UAE introduces new visiting visa categories, updates rules for residents and sponsors

Abu Dhabi: The UAE government has announced significant updates to its visit visa rules, including the introduction of four new visa categories and revisions to the durations and conditions of several existing permits. The changes also set a minimum monthly income requirement for residents sponsoring visitors, as outlined by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).

Under the new regulations:

Four new visit visa categories have been introduced for specialists in artificial intelligence, entertainment, events, cruise ships, and leisure boats.

A humanitarian residence permit is issued for one year, with the possibility of extension based on ICP’s discretion and compliance with specified conditions.

A residence permit for foreign widows or divorcees is granted for one year, renewable for a similar period under defined conditions.

The friend or relative visit visa allows UAE residents to sponsor friends or relatives up to the third degree, provided the sponsor meets the income requirement.

The business exploration visa requires applicants to demonstrate financial solvency, ownership of a share in an existing company abroad, or proven professional practice.

A truck driver visa necessitates the presence of a sponsor and includes specific health and financial guarantees.

Updated schedules outline the authorised duration of stay for each visa type and the applicable conditions for extension.

These updates are aimed at streamlining the visa process, enhancing transparency, and aligning sponsorship requirements with residents’ financial capacity.