Families visiting the UAE can take advantage of the family group tourist visa service provided by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-D).
As of November 1, parents and their children can apply for visas as a group through authorized travel agencies using the family group visa application.
If you are considering a trip to the UAE with your family, it is essential to familiarize yourself with this visa option. Here is everything you need to know.
How to apply?
Contacting a travel agency in the UAE has never been easier, with the majority of agencies offering the convenience of submitting your documents online via email or WhatsApp.
To initiate the visa application process, all you need are clear copies of your passport and passport-sized photographs. By simply providing these to a travel agency, they can apply for your family’s visa as a group, streamlining the approval process.
This option proves to be both convenient and cost-effective for families, as children under the age of 18 are exempt from visa fees. However, it is important to note that the travel agency may charge a service fee for processing the visa.
By taking advantage of this hassle-free method, families can effortlessly navigate the visa application process, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
How much does the visa cost?
The cost for adults in the group application, as well as the service charge for children, may vary depending on the applicant’s nationality. For instance, adult members of an Indian family can expect to pay approximately Dh300 to Dh350 per person.
Children, on the other hand, are exempt from visa fees, but there may be processing charges ranging from Dh80 to Dh100 for each child’s application.
It is important to note that processing costs can differ among agencies. Therefore, it is advisable to contact them beforehand to inquire about their specific charges.
Documents required
East and West Travels LLC, a Dubai-based travel agency, has outlined the essential documents required for visa applicants. The two main mandatory documents are a clear copy of the passport and a passport-sized photograph.
However, there are instances where additional documents may be requested. These include the birth certificate of children, marriage certificate, national ID, bank statement, hotel reservation, and return ticket.
It is important to note that if you are from a country where the parents’ names are mentioned on the passport, a birth certificate is not necessary. However, if the children’s passport does not include the names of the father or mother, a birth certificate must be provided. This requirement may also apply if the parents are of different nationalities, in which case a marriage certificate may also be necessary.
Furthermore, nationals of certain countries and applicants within specific age groups may be required to submit their national ID or bank statement.
By ensuring that you have all the necessary documents, you can streamline the visa application process and avoid any delays or complications. East and West Travels LLC is committed to providing professional and efficient services to assist you in your travel endeavors.
Also Read: What are the options for UAE tourist visas with a one-month extension?
What is the duration of the visa?
According to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-D), travel agencies are now eligible to apply for short-term tourist visas. These visas have a duration ranging from 30 to 60 days, and if required, can be extended up to a maximum of 120 days.
How long will it take to get the approval?
The application process may require a period of three to four days for approval, although frequently the visa is issued much sooner.
