What is the primary change for entry visa holders in the UAE?

Foreign nationals holding an entry visa can now convert it to a residence permit without having to leave and re-enter the country, as confirmed by the Abu Dhabi Residence Office.

How long are most entry visas valid for and can they be extended?

Most entry visas are valid for 60 days and can be extended twice for an additional 30 days each, allowing a maximum legal stay of 120 days within the UAE without exiting.

What is the fine for overstaying an entry visa in the UAE?

The fine for overstaying an entry visa is AED 100 per day, calculated from 10 days after the visa's official expiry date, providing a brief grace period.

Are there any groups exempt from the visa extension rules?

Yes, visitors/tourists residing in GCC countries, residents accompanying GCC nationals, special entry permit holders, and individuals on 96-hour special mission permits are exempt and cannot extend their visas.

Which government office confirmed this rule?

The Abu Dhabi Residence Office confirmed that foreign nationals can convert their entry visas to residence permits while remaining inside the UAE.

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Residency·28 October 2026

Abu Dhabi Residence Office Confirms In-Country Visa-to-Residency Conversion for Foreigners

Foreign nationals in the UAE can now convert their entry visas to residence permits without exiting the country, a rule confirmed by the Abu Dhabi Residence Office that applies to various visa categories.

The Abu Dhabi Residence Office has officially confirmed that foreign nationals holding entry visas can transition to a residence permit while remaining within the United Arab Emirates. This policy streamlines the process for individuals seeking to establish residency for purposes such as employment, tourism, medical treatment, or family visits.

Extension and Grace Period

Most entry visas are valid for 60 days, with the possibility of two 30-day extensions, allowing a total stay of up to 120 days within the UAE. This eliminates the previous requirement for individuals to leave the country for visa renewals or to finalise residency applications. For those on an employment entry visa, the 60-day period is provided to either secure a residence permit or apply for an extension before expiry.

Overstay Fines and Exemptions

Foreigners who overstay their entry visa will face a fine of AED 100 per day. This penalty begins 10 days after the visa's expiration, providing a brief grace period. However, certain groups are exempt from these extension rules and must adhere strictly to their initial visa terms:

Visitors and tourists who are residents in GCC countries
Residents accompanying GCC nationals
Individuals holding special entry permits
Those on 96-hour permits for special missions

These categories cannot apply for extensions and must plan their departure within the original visa validity period.

Frequently asked

Questions, answered

What is the primary change for entry visa holders in the UAE?: Foreign nationals holding an entry visa can now convert it to a residence permit without having to leave and re-enter the country, as confirmed by the Abu Dhabi Residence Office.
How long are most entry visas valid for and can they be extended?: Most entry visas are valid for 60 days and can be extended twice for an additional 30 days each, allowing a maximum legal stay of 120 days within the UAE without exiting.
What is the fine for overstaying an entry visa in the UAE?: The fine for overstaying an entry visa is AED 100 per day, calculated from 10 days after the visa's official expiry date, providing a brief grace period.
Are there any groups exempt from the visa extension rules?: Yes, visitors/tourists residing in GCC countries, residents accompanying GCC nationals, special entry permit holders, and individuals on 96-hour special mission permits are exempt and cannot extend their visas.
Which government office confirmed this rule?: The Abu Dhabi Residence Office confirmed that foreign nationals can convert their entry visas to residence permits while remaining inside the UAE.

Reported by

Google News — UAE Visa & Residency · Google News — UAE Visa Rules by Nationality

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This brief was summarised and rewritten by Gaia Living from public reporting. Figures and details reflect the original sources.

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