UAE Visit Visa Extension Guide 2025: Rules, Fees & Process Explained

Extending a short stay in the UAE is common. Whether your trip grew longer, business meetings ran late, or family plans changed, you can usually extend legally. This guide explains the rules, costs, and steps for a clear UAE visit visa extension.  

Quick facts at a glance

• You can apply online through GDRFA digital channels.
• The standard visa extension fee is AED 600 plus 5% VAT.
• Some prearranged visas are extendable at airport offices. Fees differ.
• Dubai limits total extension days; check the issuing authority for exact limits.

What types of visit visas can be extended?

The UAE issues several short-stay permits. These include 30-, 60- and 90-day visitor visas, single- and multiple-entry options, and special multi-entry passes. Airlines and travel agents also issue prearranged entry permits for many nationalities. Some of these visas allow extensions; others do not. Emirates Airlines lists which prearranged visas are extendable and notes the applicable fees and requirements.

GDRFA Dubai provides the digital service for tourist visa extensions in the emirate. Accredited tourism offices can issue visit visas. Use the service that issued your visa if possible.

Key rules and maximum stay

Rules vary by emirate, visa type, and issuing channel. For Dubai, GDRFA states that extensions may be granted but must not exceed a fixed total number of days (check the exact limit on the issuing service). The GDRFA lists the runtime and terms for tourist visa extensions. Always treat GDRFA guidance as primary for Dubai cases.

Several consultancy guides and industry pages also report changes to the visitor visa policy in recent years. They highlight that authorities have tightened some overstay rules and clarified extension windows. Because processes evolve, rely first on the issuing authority for any decision that affects your travel plans.

Fees and extra charges you must plan for

The official GDRFA listing gives a clear fee structure for a Dubai tourist visa extension. The headline fee is AED 600, plus 5% VAT. When the sponsored person is inside the country, additional levies apply: a Knowledge Dirham (AED 10), an Innovation Dirham (AED 10), and an in-country processing service fee (AED 500). Totals may vary with circumstances.

If your visa was processed through an airline or prearranged channel, Emirates shows separate extension pricing for those visa types. For example, some tourism visas carry an extension fee of US$230 under Emirates’ fee table. Emirates also notes that extensions for those visa types may be handled at airport offices.

Overstay fines and grace periods

Immigration rules change. Several provider guides state that authorities removed a previous short “grace” window after visa expiry. They also note a common daily overstay rate used in the public guidance (reported at AED 50 per day). Because this subject triggers fines and legal exposure, treat the overstay risk seriously and check the issuing authority before you act. 

Emirates and Dubai authorities stress that sponsors or applicants remain responsible for overstays and the related fines. That makes timely extensions and accurate bookings essential. 

Step-by-step: how to extend a visit visa in the UAE

Below is a compact, practical workflow you can follow.

1. Confirm your visa type and issuing channel

If GDRFA issued the visa, use its smart services. If an airline or travel agent issued it, check their extension process.

2. Gather documents

Typical documents include a clear passport copy (valid for six months), a current visa copy, a passport-sized photograph, and a return flight ticket. Some channels also ask for hotel bookings or proof of accommodation. Emirates lists the common document set for prearranged visa extensions.

3. Apply online or in person

For Dubai, log into the GDRFA smart services system with UAE PASS or account credentials, find the “extend” service, fill the form, and pay the fee. Amer centers and GDRFA customer centers accept in-person submissions. Many applicants prefer online filing due to speed and tracking.

4. Pay fees and wait

Pay the stated extension fees online or at the center. GDRFA lists an expected completion window for the service. Airlines that offer extensions at airport offices will publish their own processing times.

5. Receive approval and keep records

Once approved, you will receive an updated visa record. Print or download any confirmation. Keep proof of the approved extension with you while in the UAE.

Each step has small but important variations. For example, some prearranged visas can only be extended at an airport office. Check the issuing body before you travel.

Practical examples and common scenarios

• Tourist in Dubai with a 30-day entry stamp: Apply through GDRFA digital channels or authorized tourism offices for an extension. Expect the standard fees and the local levies listed above.
• Visitor holding a prearranged airline permit: Emirates shows which prearranged types are extendable and notes that extensions can be completed at airport offices for those visas. Keep the original passport and ticket copy ready.

Tips to avoid problems

• Apply early. Don’t wait until the last day. Several sources warn that grace windows may no longer exist. Apply well before expiry to avoid fines.
• Use the issuing channel. If an airline issued your permit, continue with them. If GDRFA issued it, use GDRFA smart services. This reduces delays.
• Keep documents updated. Ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity from the application date. Carry the return ticket and proof of accommodation.
• Budget for extra fees. Total costs can include the base fee, VAT, and small municipal levies. Plan ahead to cover them.

When to seek professional help

If your case has unusual factors — out-of-country sponsorship, complex family situations, or prior overstays — consider professional help. Authorized PRO services and visa consultancies can file on your behalf and help follow up with authorities. Filings and specialist consultancies offer paid services and will help navigate special cases. Use them if you need hands-on support. 

Final checklist before you apply

• Confirm visa type and who issued it.
• Prepare a passport copy, visa copy, return ticket, and photos.
• Check exact fees and levies on the issuing portal.
• Apply well before expiry to avoid fines and complications.

Conclusion

Extending a stay in the UAE is usually straightforward when you follow the rules and plan ahead. Use the issuing authority’s channel for the best outcome. Keep your documents current, budget for the published fees, and apply early. If the process looks complex, use a trusted consultancy or PRO for help. This approach will keep your trip on track and avoid unnecessary fines or travel disruption. 

Recommended For You

1. Six Gulf Nations Approve GCC Unified Visa: A Schengen-Style Tourist Pass for Easy Gulf Travel
2. UAE Residence Visa 2025: Blue Visa, Renewal Process & Affordable Options