Since late 2022, the UAE has been overhauling its visa system as part of a broader shift towards more flexible, visitor-friendly policies. It grants multiple-entry or single-entry visas that allow people to visit the country for a specific purpose.
The purpose of the ‘visit visas’ includes tourism, visiting a relative, attending to a mission, exploring business or job opportunities, getting medical treatment, studying and training, and for transiting through the UAE.
While these visas have been streamlined, and many short-term entry permits can now be renewed from within the UAE, the visa rules still vary by category and penalties for overstaying are strictly enforced. It is therefore essential to understand the extension rules, application process and grace periods.
Who can apply to extend a visa?
If you’re in the UAE on a visit visa, you may be eligible for an extension. Some visa-on-arrival categories also allow limited extensions. Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states can generally renew once, subject to approval. The duration and terms of an extension will depend on how you entered the country and which authority issued your visa.
How long can you extend a visa for?
A 30-day tourist visa can typically be extended twice, providing for up to 90 days in total. A 60-day visa is usually extendable once for an extra 30 days. If you’re on a 90-day visa, extensions are generally not available.
A job-seeker visa allows foreigners allows foreigners to search for a job in Dubai without requiring a host/sponsor in the country, for one trip. You can apply for a job-seeker visa with a validity of either 60, 90 or 120 days.
Other categories, including visiting a relative, attending a mission, exploring business opportunities, getting medical treatment, studying and training, can be extended in monthly blocks, up to 180 days total.
It is important to note that the total stay in Dubai cannot exceed 180 days in a calendar year, including the original visa period and any extensions.
It is also important to apply for any extension before your current visa expires because the previous 10-day grace period after your visa expiration has been removed. Overstaying will result in a AED50 (c. USD14) penalty for each additional day.
How to apply for a visa extension in Dubai
You can apply for an extension without leaving the UAE. This is the most convenient option, saving you the trouble of exiting and re-entering the country. The required documentation simply comprises a passport that is valid for at least six months from the application date and a copy of the existing visit visa.
There are two main ways to apply. The first is online via the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) Smart Services Portal or mobile app. You will need to log in using UAE Pass, select the relevant service, upload a copy of your passport and pay the required fees.
The second option is to apply in person at an Amer Centre or a Customer Happiness Centre. Bring your documents, take a queue ticket and submit your application at the counter. If your visa was arranged through a sponsor or travel agency, they may need to handle the renewal on your behalf.
Visa extension fees and payment details
The base extension fee is AED600 (c. USD165), plus a 5% VAT charge. If you apply from inside the UAE, there is an additional AED500 processing charge. The application will also be subject to both the AED10 Knowledge Dirham and Innovation Dirham fees, which are levied on every transaction to support educational and cultural projects and to foster innovation respectively.
The total may differ slightly depending on the visa type and how you submit the application. Always double-check the fees on the ICP portal or at an Amer Centre before you apply.
Overstay penalties and compliance risks
If you overstay a tourist visa, fines begin from the day it expires. There is no longer any grace period and you will be required to settle any penalties before you can make any further application or you leave the UAE.
UAE residents get more leeway. Golden and Green Visa holders, and their dependants, can stay for up to 180 days after expiry. Most other residents get between 30 and 60 days, but it is essential to check your grace period through the ICP portal or visit an Amer Centre to confirm the rules for your case.
Key reminders for 2025
Before planning to extend a stay in the UAE, you should check whether your visa qualifies for an extension. Not all types do and the grace period, if any, will depend on the particular visa. Always apply before your visa runs out and if you are thinking about switching to a residence or employment visa, seek advice as early as possible. It’s much easier to do things right than fix problems later.
Need help managing your visa status?
Sovereign PPG supports individuals and businesses across the UAE with visa services, corporate structuring and regulatory compliance. Whether you need assistance extending a visit visa, managing staff sponsorships or navigating a change in immigration status, our team can provide clear, reliable guidance at every stage.
Call us (+971 4270 3400 for Dubai or +971 2448 5120 for Abu Dhabi) or send an email to Dubai@SovereignGroup.com, or complete the contact form below. We are here to help.
