Family Visitor Visa – UAE

As an NRI living in the UAE, one of the greatest joys is the opportunity to welcome family from India to visit and experience life here—be it for a festive occasion, a child’s graduation, a new home blessing, or simply to reconnect with loved ones. Anyone travelling to the UAE from India for tourism, family visits will typically need a visitor visa. 

This guide is designed to walk you through every step of the UAE non-residence visitor visa application—from understanding the eligibility criteria to submitting the necessary documents—so you can help your loved ones join you here with ease and confidence. 

Types of Visitor visas

  • Tourist Visa (30 or 60 Days): Single or multiple entry. Can be arranged online via licensed travel agents, UAE-based airlines (like Emirates or Etihad), or your hotel. Processing usually takes 3-4 working days. 
  • Visa on Arrival: Eligible nationalities (including eligible Indian nationals with valid US, UK, or EU visas/residence permits) can get a 14-day visa on arrival. 
  • 5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa: A self-sponsored, 5-year multiple-entry visa allowing stays of 90 days per visit (extendable by another 90 days). Requires a $4,000 bank balance over the last six months, health insurance, and return tickets. 

    Key Requirements for the Visitor Visa 

    • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel. 
    • Confirmed return or onward journey ticket. 
    • Recent color passport-sized photograph with a white background. 
    • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking) and sufficient funds. 
    • Health Insurance in UAE. 

    How to Apply? 

    • Tourist Visa (30 or 60 Days) 
      • Contact your airline (e.g., Emirates, Etihad Airways, or Air India/OneVasco) or a registered travel agent. 
      • Fill out the application form, upload your documents, and pay the visa processing fees.  
      • Once approved, the e-Visa will be sent to your email. Print a copy and keep it with your passport when you travel.  
    • 5-Year Multiple Entry Tourist Visa 
      • Apply online via official government online portals – Use the ICP Smart Services https://icp.gov.ae/en/services/  (for all Emirates) or GDRFA Dubai https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en (for Dubai-specific applications) 
      • Fill out the application form, upload your documents, and pay the visa processing fees.  
      • Once approved, the e-Visa will be sent to your email. Print a copy and keep it with your passport when you travel.