Visa waiver set for UAE citizens

IMPACT- MEDIUM

What is the change? Japan has implemented a visa waiver for United Arab Emirates citizens who preregister their e-passports with the Japanese Embassy or a consulate.

What does the change mean? Once a passport is registered, a “Visa Waiver Registration” seal will be attached to it, enabling the individual to travel to Japan without a visa for stays of up to 30 days for business or leisure. The registration stamp is valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever occurs first.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate. The program was implemented July 1.  
• Visas/permits affected: Visa waivers.
• Who is affected: UAE citizens holding e-passports and traveling to Japan for business or leisure for up to 30 days.
• Impact on processing times: Preregistration takes about two business days; the applicant’s passport is returned the following day.
• Business impact: Business travelers making short trips and conducting appropriate non-work activities are permitted to use the visa waiver.

Background: The visa waiver agreement was announced in April and was implemented in July to improve business, trade and tourism between the two countries.

BAL Analysis: The visa waiver is intended to boost tourism and business travel. Travelers are reminded that work activities are prohibited on a visa waiver and instead require applying for and obtaining an appropriate work permit.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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