UAE Announces 90-Day Visa with No Sponsor Needed

The UAE visa system is undergoing its most significant transformation, introducing a groundbreaking 90-day multiple-entry visa that eliminates the need for a local sponsor. You can now stay in the UAE for up to three months per visit, with the flexibility to extend your stay up to 180 days annually. Furthermore, this new visa, costing AED 700 plus a refundable security deposit of AED 2,000, offers a straightforward online application process with decisions typically reached within 5-7 business days.

In addition to simplifying travel requirements, this visa opens doors for various individuals, including tourists, remote workers, job seekers, and entrepreneurs. To qualify, you’ll need to demonstrate financial stability, maintain a valid passport with at least six months of validity, and hold valid travel insurance. This progressive visa policy strengthens the UAE’s position as a premier global destination for work, travel, and innovation, making long-term stays more accessible than ever before.

UAE Announces Revolutionary Visa Changes for 2025

Starting February 13, 2025, the UAE will implement significant changes to its visa policies, marking a new era in the country’s approach to international visitors. The centerpiece of this reform is a flexible 90-day visa that allows multiple entries and can be extended up to 180 days per year. Moreover, eligible Indian nationals can obtain visas upon arrival at UAE entry points without prior application.

The application process has been streamlined through the GDRFA or ICA UAE platforms. Applicants need to submit necessary documents and pay a visa fee of AED 700, along with a refundable security deposit of AED 2,000. Subsequently, the processing time ranges between 5-7 business days.

This visa initiative particularly benefits Indian passport holders, who previously faced extensive documentation requirements and unpredictable approval times. Under the new system, those meeting eligibility criteria receive their visas directly at designated UAE entry points. Initially, visitors receive a 14-day stay permit, with an option to extend for an additional 14 days at a nominal fee.

The UAE government has designed this policy to strengthen its position as a premier global destination. Specifically, the extended stay options create enhanced opportunities for:

• Business professionals exploring market expansion
• Tourists planning longer visits
• Family members of UAE residents
• Entrepreneurs seeking business opportunities

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has integrated these changes with its “Exporting the Border” practice. This pioneering approach enables applicants to complete visa procedures in their home countries through smart e-borders systems, significantly reducing processing complexities.

These modifications align with the UAE’s strategic vision of becoming more accessible to international visitors while maintaining robust immigration standards. The new system particularly emphasizes convenience for business travelers and tourists, eliminating previous hurdles that required local sponsorship. Consequently, this reform positions the UAE to attract increased foreign investment and tourism, while simultaneously boosting consumer spending and economic growth.

How Will New UAE Visa Rules Impact Global Travelers?

The latest visa reforms herald substantial benefits for global travelers planning extended stays in the UAE. Under the new system, eligible individuals can obtain visas upon arrival at any designated UAE entry point, eliminating pre-approval requirements. The visa allows for a 14-day stay, with an option to extend for an additional 14 days at a nominal fee.

For Indian travelers, these changes bring exceptional advantages. The expansion now includes Indian passport holders with valid visas, residence permits, or green cards from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea. This broadened eligibility creates a more inclusive travel environment, especially beneficial for those with international business interests.

The removal of sponsorship requirements for the 90-day visa presents remarkable opportunities for various categories of visitors. Remote workers, job seekers, and entrepreneurs can now explore the UAE’s business landscape without securing local sponsorship. Additionally, the visa permits multiple entries and extends up to 180 days annually.

Family reunification becomes more accessible through these reforms. Expatriate residents earning a minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation can sponsor their families. The policy allows sponsorship of unmarried daughters without age restrictions and sons until age 25. Parents can also be sponsored with a yearly residence visa, regardless of the sponsor’s visa duration.

The impact on business travel is equally significant. The five-year multiple-entry visa facilitates:

• Business meetings and collaborations
• Investment opportunities in Dubai’s markets
• Networking with potential partners in free zones

These changes align with major events such as Expo 2025, Dubai Shopping Festival, and Global Village, making attendance more convenient for international visitors. The simplified entry procedures boost several sectors, notably hospitality, retail, real estate, and aviation.

For working professionals, the Green Residence Visa offers a 5-year residency option with extended benefits, including a 6-month grace period after permit expiration. This visa type supports freelancers and self-employed individuals, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to attracting diverse global talent.

What Makes UAE’s New Visa System Stand Out Globally?

The UAE’s pioneering approach to visa processing sets new benchmarks in global immigration systems. Through advanced AI-powered platforms like Salama, visa renewals now take minutes rather than days. This digital transformation allows immediate downloads of updated documents, eliminating paperwork and reducing waiting times significantly.

The introduction of minimum financial requirements brings transparency to the application process. Applicants must demonstrate possession of at least AED 3,000 in their bank accounts, ensuring visitors can support themselves during their stay. This requirement applies uniformly across tourist and business visas, creating a predictable framework for all travelers.

The UAE’s Golden Visa program stands as a cornerstone of the country’s strategy to attract exceptional talent. This long-term residency option targets global entrepreneurs and tech specialists, offering stability beyond traditional short-term visas. The program aligns with UAE’s vision of transitioning from an oil-dependent economy to a knowledge-based powerhouse.

VISARUN.AI, a new platform in the MENA region, processes up to 10,000 visa applications monthly. The system features:

• Smart Visa Route system for personalized application pathways
• AI Interview Simulation providing real-time feedback
• Advanced Document Verification using computer vision
• Visa Approval Calculator for success probability assessment

The Arab States region leads globally in migrant worker concentration, with migrants comprising 41.4% of the total workforce. This high percentage underscores the importance of efficient visa processing systems. The UAE’s automated visa services operate 24/7, featuring AI assistance and comprehensive status tracking in one central location.

For tech specialists and founders, the Golden Visa program offers unique advantages. This initiative supports the UAE’s goal of becoming a leading global hub for technology, healthcare, education, and arts. The program’s focus on high-value talent and substantial investment positions the UAE as a premier destination for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Summary:

UAE’s groundbreaking visa reforms mark a significant shift toward a more accessible and efficient immigration system. These changes make the country an attractive destination for global talent, businesses, and families. The new sponsor-free 90-day visa, paired with smart AI-powered processing systems, sets high standards for immigration practices worldwide.

The comprehensive visa framework serves multiple purposes, addressing needs across different visitor categories. Remote workers benefit from extended stay options, while families enjoy simplified reunification processes. Additionally, the Golden Visa program attracts exceptional talent, strengthening UAE’s position as a global innovation hub.

The transparent financial requirements and streamlined processes through platforms like VISARUN.AI demonstrate UAE’s commitment to modernization. Therefore, these reforms position the UAE as a forward-thinking nation ready to welcome global citizens. Above all, these changes reflect UAE’s strategic vision of becoming a premier destination for work, life, and innovation, making it easier than ever to experience all the country offers.