Emirates Visa on Arrival 2026: Eligibility, Countries, and Complete Guide to Apply

The Emirates Visa on Arrival is a convenient option for travelers from select countries who wish to enter the UAE without applying for a visa in advance. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, or family visits, understanding the 2026 visa-on-arrival rules ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience at UAE airports.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Emirates Visa on Arrival 2026—including eligibility, required documents, countries covered, extension options, and how to apply at the airport.

Overview of Emirates Visa on Arrival

An Emirates Visa on Arrival allows eligible travelers to receive their visa upon landing in the UAE, without needing prior approval. The visa duration varies—14, 30, or 90 days—depending on the traveler’s nationality and purpose of visit.

This system simplifies travel, especially for frequent flyers and tourists from countries with UAE bilateral agreements.

Latest Updates on Emirates Visa Policy 2026

As of 2026, UAE’s immigration and visa policies have evolved to make international travel smoother and more secure. Here are the key updates:

• GCC residents must now apply for an Emirates Visa before traveling and are no longer eligible for visa-free entry.

• Citizens from specific countries such as the UK, USA, Japan, and European Union nations can obtain a visa on arrival.

• Indian citizens with a valid US visa, Green Card, or residence permit from the UK or EU can get a 14-day visa on arrival.

• Passports must have at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival.

Eligibility Criteria for Emirates Visa on Arrival

To qualify for an Emirates Visa on Arrival in 2026, travelers must:

• Hold a passport valid for a minimum of 6 months.

• Have a confirmed return or onward flight ticket.

• Provide proof of accommodation (hotel or host details).

• Show proof of sufficient funds for the stay duration.

• Be a citizen of a country approved for visa-on-arrival entry.

Types of Emirates Visa on Arrival

Depending on nationality and travel conditions, visitors can obtain one of the following visa-on-arrival types:

14 Days Emirates Visa on Arrival

• Available for Indian passport holders with valid US visit visas, Green Cards, or UK/EU residence permits.

• Visa valid for 14 days, extendable once for another 14 days.

• Supporting visa or Green Card must remain valid for at least 6 months.

30 Days Emirates Visa on Arrival

• Granted to citizens of countries such as Australia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and Ireland.

• Valid for 30 days from the date of entry with a 10-day grace period.

• Extension possible once for an additional 30 days.

90 Days Emirates Visa on Arrival

• Available for citizens of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Norway, Switzerland, and South Korea.

• Allows multiple entries within a 180-day period.

• Suitable for business travelers and long-term visitors.

Countries Eligible for Emirates Visa on Arrival 2026

As per the 2026 regulations, nationals from the following countries are eligible for visa on arrival:

• 30-day stay: Australia, Brunei, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore, Ukraine, Ireland, United Kingdom

• 90-day stay: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, South Korea

• 14-day stay: Indian citizens with valid US/UK/EU visas or Green Cards

Note: Always confirm your eligibility with UAE authorities before travel as rules may change.

Required Documents for Emirates Visa on Arrival

To ensure a smooth entry at the airport, prepare the following documents:

• Valid Passport: Minimum 6 months validity and one blank visa page

• Return or Onward Flight Ticket

• Proof of Accommodation (hotel booking or residence details)

• Proof of Funds (credit card or bank statement)

• Valid Visa or Residence Permit (for eligible nationalities)

• Travel Insurance covering your stay duration

Step-by-Step Process to Get Emirates Visa on Arrival

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before traveling, verify whether your nationality qualifies for an Emirates Visa on Arrival in 2026.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Ensure all documents, including passport, flight tickets, and accommodation proof, are ready.

Step 3: Arrival at the UAE Airport

At arrival, proceed to the immigration counter designated for visa-on-arrival travelers.

Step 4: Pay Visa Fee (if applicable)

Some nationalities enjoy free entry; others may need to pay a small issuance fee.

Step 5: Collect Visa Stamp and Entry Approval

Once verified, your passport will be stamped with a visa indicating your permitted stay duration.

Emirates Visa on Arrival Extension Policy 2026

Travelers can extend their visa-on-arrival under specific conditions:

• 14-day or 30-day visas: Extendable once for the same duration.

• 90-day visas: Usually not extendable.

• To extend, visit the UAE Immigration Office or apply through an authorized visa service before expiry.

• Overstaying results in daily fines or future travel restrictions.

Emirates Travel Requirements Before Departure

Before traveling to the Emirates in 2026, ensure:

• You check whether your nationality qualifies for visa on arrival or pre-arranged visa.

• You meet the health and entry requirements, including any recent travel restrictions.

• You have not traveled to restricted regions (e.g., South Africa) within 14 days before departure.

• You complete any required COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements (if still applicable).

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection or Entry Denial

Visa denial can occur due to:

• Expired or invalid passport.

• Insufficient financial proof.

• Incomplete documentation.

• Overstay history or visa violation in the UAE.

To avoid this, always ensure your paperwork is accurate and apply through a verified service.

Why Apply for Emirates Visa Through a Trusted Service

While a visa-on-arrival is convenient, not all travelers qualify. Applying through a trusted Emirates Visa service ensures:

• Verified eligibility and correct visa type selection.

• Expert handling of documentation.

• Fast and secure online processing.

• 24/7 customer support and tracking.

Applying through professionals ensures peace of mind and guarantees compliance with UAE laws.

Conclusion: Apply for Your Emirates Visa Today

Whether you are visiting Dubai for leisure, Abu Dhabi for business, or Sharjah for cultural experiences, the Emirates Visa on Arrival makes entering the UAE simple and stress-free.

If your nationality isn’t eligible for visa on arrival, don’t worry — you can easily apply for your Emirates Visa online and get approval before you travel.

✈️ Apply for your Emirates Visa today and experience a smooth journey to the UAE in 2026!