Introduction

Planning to stay longer in the UAE than your current visa allows? You’re not alone — many visitors find themselves wanting extra time to explore the country, visit family, or attend business events. Fortunately, extending your UAE visit visa is possible and often simpler than most people think.

In this 2025 updated guide, we’ll walk you through the complete UAE visit visa extension process.
Whether you’re looking to extend a UAE tourist visa for 30 or 60 days, we’ll explain:

• Who can apply

• The types of extensions available

• Step-by-step application guide (without exiting the UAE)

• Required documents

• Extension fees and costs

• Critical rules to avoid fines

• Answers to frequently asked questions

Let’s dive in and make your UAE stay stress-free and fully legal!

Can You Extend Your UAE Visit Visa in 2025?

Yes, you can extend your UAE visit visa in 2025 — and the process is now easier than ever!
Visitors holding a valid UAE tourist or visit visa can apply for an extension without leaving the country, thanks to the inside-country visa extension system introduced a few years ago.

Eligibility for UAE Visa Extension

You are eligible to extend your visit visa if you meet the following basic criteria:

• You currently hold a valid UAE visit or tourist visa.

• Your passport is valid for at least six more months.

• You apply before your current visa expires or within the allowed grace period (if applicable).

⚡ Important Tip: Not all nationalities or visa types may qualify for an extension. Always double-check with official UAE immigration channels (ICP or GDRFA) before applying.

Inside Country Extension: No Exit Required!

One of the biggest advantages in 2025 is that you don’t need to exit the UAE to extend your visa.
You can easily complete the process online or through authorized typing centers while staying within the UAE borders.

Types of UAE Visit Visa Extensions Available

When extending your visit visa inside the UAE, you usually have two main options in 2025:

1. 30 Days Visa Extension UAE

This is the most common and affordable choice for tourists who need a short extension.
Highlights:

• Adds 30 additional days to your stay.

• Available for most nationalities.

• Can usually be extended without leaving the UAE through ICP Smart Services or GDRFA (for Dubai).

Ideal For:
Short trips, finalizing business deals, family visits, or tourism purposes.

2. 60 Days Visit Visa Extension UAE

If you need a longer stay, a 60-day extension might be better.
Highlights:

• Adds a full 60 days to your current visa.

• Slightly higher fee compared to 30 days extension.

• Also available through official portals without exiting the country.

Ideal For:
People exploring job opportunities, attending long-term events, or extended family visits.

How Many Times Can You Extend a UAE Visit Visa?

As of 2025, you can typically extend your UAE visit visa twice (e.g., 30 + 30 days) without exiting.
However, rules can vary depending on:

• Your nationality

• Type of visit visa issued

• Current UAE immigration policies

⚡ Pro Tip: Always check your visa type — some visas (like special job-seeker visas or multiple-entry visas) may have different extension rules.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Visa Extension Inside the UAE (2025 Process)

Extending your UAE visit visa from inside the country is now easier than ever. Whether you’re in Dubai or any other emirate, the process is streamlined and can mostly be completed online.

In-Country Visa Extension Without Exit: The 2025 Method

You no longer need to leave the UAE to renew your visit visa. The government allows in-country visa extensions via authorized portals. Here’s exactly how you can do it:

Main Authorities Handling Extensions

• ICP Smart Services:
  Covers all emirates except Dubai.

  • Website: smartservices.icp.gov.ae

• GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs):
  Specific to Dubai visit visa extensions.

  • Website: gdrfad.gov.ae

How to Apply for UAE Visit Visa Extension: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Prepare all the required documents before starting your application (passport, visa copy, photo, etc.). (Full list in the next section.)

Step 2: Create an Account or Login

Access the relevant portal (ICP or GDRFA) and register/login with your details.

Step 3: Select the Correct Service

Choose the visa extension service that matches your need:

• 30-day visa extension UAE

• 60-day visit visa extension UAE

🛡️ Make sure you choose the right visa number to avoid mistakes.

Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form

Complete the extension form accurately with up-to-date information.

Step 5: Upload the Required Documents

Attach clear, scanned copies of all required documents in the specified formats.

Step 6: Pay the Visa Extension Fees

Use a secure payment gateway to pay the UAE visa extension fee.
Some platforms allow urgent processing for an extra charge.

Step 7: Submit and Wait for Approval

After submission:

• You’ll usually receive an SMS or email confirmation.

• Most extensions are processed within a few working days.

Alternative: Authorized Typing Centers

If you prefer offline help:

• Visit a registered typing center.

• They will complete the application for you (service fees may apply).

Documents Required for UAE Visa Extension

Before applying to extend your UAE visit visa, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready. Incomplete applications can cause delays or rejections, so preparing these documents in advance is crucial.

Here’s the updated list of required documents for a smooth UAE visa extension process:

Mandatory Documents:

• 1. Passport Copy

  • Must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of application.

  • Clear, colored copy (photo and details page).

• 2. Passport-Sized Photograph

  • White background.

  • Recent photo (taken within the last six months).

• 3. Copy of Current Visit Visa or Tourist Visa

  • Front and back, if applicable.

  • Should clearly show the visa number and expiration date.

• 4. Emirates ID (Optional but Recommended if Applicable)

  • If you have a previously issued Emirates ID (even if expired), some authorities ask for it.

• 5. Entry Stamp (If Separate from Visa)

  • For some nationalities, showing your UAE entry stamp can help verify your initial arrival.

Important Tips:

• File Size Matters: Upload files within the size limits specified by ICP or GDRFA portals.

• Clear Scans: Make sure scans/photos are clear — blurred images often cause application rejections.

• Consistency: Details (passport number, name spelling, etc.) must exactly match across all documents.

UAE Visit Visa Extension Fees & Costs (2025 Estimates)

If you’re planning to extend your stay in the UAE, it’s important to understand the UAE visit visa extension fees beforehand. Costs can vary slightly depending on whether you apply through ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) in Dubai.

Here’s a breakdown of the expected costs for 2025:

How Much Does a UAE Visit Visa Extension Cost?

1. 30 Days Visa Extension UAE

• Standard Extension Fee: Approximately AED 750 – AED 900.

• Service Charges: Typing center fees or portal service fees may add around AED 50–100.

2. 60 Days Visit Visa Extension UAE

• Standard Extension Fee: Approximately AED 1,200 – AED 1,400.

• Additional Costs: Urgent service or fast-track processing may add AED 100–200.

💡 Note: Fees may vary slightly based on your method of application (online vs. typing center) and the emirate you are applying in.

Extra Charges You Might Encounter:

• Urgent Processing Fee: If you need faster processing, expect to pay an additional fee.

• Overstay Fine Payment: If you apply after your visa expires, you may need to clear any overstay fines first.

• Courier Service Charges: If you choose document delivery options (optional).

Important Disclaimer:

Fees mentioned above are estimates based on 2025 trends.
✅ Always double-check the latest official costs on the ICP Smart Services Portal or the GDRFA Dubai Portal before applying.

Critical Rules & Regulations (Know Before You Apply – 2025 Update)

Before you apply for your UAE visit visa extension, it’s crucial to understand the updated rules and regulations. Being aware of these guidelines will help you avoid fines, visa rejection, and unnecessary hassles during your stay in the UAE.

Key Rules You Must Follow for UAE Visa Extension:

1. Apply Before Visa Expiry

• You must apply for an extension before your current visa expires or before the grace period ends.

• Late applications can result in overstay fines and complications with future UAE travel.

2. UAE Visit Visa Grace Period 2025

• After your visit visa expires, you typically get a 10-day grace period to either extend, renew, or exit the country.

• Important: Overstaying beyond the grace period leads to daily fines.

3. Overstaying Consequences

• Fine for Overstaying:

  • Approximately AED 50 per day of overstay (subject to change).

• Additional Penalties:

  • A one-time service fee of around AED 250–300 may be charged when paying overstay fines.

• Serious Consequences:

  • Prolonged overstaying could result in travel bans, visa rejection in the future, and difficulty re-entering the UAE.

4. Extension Not Always Guaranteed

• Immigration authorities reserve the right to approve or deny visa extension applications without providing a reason.

• Make sure your documents are complete and valid when applying.

Latest Updates in UAE Visit Visa Extension Rules 2025

✅ In-Country Extensions:
You can still extend your visa inside the UAE without leaving the country through ICP Smart Services and GDRFA for Dubai.

✅ Limited Number of Extensions:
Typically, you can only extend your visa once or twice, depending on your visa type. Confirm this based on your specific visa category.

✅ No Border Runs for Extensions:
As of 2025, UAE authorities discourage “border runs” (exiting and re-entering the country to renew a visa). Always opt for a proper extension via official channels.

⚡ Pro Tip: Always track your visa expiry date and set a reminder to apply for your extension at least 5–7 days before expiration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About UAE Visa Extensions

If you’re considering extending your stay in the UAE, you might have a few questions. Let’s answer the most common queries about the UAE visit visa extension process in 2025:

Q1: How long does the UAE visa extension approval take?

• Typically, once you submit a complete application through ICP Smart Services or GDRFA Dubai, the approval is granted within 24 to 48 hours.

• Some cases might take longer if additional verification is required.

Q2: Can I extend a 90-day visit visa in the UAE?

• Yes, in many cases, you can extend a 90-day visit visa by an additional 30 or 60 days, depending on the authority’s approval.

• Always check with ICP or GDRFA for your specific visa type.

Q3: Do I need a local sponsor to apply for the extension myself?

• No, for individual tourist/visit visas, you generally do not need a local sponsor to extend your visa.

• You can apply directly online through official portals or authorized service centers.

Q4: What should I do if my visa extension application gets rejected?

• Immediate Actions:

  • Contact the respective authority (ICP or GDRFA) for clarification.

  • Seek assistance from a licensed PRO service provider or typing center.

• Alternative Options:

  • Exit the country and reapply for a new visa if allowed.

  • Always act quickly to avoid fines and overstaying penalties.

Q5: Where can I find the most official and up-to-date information?

• Always refer to the official UAE government portals:

  • ICP Smart Services Portal

  • GDRFA Dubai Website

Avoid unofficial sources to prevent misinformation.