DFA issues updated UAE visa-on-arrival guidelines

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has issued an updated guideline and requirements for Filipinos, particularly holders of valid regular Philippine passports, who want to avail of a visa-upon-arrival in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

These include Filipino citizens who have valid visas or residence permits issued by any of the following countries:

• United States of America
• Countries in the European Union
• United Kingdom

Filipino citizens who have valid Residence Permits issued by any of the following countries:

• Japan
• Republic of Korea
• Australia
• Canada
• Singapore
• New Zealand

"The Philippine passport, and the applicable visa, residence permit, or Green Card must be valid for at least six (6) months upon visa application, to be able to avail of the visa-on-arrival to the UAE," the DFA said.

The eligible travelers can avail of the following options:

For those who plan to stay in the UAE for 14 days, upon payment of United Arab Emirates dirham (AED) 100 may be extended once for an additional 14 days at a fee of AED 250.

A payment of AED 250 is required for travelers who opt to stay for 60 days, which is non-extendable.

The DFA said applications may be filed at UAE Airports or through ICP Smart Services Website via the following link: https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae/echannels/web/client/default.html#/login

However, for applications filed through the ICP Smart Services website, an additional ICP Smart Services fee of AED 150 applies to each request.

"The issuance of a visa upon arrival and admission into the UAE remain subject to the assessment and approval of the relevant UAE immigration authorities," the agency said. — BAP, GMA News