UAE moves toward visas on arrival for Indian nationals holding U.S. green cards, visas

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? United Arab Emirates authorities have announced that Indian nationals holding U.S. green cards or visas that are valid for at least six months will soon be permitted to enter the UAE without first obtaining a UAE entry visa.

What does the change mean? Once the program is implemented, eligible Indian nationals will be able to travel to the UAE for business or tourism purposes and obtain a visa on arrival that is good for up to 14 days and renewable once in country.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing. The visa-on-arrival agreement was signed Wednesday, but immigration authorities have not fully implemented it yet.
• Visas/permits affected: Visas on arrival.
• Who is affected: Indian nationals holding U.S. green cards or visas valid for at least six months.
• Impact on processing times: The change will save eligible Indian travelers the time it takes to obtain a visa before traveling.

Background: Under the new program, eligible Indian nationals will be allowed to remain in the UAE for up to 14 days on a visa on arrival. Those who intend to stay longer than 14 days may obtain an extension for a charge.

BAL Analysis: The change will simplify the visa process for eligible Indian nationals traveling for business or as tourists to the UAE. Because the agreement has not been fully implemented, however, eligible Indian nationals should check with BAL before traveling to the UAE in anticipation of receiving a visa on arrival.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in the United Arab Emirates. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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