the UAE’s visa policy, this knowledge always comes in handy. Which method of visa extension suits you best depends on your circumstances and personal preferences. Nonetheless, you must stay updated about such practices to enjoy a care-free stay in the UAE.

1. What are the ways to extend a UAE visit or tourist visa?

You can extend your visa online, through a travel agency, or at a local immigration office.

2. How much does it cost to extend a 30-day visa in Dubai?

Each 30-day visa extension costs AED 1100.

3. What happens if you overstay a UAE visa?

You may face daily fines, future visa issues, a travel ban, or legal action.