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19 Oct 2018 | 11:55 PM UTC

UAE: New visa system starting Oct. 21

The UAE to implement a new visa system on October 21 that will allow extensions for students, widows, divorcees, and visit visa holders

Informational

Event

Starting on Sunday, October 21, the Emirati government will implement a new visa system for certain visitors to the country. The new system will extend the legal residency period for students sponsored by their parents to two years beyond Grade 12, allow visit visa holders to apply twice for a 30-day extension before having to leave the country, and extend the legal residency period for widows, divorcees, and their children who are sponsored on valid visas by the deceased or divorced at the time of death or divorce by one year. The student visa extension is also automatically granted for the first year, but an application is needed for the second year.

Advice

Potentially affected travelers in the UAE are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.