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In this guide for expats and visitors, we take a look at how and where you can extend your stay without leaving the UAE
6 June 2021
| Last updated on 10 June 2021
Not quite ready to leave the UAE yet? Don't worry! Whether you want to extend your stay for tourism, job-seeking, or to spend more time with family and friends in the UAE, here's what you need to know about prolonging your visit.
If you have asked yourself the question,"Can I extend my visit visa without leaving the UAE?", read our guide for all the details.
Can I renew my visit visa without leaving the UAE?
Yes, you can extend or renew your visit visa from within the UAE.
According to the UAE government's official portal, visit visas can be issued for 30 days or 90 days, for single or multiple entries.
But regardless of which one you have, all visit and tourist visas to the UAE can be extended for 30 days without having to leave the country. This is subject to approval by the relevant authority.
How many times can I extend my UAE visit visa?
You can renew your UAE visit visa from within the country twice, subject to approval.
What happens if I overstay?
According to Article 12 of the Federal Law No. 6 of 1973 Concerning Immigration and Residence as amended by virtue of Law 7 of 1985, Law 13 of 1996 and Federal Decree Law No. 17 of 2017, "Any foreigner entering the Country with visit visa or permission shall have to leave the Country on the expiry date of such visa or permission either through cancellation or expiry period thereof - unless he has obtained a residence license."
Overstaying will land you an AED 100 fine per day, which will be calculated from 10 days after the visa expires.
Overstaying due to Covid-19
In 2020, travel restrictions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic caused many travellers on a temporary visa to overstay.
The UAE government responded by extending all tourist visas' grace period until December 31, 2020 with no fines. Visitors were required to coordinate with their countries' embassy to manage their departure out of the UAE.
How to extend your UAE visit visa
If you wish to apply for your tourist or visit visa renewal, you will need to do so before its expiry. Here is our quick guide on how.
Where to apply for UAE visit visa renewal without leaving the country
You can send your application in any of the following channels:
- The Smart Services eChannels portal, here.
- The official GDRFA Dubai website, here.
- The GDRFA Dubai app, available on Google Play and the App Store.
- The ICA UAE Smart app, available on Google Play and the App Store.
- The Dubai Now app, available on Google Play and the App Store.
- Licensed typing centres in the UAE where visa application is typed and processed through the GDRFA of the respective emirate.
- At any Amer centre in Dubai.
How much does it cost to renew?
Visitors and tourists can apply for the second renewal before the expiry of the first one against AED 600 each time of renewal, says the official portal of the UAE government.
Who is eligible to extend their UAE tourist visa?
Those within the following categories are not eligible for a visit visa extension:
- Visitors/tourists who are GCC residents.
- Residents accompanying GCC nationals.
- Visitors with a special entry permit.
- Visitors with a 96-hour permit for special missions.
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