The United Arab Emirates has launched a new online visa service that allows residents to invite friends and relatives to visit the country for stays of up to 90 days. The Friend or Relative Visa initiative marks the latest advancement in the UAE’s ongoing digital transformation of government services, building upon the country’s sophisticated national identity infrastructure.
The new visa system offers both single-entry and multiple-entry options, with validity for entry extending up to 60 days from the date of issue. Visitors can request stays ranging from 30 to 90 days, with the possibility of applying for extensions during their time in the UAE. The digital-first approach supports the UAE’s broader initiatives to modernize its immigration and identity verification systems, which have previously included the integration of biometric verification capabilities.
To qualify for the visa, visitors must possess a passport with at least six months of remaining validity, a confirmed travel ticket, and valid health insurance coverage for their entire stay. Additionally, they must demonstrate their relationship as a friend or relative of the UAE citizen or resident inviting them, up to the first or second degree. Foreign residents inviting visitors must hold first or second-level job classifications as determined by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
The application process is conducted entirely online through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security’s website or mobile application. Applicants log in using their digital identity, select the desired visa duration, provide necessary personal and travel information, verify details, and submit payment. The digital system builds on the UAE’s existing government database infrastructure, which has already been successfully implemented in other sectors including banking and financial services.
“This service allows visitors to explore life and opportunities in the UAE, whether for leisure, business, or investment,” said Maj-Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, director-general of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security.
The system includes provisions for visa extensions and multiple entries, though visitors must adhere to specified durations to avoid administrative penalties and daily fines. The initiative aims to facilitate family reunification while offering opportunities for visitors to explore potential investments in the UAE. The digital visa service represents another step in the UAE’s commitment to streamlining government services through technological innovation, following the country’s successful implementation of various digital identity and verification solutions across both public and private sectors.
Sources: Platinumlist, Pakistan Observer, Zam Review
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