If you are visiting the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on a visit visa sponsored by a family member or friend who is a UAE resident, you have the opportunity to extend your visa for up to 90 days. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) introduced this option on February 15, 2023. The extension duration varies depending on the type of visa you hold, with a 30-day extension available for tourist visas.
Where to Apply for a 90-day Visa Extension
If you have a visit visa for Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, or Fujairah, you can apply for the visa extension through the ICP. There are three channels through which you can submit your application:
- ICP Smart Services website: Visit smartservices.icp.gov.ae and log in using your UAE Pass or ICP online account.
- ICP mobile app: Download the ‘UAEICP’ app on your Apple or Android device.
- Authorized typing center: Visit an ICP-approved typing center. You can find a list of these centers on the ICP website.
Required Documents for Visa Extension
To apply for the visit visa extension, you will need the following documents:
- Original copy of the entry permit
- Colored passport photo of the visit visa holder
- Rental contract or hotel reservation details (if staying with the sponsor, provide their rental contract)
- Copy of return ticket
- Copy of previous security deposit receipt
- Emirates ID card copy of the sponsor (front and back)
Additional documents may be required based on the application form.
Application Process through the ICP Website
To apply for the visit visa extension via the ICP Smart Services platform, follow these steps:
- Log in to smartservices.icp.gov.ae using your UAE Pass or ICP online account.
- Select the relevant ICP department for your emirate.
- Search for the service to extend the visit visa.
- Click on ‘Start Service’ and fill in the application with the required documents.
- Pay the service fee using a credit or debit card.
After payment, you will receive a confirmation from ICP. The processing time for the visit visa extension is approximately two to five business days. The extended entry permit will be sent to the email address provided in the application.
Cost of the 90-day Visa Extension
The final cost of the visa extension depends on the application details and includes various fees such as request fees, issue fees, e-service fees, insurance fees, ICP fees, and smart services fees. The estimated total cost is approximately Dh862.
Dubai Visit Visa Extension for Friends and Family
If you want to extend your stay in Dubai, the General Directorate of Foreign Affairs Residency – Dubai (GDRFA) is the authority responsible for approving and issuing the extension.
Application Channels for Dubai Visit Visa Extension
To apply for a visit visa extension in Dubai, you have two options:
- GDRFA smart services platform: Access smart.gdrfad.gov.ae.
- Amer Service centers: Visit Amer centers, which process immigration applications on behalf of GDRFA. You can find a list of Amer centers in Dubai on the GDRFA website.
Extension Period for Dubai Visit Visa
According to GDRFA Dubai, the relevant authority may approve multiple extensions, totaling up to 180 days.
Application Process through the Website
If you already have an existing application for a visit visa extension, follow these steps to apply online:
- Visit smart.gdrfad.gov.ae.
- Log in using your UAE Pass or GDRFA online account.
- Search for the visa extension service on your personal dashboard.
- Fill in the application details.
- Pay the service fee.
Cost of Dubai Visit Visa Extension
The visa extension fee is Dh600 plus five percent Value Added Tax (VAT). Additionally, there are knowledge dirham and innovation dirham fees, as well as a fee for staying inside the country. The total estimated cost is Dh1,120.
Please note that the total visa amount may vary based on individual circumstances or other factors, as specified on the GDRFA website.
