The UAE will grant visa‑on‑arrival to eligible Filipino travellers from June 25. The announcement was made by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, confirming the start date.
Eligibility and Application Process
Filipino citizens holding a Philippine passport may qualify if they already possess a valid visa, residence permit, or Green Card from the United States, a European Union member state, Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Canada or New Zealand. The rule applies only to those who have one of these approved documents at the time they reach the border. The inclusion of these specific countries reflects the fact that many Filipino expatriates already hold residence status there, making the transition to UAE travel smoother.
Upon arrival at any UAE port of entry, passengers must present their Philippine passport together with the qualifying visa or residency permit. Immigration officers will then conduct standard checks and, if everything is in order, issue the visa‑on-arrival on the spot. Travelers are advised to keep both passport and supporting document ready for inspection to avoid delays.
"The visa-on-arrival privilege extended to Filipino citizens by the UAE was in view of the excellent bilateral relations between the Philippines and the UAE,"
— DFA
The DFA emphasized that the privilege underscores the long‑standing partnership between Manila and Abu Dhabi.
Visa Options and Fees
Two short‑stay options are available. A 14‑day visa costs Dh100 and can be extended once for an additional 14 days at a fee of Dh250. The 14‑day visa, priced at Dh100, offers a cost‑effective option for short business trips or weekend tourism, while the 60‑day visa at Dh250 caters to longer stays such as extended projects or family visits. Alternatively, a 60‑day visa is offered for Dh250 and cannot be extended under any circumstances.
All fees are payable at the point of issuance, and the visa‑on‑arrival is subject to the same security and health checks applied to other visitors. The new facility is expected to streamline travel for thousands of frequent visitors and residents who already maintain ties to the Emirates.
The introduction of this scheme underscores the strong economic cooperation and the sizable Filipino community that lives and works across the UAE. With a growing Filipino community contributing to sectors such as construction, hospitality and services, officials say the move reflects the deepening people‑to‑people ties between the two nations.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UAE visa-on-arrival policy for Filipino travellers?
The UAE will grant visa‑on‑arrival to eligible Filipino travellers from June 25, offering 14‑day and 60‑day options with transparent fees.
How much does a 14-day UAE visa-on-arrival cost for Filipino citizens?
A 14‑day visa costs Dh 100 and can be extended once for an additional 14 days for a fee of Dh 250.
What documents do I need to present for a UAE visa-on-arrival as a Filipino traveller?
Travelers must show their Philippine passport together with a valid visa, residence permit, or Green Card from the United States, an EU member state, Australia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Canada or New Zealand.
Can I extend my 14-day UAE visa-on-arrival?
Yes, the 14‑day visa can be extended once for another 14 days, with an extension fee of Dh 250.
How long is the 60-day UAE visa-on-arrival valid for Filipino citizens?
The 60‑day visa is valid for 60 days and cannot be extended under any circumstances.
What is the purpose of the UAE visa-on-arrival policy for Filipino travellers?
The policy underscores the long‑standing partnership between Manila and Abu Dhabi and aims to streamline travel for thousands of frequent visitors and residents.
