Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Travel agents have affirmed that the UAE's issuance of 60-day visit visas has resumed. According to an announcement by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), the initiative is part of the sweeping reforms known as the Advanced Visa System, which went into effect on October 3. "We were one of the first ones to get a 60-day visit visa issued for a client," said Afi Ahmed, managing director of Smart Travel. "Currently, we are charging Dh500 for it." Other travel agencies have also confirmed the resumption of issuing 60-day visit visas. Among the new entry permits are a job exploration entry visa; one for business entry, a five-year multi-entry tourist visa; one for visiting relatives or friends; one for temporary work; and one for studies and training. Experts say the five-year multi-entry tourism visa is one of the most popular. It does not require a sponsor and allows the person to stay in the country for up to 90 days in a row, and it can be extended for a similar period if the total period of stay does not exceed 180 days in a year. This visa requires proof of a $4,000 bank balance or its equivalent in foreign currency in the six months preceding the application. Visas for job exploration or business entry are issued for 60, 90, or 120 days. According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, visas are given to those with first, second, or third skill levels. Fresh graduates from the world's top 500 universities are also eligible to apply. A bachelor's degree or equivalent is required as the minimum educational level. BKM/ Expat Media
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