If you are an expatriate residing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and have plans to travel internationally for the upcoming Eid-Al-Adha holidays or your summer vacation, there’s good news for you.
Many countries now offer e-Visa options, eliminating the need to spend time in long queues for passport procedures. These e-Visas provide a streamlined process for UAE expatriates, allowing for quicker verification and smoother travel planning.
e-Visa Options for UAE Expats
The introduction of e-Visas has revolutionized the visa application process, allowing travellers to complete their verification within a few minutes and avoid the hassle of lengthy paperwork and queues. With just a few clicks, UAE expatriates can apply for their visas online, saving time and effort.
In this article, we will explore five countries that provide e-Visa options for UAE expatriates, making your international travel experience more convenient and efficient.
These countries include Saudi Arabia, Japan, Azerbaijan, Oman, and Qatar. By embracing e-Visas, these destinations are making it easier for UAE residents to explore their attractions, visit family and friends, or engage in business activities.
So, if you’re ready to embark on your international journey without the stress of traditional visa procedures, let’s explore the convenient e-Visa options available for UAE expatriates in the countries mentioned below;
1. Saudi Arabia GCC e-Visa
Recently, Saudi Arabia has launched a new e-visa system for visitors from UAE and seven other countries. The system uses QR codes instead of traditional visa stickers and sends visa information to email addresses.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia offers an e-Visa option for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) resident expatriates. This e-Visa allows a stay of up to 90 days in the country. It provides several benefits, such as the opportunity to explore Saudi Arabia, visit family and friends, and perform Umrah throughout the year (excluding the Hajj season).
Visa Validity and Cost
As per the official website of the Saudi Govt, the length of your stay in Saudi Arabia is determined by the type of visa you apply for. The multiple-entry tourist visa is valid for one year from the date of issuance and allows for a 90-day stay. The single-entry tourist visa allows for a 30-day stay and is valid for a set period of time after it is issued.
The approximate cost of a GCC resident e-Visa is 300 Saudi riyals (Dh293.25), which includes a health insurance charge.
2. Japan e-Visa
UAE residents can now avail themselves of a simplified visa process for Japan, thanks to the 90-day e-Visa introduced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. The announcement made in the UAE and Saudi Arabia allows expatriates to apply for a short-term tourist visa through Japan’s official e-Visa platform.
Requirements and Validity
Before applying for the e-Visa, make sure you have valid identification, an Emirates ID, and a UAE residence visa. The e-Visa grants a 90-day stay in Japan and remains valid for three months.
Visa Cost
The visa issuance fee for the e-Visa is 3,000 yen (approximately Dh82). However, some nationalities may be exempt from the fee or receive a subsidy. The standard fee is Dh80, and Indian nationals are required to pay Dh20.
3. Azerbaijan e-Visa On Arrival
For UAE residents planning to travel to Azerbaijan, there are two options available: applying for an e-Visa in advance or obtaining a visa upon arrival. Both visas allow a stay of up to 30 days in the country.
Visa Cost
The cost for either the e-Visa or visa on arrival is Dh140. To apply for the e-Visa, use Azerbaijan’s official online visa portal, where the visa will be issued within three days.
4. Oman e-Visa
Expatriates residing in the UAE can apply for an e-Visa that grants a stay of up to 30 days in Oman. However, it is important to note that only occupations approved by the Royal Oman Police (ROP) are eligible for online visa applications. If your occupation is not eligible, you will need to apply for a sponsored tourist visa through an unauthorized travel agency.
Visa Cost
The cost of a 30-day visit visa for Oman is Omani Rial 5 (equivalent to Dh47.50).
5. Qatar e-Visa
Qatar has opened its doors to all UAE expatriates, regardless of their profession. You can now apply for a Qatar e-Visa through their online Hayya portal, allowing a stay of up to 30 days in the country.
Visa Cost
The visa fee for a Qatar e-Visa is QAR100 (approximately Dh100.49). Once your visa application is approved, you will need to pay the fee, which is non-refundable.
Bottomline
The introduction of e-Visa options for UAE expats has expedited and simplified the process of acquiring visas for foreign travel. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Japan, Azerbaijan, Oman, and Qatar now provide e-Visas, making it easier for UAE residents to visit these places.
E-Visas have made foreign trip planning more effective and hassle-free for UAE expatriates by eliminating the need to stand in long lines and providing a faster verification procedure. Before applying, make sure to review the exact requirements and charges associated with each e-Visa to ensure a seamless and happy travel experience.
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