Expanded Visa-on-Arrival Options for UAE Residents Traveling to India

KOCHIN- India has made significant changes to its Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) scheme for citizens of the UAE. This initiative allows for more entry points, greatly simplifying travel for passengers flying with major airlines like Emirates and Etihad.

New additions to the list of eligible airports include Cochin (COK), Calicut (CCJ), and Ahmedabad (AMD). This expansion enhances mobility between India and the UAE, supporting a greater influx of travelers and aligning with India’s broader initiative to facilitate arrivals for international visitors.

Expanded Airport List

More Entry Points

There are now nine international airports in India where travelers can access the Visa-on-Arrival scheme, including the newly added Cochin, Calicut, and Ahmedabad airports. This update provides UAE travelers with greater flexibility in their travel plans.

The change is also beneficial for airlines, as increased passenger volumes are expected at these airports. The Visa-on-Arrival option will be available year-round, with no restrictions on the number of times it can be used annually.

Officials have highlighted that this adjustment responds to the growing demand from UAE travelers, strengthening existing travel connections between both nations.

Eligibility Rules

The Visa-on-Arrival is available exclusively for UAE citizens who have previously held either an Indian e-Visa or a standard paper visa.

It’s important to note that UAE nationals with Pakistani ancestry through parents or grandparents must apply for a regular visa through Indian embassies in the UAE. First-time visitors are encouraged to opt for an e-Visa or traditional visa, reserving the VoA for future trips.

This approach not only ensures accurate immigration records but also streamlines entry for repeat travelers.

Purpose and Stay Duration

Travel Categories Covered

The Visa-on-Arrival allows for various purposes, including business trips, tourism, medical visits, and attendance at conferences. Once granted, it permits stays of up to 60 days.

Travelers can enter India twice within the 60-day period with a double-entry VoA. However, extensions or changes to this visa are not permitted under any circumstances.

One notable advantage of this scheme is the unlimited annual usage, which encourages frequent visits for families, medical treatments, or business activities.

Documentation Requirements

Travelers seeking a Visa-on-Arrival must possess a passport that is valid for at least six months and has two blank pages. Essential documents include a completed VoA application, a disembarkation card, and recent passport-sized photographs.

Travelers might also need to provide proof of financial capability, accommodations, and a return or onward ticket.

The VoA application can be filled out online in advance or completed upon arrival. A fee of Rs 2,000 applies to each traveler, including children, at the time of visa issuance.

Bottom Line

The recent expansion of India’s Visa-on-Arrival for UAE citizens is a crucial advancement in simplifying the travel experience. By adding more eligible airports and removing limits on annual use, this initiative enhances convenience for travelers and strengthens aviation and tourism links between India and the UAE.