If you are currently in Dubai on a jobseeker visa and require additional time to find the right employment opportunity, you have the option to extend your visa. This article provides information on the application process, cost, and required documents for extending your jobseeker visa in Dubai.
A jobseeker visa allows individuals to visit the UAE and explore new job opportunities without the need for a host or sponsor within the country. The visa can be obtained for a validity period of 60, 90, or 120 days.
To apply for a visa extension, you can utilize the online services provided by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD). The GDRFAD website offers an extension service that allows you to extend your visit visa for the same duration as your original visa. For example, if you initially obtained a 60-day visit visa for job exploration, the extension will be granted for an additional 60 days.
Alternatively, you can visit an Amer centre in person to apply for the extension. Amer centres handle visit visa and residency applications on behalf of GDRFAD.
Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for a jobseeker visa extension:
Visit the website: smart.gdrfad.gov.ae
Click on ‘individuals’ and then select ‘Register now.’ If you are a visitor, create an account by providing your email address, full name, date of birth, and creating a password.
Enter the one-time password (OTP) sent to your registered email address to verify your account.
Access your personal dashboard and click on ‘New Application.’
Search for the service ‘Extending Visit Visa to Explore Job Opportunities’ and click on ‘Apply now.’
Fill out the application form for the visa extension.
Attach the required documents.
Pay the extension fee online using your debit or credit card.
After submitting your application, you will receive a reference number that allows you to track the status of your visa online. The extended visa is expected to be issued within two to four working days, and you will receive the extended entry permit via your registered email address.
Costs involved in the visa extension process include:
Visa extension fee: Dh600
Five percent Value Added Tax (VAT)
Additional fees apply if you are already within the country:
Fee inside the country: Dh500
Knowledge fee: Dh10
Innovation fee: Dh10
By following these steps and providing the necessary documents and fees, you can extend your jobseeker visa in Dubai and continue your search for employment opportunities.