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What To Know
- For Nepali citizens planning to visit or work in Dubai, understanding the visa process is essential.
- Nepali travellers transiting through Dubai International Airport for a short layover can apply for a 48-hour or 96-hour transit visa.
- Receive your visa – Once approved, you’ll get an e-visa (via email) or a visa stamped on your passport.
Last Updated: November 2025
For Nepali citizens planning to visit or work in Dubai, understanding the visa process is essential. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has specific entry requirements for Nepali passport holders, and recent updates have introduced stricter regulations for certain visa types. This detailed guide explains all the visa options, requirements, and key information you need before applying.
Overview
Nepali passport holders must obtain a UAE visa before travelling. The UAE does not currently offer visa-on-arrival facilities for citizens of Nepal. Depending on your purpose — tourism, family visit, employment, or transit — there are several visa options available.
In 2025, the UAE authorities reinforced tighter screening measures for visit and employment visa applications from Nepal. While renewals and extensions for existing residents remain available, first-time applicants should be prepared for additional verification.
Types of UAE Visas for Nepali Citizens
1. Tourist / Visit Visa
The most common visa for Nepalis visiting Dubai is the tourist or visit visa. This allows a stay of 30 to 90 days and must be obtained in advance. A local sponsor, hotel, or authorized travel agency in the UAE typically facilitates the application.
2. Transit Visa
Nepali travellers transiting through Dubai International Airport for a short layover can apply for a 48-hour or 96-hour transit visa. To qualify, you must hold a confirmed onward ticket and a valid passport.
3. Employment / Work Visa
To work in Dubai, a Nepali citizen must be sponsored by a UAE-based employer. The employer handles the application process, which includes labour approval, a medical fitness test, and residence visa stamping once you arrive. Due to stricter oversight in 2025, work visa processing may take longer, and applicants are advised to verify company legitimacy before proceeding.
4. Family Visit Visa
If you have immediate family members legally residing in the UAE, they can sponsor your visit. Sponsors must meet the required income criteria and provide proof of relationship, accommodation, and valid residency. This visa is typically valid for 30 or 90 days, extendable upon approval.
Requirements for a UAE Visa (Nepali Applicants)
To apply for any UAE visa type, you generally need:
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A valid Nepali passport (minimum six months validity)
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Recent passport-size photographs with a white background
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Completed visa application form (through sponsor or travel agency)
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Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
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Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host’s residence details)
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Financial proof, such as recent bank statements, to show sufficient funds
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For family sponsorship: the sponsor’s UAE residence visa, Emirates ID, and tenancy contract
Application Process
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Choose the visa type – Determine whether you are travelling for tourism, work, or family purposes.
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Gather required documents – Collect all necessary paperwork and photographs.
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Submit through the correct channel – You can apply via a UAE-based sponsor, travel agency, or authorized online portal.
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Pay the visa fee – The cost depends on the visa type and duration.
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Wait for processing – Tourist visas typically take three to five working days, while employment visas may take longer.
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Receive your visa – Once approved, you’ll get an e-visa (via email) or a visa stamped on your passport.
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Travel and entry – Carry a printed copy of your visa and ensure your passport and tickets match your travel dates.
Visa Fees and Validity
Visa fees for Nepali citizens vary depending on duration and type:
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14-Day Tourist Visa: Around USD 90–110
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30-Day Tourist Visa: Around USD 110–150
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90-Day Visit Visa: Around USD 300–400
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Transit Visa (48–96 hours): USD 30–60
Processing times are typically three to five business days for tourist visas. Express or premium services can sometimes expedite approval.
Common Challenges for Nepali Applicants
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Visa Suspensions: There have been periodic suspensions or stricter rules on new visit visas for Nepalis in recent months. Always verify the latest status before applying.
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Incomplete Applications: Missing documents or mismatched information are major causes of rejection.
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Unverified Agents: Many applicants have faced fraud from unofficial visa agents. Only apply through verified agencies or sponsors.
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Financial Proof: Insufficient funds or unclear travel intent may lead to rejection.
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Employer Verification: For work visas, ensure that the company offering employment is legally registered and approved by the UAE Ministry of Human Resources.
Tips for a Smooth Application
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Start the visa process at least four weeks before travel.
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Use official or government-approved channels only.
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Make sure your passport, return ticket, and accommodation details are consistent.
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Keep a copy of all your application documents and payment receipts.
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Stay updated with official UAE immigration and embassy announcements.
Final Thoughts
Dubai continues to be a top destination for Nepali travellers, offering job opportunities, tourism, and family reunions. However, with evolving immigration rules, preparation and accuracy are key. Always apply early, verify information from official sources, and use trusted channels to ensure your visa process goes smoothly.
With the right documentation and careful planning, obtaining a UAE visa as a Nepali citizen remains very achievable — paving the way for an exciting journey to one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
