UAE Visit Visa Extension Process (Rules & Fees) – 2026 Complete UAE Guide

February 21, 2026 7:42 PM

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21 February 2026| Dubai, UAE [Posted at 7:42 pm]

If you are currently in the UAE and need more time for tourism, business meetings, family visits, or medical treatment, understanding the UAE visit visa extension process is essential. The good news? The UAE visit visa system allows extensions without leaving the country if you follow the correct rules and apply before the expiry date.

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Why Understanding the UAE Visit Visa Extension Process Matters

Overview: Many visitors assume they can extend their stay automatically. That is not correct. Overstaying results in immediate fines, and Dubai no longer offers a grace period for tourists.

If you hold a UAE visit visa, you must:

Apply before the expiry date
Confirm your visa type allows extension
Pay official government fees
Use authorised platforms

Failure to do so leads to daily penalties.

Who Can Extend a UAE Visit Visa?

Overview: Not every visa category qualifies. Extension eligibility depends on the visa type, issuing authority, and entry method.

Most types of UAE visit visa permits are extendable, including:

Tourist visa
Visit visa for family or friends
Business exploration visa
Medical treatment visa
Study or training visa
GCC residents’ visit visa (subject to approval)

Important Duration Rules

Depending on the category:

Tourist visas: Maximum stay up to 120 days (including extensions)
Family / special visit permits: Up to 180 days in total (subject to approval)
Extensions must be applied before expiry

Dubai has removed the former 10-day grace period.

UAE Visit Visa Extension Process – Step-by-Step (Online & In Person)

Overview: You can extend your stay without exiting the UAE. Applications are processed digitally in most cases.

The official authorities managing extensions are:

Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP)
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai)

Method 1: Online Extension (Recommended)

This is the fastest and most convenient method. Before starting, ensure your documents are ready. Follow these steps carefully:

Log in to the ICP Smart Services Portal or mobile app
Sign in using UAE Pass
Select “Tourist Visa Extension” or relevant service
Enter personal and passport details
Upload required documents
Pay the fees online
Receive confirmation email with Application ID

Processing time is usually within 48 hours.

Method 2: In-Person at Amer Centre (Dubai)

If you prefer assistance, you can visit an authorised Amer Centre in Dubai. Before visiting, keep all documents ready.

Take a queue token
Submit passport and visa copies
Provide a photo and supporting documents
Pay the service fee at the counter
Wait for approval notification

Visa will be issued electronically after approval. If your visa was arranged through a travel agency or sponsor, they may apply on your behalf.

Documents Required for UAE Visit Visa Extension

Overview: Missing documents cause delays or rejection. Always verify before submission.

Before applying, check the validity carefully. You must prepare the following:

Passport copy (minimum 6 months validity)
Copy of the current UAE visit visa
Recent passport-size photograph
Proof of accommodation (if required)
Return ticket (in some cases)
Medical insurance (if applicable)

Authorities may request additional documents depending on the visa category.

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UAE Visit Visa Extension Fees (2026 Updated)

Overview: Fees vary slightly depending on application method and location.

Remember, VAT also applies. Below is the official government fee structure for the UAE visit visa extension:

Base visa extension fee: AED 600
VAT (5%)
Inside UAE processing fee: AED 500
Knowledge Dirham: AED 10
Innovation Dirham: AED 10

Estimated Total

Depending on the case, the total cost of the UAE visit visa extension may range between AED 1,100 and AED 1,300+

Always confirm final charges through official portals before payment.

Overstaying Rules & Fines in the UAE

Overview: Overstaying a UAE visit visa triggers automatic penalties. There is no grace period for tourists in Dubai.

If your visa expires, fines start immediately. Here is what you must know:

Overstay fine: AED 50 per day
Departure fine (if applicable): AED 320
All fines must be cleared before exit or applying for a new visa.

Golden and Green Visa holders have different grace rules, but tourists do not. Avoid last-minute applications.

Extension Duration Limits Explained

Overview: Extensions are not unlimited. UAE immigration strictly monitors the total stay duration.

Check your total stay before applying for the UAE visit visa extension. For most cases:

Tourist visa: Up to 120 days total
Family/special visit visas: Up to 180 days total
Extensions granted once or multiple times, depending on visa type

Approval is always subject to the immigration authority’s discretion.

Key Tips Before Applying

Overview: These expert tips help avoid rejection or fines.

Review this checklist for the UAE visit visa extension:

Ensure passport validity is at least 6 months
Apply at least 5–7 days before expiry
Use authorised ICP or GDRFA platforms
Confirm your visa category allows extension
Avoid unverified agents
Keep soft copies of all documents
Save your application ID

If planning to switch to an employment or residence visa, consult early.

Can You Extend a UAE Visit Visa Without Leaving the Country?

Overview: Yes, under current regulations, you can extend your stay without exiting the UAE.

The UAE visit visa system now allows:

Online application via ICP
In-person via Amer Centre (Dubai)
Sponsor/travel agency submission

Leaving the country is not required if you qualify for a UAE visit visa extension.

Processing Time for UAE Visit Visa Extension

Overview: Processing is typically fast but depends on documentation accuracy.

After submission of the UAE visit visa extension, expect:

24–48 hours for approval
Digital visa issued via email
Status tracking using Application ID

Delays usually happen due to incomplete documents.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Overview: Extensions may be rejected if eligibility criteria are not met.

Before applying, avoid these mistakes:

Expired passport
Overstay before applying
Incorrectly uploaded documents
Exceeding the maximum stay limit
Visa category not eligible for extension

Always double-check before payment.

FAQs

1. What is the official fee for extending a UAE visit visa?

The base government fee is AED 600, plus VAT, AED 500 inside-country processing fee, and AED 10 each for Knowledge and Innovation Dirhams.

2. Can I extend my UAE visit visa multiple times?

It depends on your visa type. Tourist visas usually allow extension up to 120 days total stay. Some visit permits allow up to 180 days.

3. Is there a grace period after expiry?

No. Dubai has removed the 10-day grace period for tourists. Overstay fines begin immediately.

4. Can I apply for a UAE visit visa extension online?

Yes. The ICP Smart Services portal allows fully online applications.

5. How long does approval take?

Normally, 24–48 hours if documents are correct.

6. Can a travel agency apply for me?

Yes. If your visa was issued through a sponsor or agency, they may handle the extension.

7. Do I need to exit the UAE to extend?

No, if you apply before expiry and meet eligibility conditions.

Conclusion

The UAE visit visa extension process is simple, but only if you apply on time and follow official rules. Whether you are visiting for tourism, business, family time, or medical reasons, understanding how your UAE visit visa works ensures a smooth and stress-free stay. Always verify the latest updates on official immigration portals before applying.

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