Dubai Visit Visa Application Process From Canada

Planning to visit Dubai? This blog outlines everything you need to know about the Dubai visit visa application process from Canada. You will be given a step-by-step process to follow when applying from Canada. We will also cover the types of Dubai visas available for Canadian passport holders.

The answer to this question depends on the duration of your stay in Dubai. You will not need to apply for a Dubai visa if you plan to stay less than 30 days in Dubai. Do keep in mind that this visa is only useable for tourism purposes and you cannot work during this period. 

You will typically only need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of your arrival in Dubai. You must also show that you have a return flight ticket or tickets for travel to another country after 30 days have passed. With these documents in hand, you can simply arrive in Dubai and get a visa on arrival. You will be able to visit the Dubai immigration office and get a 30-day visa stamp on your passport.

However, it is always better to call ahead and confirm with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs if you must obtain a visa before booking your flight. 

Passport

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Dubai and has sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Visa Application Form

Download the official visa application form from the GDRFA’s website and fill it out accurately and completely.

Passport-Size Photographs

Two recent passport-sized photographs meeting the specified size and format requirements are typically required.

Onward Travel Proof

You might need to provide a copy of your confirmed return flight ticket or onward travel proof showing that you will leave Dubai before your visa expires.

Accommodation Proof

Hotel booking confirmation or a letter from your host in Dubai might be required as proof of accommodation during your stay.

Financial Means Proof

Depending on the visa type and your situation, you might need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support your stay in Dubai. This could include bank statements, proof of employment, or a sponsor's letter.

Traveling with Children

If traveling with children, additional documents like birth certificates, parental consent letters, and proof of legal guardianship might be needed when traveling with one parent. 

Dubai Visa Types for Canadians

While there is no need to apply for a visa if you will be staying less than 30 days in Dubai, it becomes a necessity for longer stays. Here are the three most popular Dubai visa types of Canadians.    

Single Entry Visas

This is the most popular option for short-term trips. It allows single entries and comes in various durations, typically ranging from 14 days to 90 days. Processing times are generally faster compared to other visa types.

Multiple Entry Visas

Ideal for frequent travelers or those planning multiple visits within a specific timeframe, this visa allows multiple entries during its validity period, often 30, 60, or 90 days. The costs increase with the duration as some consultants charge up to $700 for a 90-day multiple-entry visa. 

Long Term Visas

This type of Dubai visa is for extended stays, typically valid for 3 or 6 months. It is suitable for individuals visiting family, exploring the city for an extended period, or potentially seeking employment opportunities. Processing times might be longer for this visa type, as additional documents are required including apostilled certificates.

Daily fines are imposed for exceeding your authorized visa stay duration. These fines vary depending on the number of days overstayed and can accumulate over time. Typically, the fine on your first overstay day is between 200 and 300 AED. Other risks include warnings, restrictions on future visa applications, and even potential detention or deportation from Dubai.

• Begin by choosing a visa category depending on how long you plan to stay in Dubai.
• Ensure you have all the necessary documents listed in the previous section ready for submission in Dubai. 
• Apply online or use the services of a visa consultant to process your application. 
• The submission method of your application form and documents will depend on whether you are applying directly or through a professional visa service. 
• Finally, pay the fee according to your visa type and receive your visa after processing by the GDRFA. 

Apostilled Canadian documents will be required for some Dubai visa types. You can submit your Canadian documents for apostille to our Toronto office by creating a free account on our portal. You can also use the contact form to ask any of your document verification related questions.