Going to the UAE? Here’s what Filipino passport holders need to know about the updated visa-on-arrival rules
Planning a trip to Dubai or Abu Dhabi anytime soon? If you’re a UAE-bound Filipino traveler, the Department of Foreign Affairs rolled out updated guidelines for those looking to avail of the country's visa-on-arrival guidelines—provided you hold the right credentials.
Under the revised guidelines, Filipino passport holders may avail of the visa-on-arrival if they have a valid visa or residence permit issued by the United States, a country in the European Union, or the United Kingdom.
Filipinos who hold valid residence permits from Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, Canada, Singapore, and New Zealand are also eligible.
Eligible travelers can choose between two visa-on-arrival options based on their length of stay. The 14-day visa costs AED 100 (P1,682) and offers a one-time 14-day extension for AED 250 (P4,205). Alternatively, the 60-day visa costs AED 250, though it cannot be extended.
Both your Philippine passport and your qualifying foreign visa or residence permit must have at least six months of validity left when you apply.
You can secure your visa directly at UAE airport immigration counters or apply ahead of time via the ICP Smart Services website, though skipping the airport lines when you apply online comes with an extra AED 150 (P2,523) processing fee.
Just remember that final admission into the country always remains subject to the assessment and approval of UAE immigration authorities, so make sure all your papers are in order before heading to the gate.
