UAE Visa Rules for U.S. Green Card Holders
If you hold a U.S. Green Card and plan to travel to Dubai or another emirate in the UAE, your visa requirements depend primarily on your passport nationality, not simply on your U.S. permanent-resident status. Some Green Card holders may qualify for visa-free entry, visa on arrival or a residence-based UAE entry route, while others need a pre-arranged tourist visa before traveling.
This 2026 guide covers UAE and Dubai visa eligibility, passport-specific rules, required documents, current service fees, processing time and the online application process.
Do Green Card Holders Need a UAE Visa?
Not every U.S. Green Card holder follows the same UAE visa rule. The answer depends primarily on the passport being used for travel.
A Green Card is evidence that you are a lawful permanent resident of the United States. It is not a U.S. passport and does not give a foreign passport holder the same UAE entry treatment as a U.S. citizen.
Some passport nationalities have visa-free or visa-on-arrival arrangements. Selected nationalities may also qualify for a UAE residence-based entry category because they hold qualifying U.S. residence. Other travellers need a pre-arranged UAE tourist visa before departure.
Green Card ≠ U.S. Passport
U.S. permanent residence and U.S. citizenship are different immigration statuses. Your foreign passport nationality remains relevant to UAE entry.
Nationality Comes First
UAE entry rules are generally determined according to the passport presented for travel and the applicable visa category.
Residence Can Matter
For selected passport nationalities, holding valid residence in the United States can provide an additional UAE entry route.
Does a U.S. Green Card qualify you for UAE visa on arrival?
Not automatically. There is no universal UAE visa-on-arrival benefit for every person holding a U.S. Green Card.
One clear Green Card-specific route applies to qualifying Indian citizens. GDRFA Dubai provides a 14-day visitor visa-on-arrival service for Indian citizens holding an ordinary Indian passport together with a qualifying U.S. Permanent Resident Card. The relevant validity conditions must be satisfied.
UAE residence-based eligibility was also expanded in June 2026. Eligible nationalities now include India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya and South Africa when the applicant holds valid residence issued by the United States or another country included in the official category.
Does a U.S. Green Card holder need a Dubai visa?
Dubai is part of the United Arab Emirates. For tourism, the relevant immigration question is therefore whether you have the correct permission to enter the UAE.
If your passport qualifies for an applicable visa-free, arrival or residence-based route, a separate pre-arranged tourist visa may not be necessary. If your passport requires advance permission, obtain the appropriate UAE visa before travelling.
UAE Visa Requirements for U.S. Green Card Holders
Requirements vary according to nationality and the type of UAE entry permission being used. As a practical starting point, prepare the following:
- Valid passport, normally with at least six months remaining
- Valid U.S. Permanent Resident Card / Green Card
- Recent passport-style colour photograph
- Return or onward flight details where applicable
- Hotel booking or UAE accommodation information where requested
- Applicable UAE visa or entry-permit information
- Travel insurance where required by the applicable route
- Nationality-specific supporting documents when requested
UAE Visa Rules by Passport Nationality
Your passport nationality is the most important factor in determining whether you need a UAE visa, even when you hold a U.S. Green Card.
The examples below explain the main routes relevant to commonly searched Green Card-holder nationalities. Immigration eligibility should still be checked for each traveller before booking or applying.
Indian Green Card Holders
RESIDENCE-BASED ROUTE AVAILABLEQualifying Indian citizens holding an ordinary Indian passport and an eligible U.S. Green Card may use the established 14-day GDRFA visitor visa-on-arrival route when the required validity conditions are satisfied.
India is also included in the wider UAE residence-based entry categories covering 14-day and 60-day options.
Pakistani Green Card Holders
CHECK PRE-ARRANGED VISAA U.S. Green Card does not currently place Pakistani passport holders within the June 2026 residence-based nationality group.
Pakistani travellers who require advance UAE permission should check current application eligibility and the available pre-arranged tourist visa route.
Filipino Green Card Holders
2026 RESIDENCE-BASED ELIGIBILITYPhilippine nationals were added to the UAE residence-based entry category in June 2026. A qualifying Philippine passport holder with valid U.S. residence may be eligible for the applicable 14-day or 60-day category.
Indonesian Green Card Holders
2026 RESIDENCE-BASED ELIGIBILITYIndonesian nationals holding qualifying U.S. residence are included in the expanded UAE residence-based entry category announced in June 2026.
Vietnamese Green Card Holders
2026 RESIDENCE-BASED ELIGIBILITYVietnamese passport holders with qualifying U.S. residence are included in the residence-based UAE entry category introduced for Vietnam in 2026.
Thai Green Card Holders
2026 RESIDENCE-BASED ELIGIBILITYThai nationals holding qualifying U.S. residence are included in the expanded 2026 residence-based entry category.
Kenyan Green Card Holders
2026 RESIDENCE-BASED ELIGIBILITYKenyan passport holders with qualifying U.S. residence were added to the residence-based UAE entry category in June 2026.
South African Green Card Holders
2026 RESIDENCE-BASED ELIGIBILITYSouth African passport holders with qualifying U.S. residence are also included in the expanded UAE residence-based category.
Other Nationalities
CHECK PASSPORT RULEA Green Card can be useful evidence of U.S. residence, but it does not automatically remove the UAE visa requirement for nationalities outside a qualifying residence-based category.
Service Availability
CHECK BEFORE APPLYINGDubaiVisa.com does not currently process applications for Bangladesh or Afghanistan passport holders. A Green Card does not override current DubaiVisa.com service restrictions.
Dubai Visa for Green Card Holders
Travellers often search specifically for a Dubai visa for Green Card holders. The underlying immigration question is still based on UAE entry requirements: which passport are you using, and does your passport and residence status qualify for an arrival, residence-based or pre-arranged route?
Can a Green Card holder get a Dubai tourist visa?
Yes. A Green Card holder using a passport that requires advance UAE entry permission may apply for a pre-arranged tourist visa when that nationality and applicant profile are supported.
DubaiVisa.com provides private assistance with eligible tourist and transit visa applications. Visa approval and admission remain subject to the relevant UAE immigration authority.
Dubai visa requirements for Green Card holders
For a pre-arranged UAE tourist visa, common documents include the passport, Green Card, recent photograph and requested travel information. Additional documents may be requested according to nationality and application profile.
How much is a Dubai visa for Green Card holders?
There is no single price that applies to every Green Card holder. Travellers using an official residence-based route pay the applicable authority charges for that route. Travellers applying through DubaiVisa.com pay the published assisted-service price for the pre-arranged visa selected.
How long does a Dubai visa take?
DubaiVisa.com normally targets standard processing within 24–72 working hours after complete documents are accepted. Immigration checks, additional-document requests, public holidays, weekends and peak periods can extend processing.
How long can a Green Card holder stay in Dubai?
Your U.S. Green Card does not determine how long you may stay in Dubai. Your permitted stay depends on the UAE entry permission issued or granted to you.
Depending on the applicable route, this could include a residence-based 14-day or 60-day category or an eligible pre-arranged 14-, 30- or 60-day tourist visa.
UAE Tourist Visa Options for Green Card Holders
A Green Card holder may reach the UAE through different entry routes. The correct option depends on passport nationality and current eligibility.
Visa on Arrival
Available where UAE rules specifically provide an arrival-based facility. Holding a Green Card alone is not sufficient for every nationality.
A specific example is the GDRFA 14-day route for qualifying Indian citizens holding an eligible U.S. Green Card.
Residence-Based UAE Entry
Available to selected nationalities holding valid residence issued by the United States or another qualifying country.
Current eligible nationalities include India, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya and South Africa.
Pre-Arranged UAE Tourist Visa
Used by eligible travellers who need UAE entry permission before departure or who select an available pre-arranged visa service.
Pre-arranged UAE tourist visa options
Depending on nationality eligibility and current immigration availability, DubaiVisa.com may offer:
48-Hour Transit
For an eligible very short stopover with onward travel.
96-Hour Transit
For an eligible longer stopover before onward travel.
14-Day Single Entry
For an eligible brief holiday, family visit or short UAE trip.
30-Day Single Entry
Suitable for a standard holiday or one UAE visit.
60-Day Single Entry
For a longer eligible holiday or family stay.
Multiple Entry
30- and 60-day multiple-entry options for eligible repeat UAE travel.
Documents Required for a UAE Visa
Documents for Green Card holders applying for a UAE tourist visa
Prepare clear, readable files before starting an online application. Additional evidence may be requested depending on nationality and the applicant profile.
- Passport bio page, normally valid for at least six months
- U.S. Green Card copy, front and back
- Recent passport-style colour photograph
- Passport cover when specifically requested
- Return or onward flight information where required
- Hotel reservation or UAE accommodation details where required
- Travel insurance where required for the visa route
- National identity card for applicable nationalities
How to Apply for a UAE Visa as a Green Card Holder
If a pre-arranged UAE visa is the correct route for your passport, the application can be completed online.
Check Passport Eligibility
Start with the nationality shown on the passport you will present when entering the UAE.
Determine Your Route
Check whether visa-free, arrival, residence-based or advance entry permission applies.
Select the Visa
If advance permission is required, choose the appropriate stay duration and entry type.
Prepare Documents
Prepare your passport, Green Card, photograph and requested travel documents.
Submit Application
Complete the applicant information and upload clear document copies.
Review the Details
Check names, passport details, visa option and application information before payment.
Pay the Fee
Review the final checkout amount and complete payment for the selected service.
Receive Your Visa
If approved, receive the electronic visa and check the issued details before travel.
UAE Visa Processing Time for Green Card Holders
Holding a U.S. Green Card does not automatically make a pre-arranged UAE visa application faster. Processing depends on the passport, application route, completeness of documents and immigration assessment.
Standard Processing
Normally targeted within 24–72 working hours after a complete application is accepted.
Express Processing
Priority handling may be available for selected passports and applications. Confirm availability before submission.
Possible Delays
Extra immigration checks, incomplete files, holidays, weekends and peak travel periods can extend processing.
UAE Visa Fees for Green Card Holders
The table below shows DubaiVisa.com’s published standard prices for pre-arranged assisted tourist and transit visa services. They are not the same as government-only charges for an official residence-based or airport-issued route.
| Visa Option | Entry | Published Price | Suitable For | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48-Hour Transit | Single | US$100 | Very short eligible stopover | Check eligibility |
| 96-Hour Transit | Single | US$110 | Longer eligible stopover | View option |
| 14-Day Tourist | Single | US$122 | Brief holiday or family visit | Check eligibility |
| 30-Day Tourist POPULAR | Single | US$125 | Standard holiday or family trip | View option |
| 60-Day Tourist | Single | US$220 | Longer tourism or family stay | View option |
| 30-Day Tourist | Multiple | US$259 | Several eligible UAE entries | View option |
| 60-Day Tourist | Multiple | US$359 | Longer repeat travel | Check eligibility |
Can Green Card Holders Visit Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Other Emirates?
Yes, provided you hold valid permission to enter and remain in the United Arab Emirates.
Dubai is one of seven UAE emirates. A standard UAE tourist entry permission is not normally a “Dubai-only” visa simply because the traveller arrives at Dubai International Airport.
For example, a traveller may enter through Dubai and visit Abu Dhabi during the same authorised UAE stay, subject to the conditions printed on the visa or entry permission.
Green Card Holder Traveling to Dubai From the USA
Travelling from the United States to the UAE involves two separate immigration checks: your eligibility to enter the UAE and the documentation you need to return to the United States.
Before Leaving the USA
Check that your passport, Green Card and other travel documents will remain valid for your planned journey.
At Airline Check-In
Carry the UAE visa or evidence of the applicable entry route if one is required for your passport.
Entering the UAE
Present the passport and any visa, Green Card or residence evidence required for your applicable UAE entry route.
Returning to the USA
Carry the documentation required to establish your U.S. permanent-resident status when returning from temporary international travel.
Do I need my U.S. Green Card when returning to the USA?
A U.S. lawful permanent resident seeking to return to the United States after temporary travel abroad should normally carry a valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card together with the appropriate travel documents.
If your Green Card is expired, lost, damaged or supported by an extension notice, or if you plan a long period outside the United States, check the applicable U.S. return-document requirements before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Green Card holders need a visa for UAE?
It depends on passport nationality. A U.S. Green Card does not provide universal visa-free UAE entry. Some nationalities qualify for an arrival or residence-based route, while others need a pre-arranged UAE visa.
Do Green Card holders need a visa for Dubai?
Dubai follows the applicable UAE entry rules. Whether you need advance permission depends mainly on the passport you use for travel and any applicable residence-based eligibility.
Can a U.S. Green Card holder get a UAE visa on arrival?
Some can, but a Green Card does not create a universal visa-on-arrival entitlement. Qualifying Indian citizens holding an eligible U.S. Green Card have a specific 14-day GDRFA visitor visa-on-arrival route. Other selected nationalities may qualify under wider residence-based UAE entry categories.
Is a Green Card the same as U.S. citizenship for UAE visa purposes?
No. A Green Card proves U.S. permanent residence. A U.S. citizen travels using a U.S. passport, and UAE entry treatment can therefore differ.
Does my passport nationality matter if I have a U.S. Green Card?
Yes. Passport nationality remains a primary factor when determining UAE visa eligibility. U.S. residence provides an additional benefit only where the applicable UAE rules specifically allow it.
How much is a Dubai visa for Green Card holders?
There is no single Green Card-holder fee. DubaiVisa.com currently lists assisted-service prices starting from US$100 for an eligible 48-hour transit visa. Tourist visa prices vary according to duration and entry type.
How long does a UAE visa take for Green Card holders?
DubaiVisa.com normally targets standard pre-arranged tourist visa processing within 24–72 working hours after complete documents are accepted. Additional immigration checks can extend the timeline.
Can Green Card holders visit Dubai and Abu Dhabi on the same UAE visa?
Generally yes. A valid standard UAE tourist visa is not normally limited to Dubai only. Travellers can generally visit other UAE emirates during the permitted stay, subject to the conditions of their entry permission.
Can I apply for a UAE visa online?
Yes. Travellers who require a supported pre-arranged UAE tourist visa can complete the DubaiVisa.com application online, upload the requested documents and receive application updates electronically.
What documents do Green Card holders need for a UAE visa?
Common documents include a valid passport, U.S. Green Card, recent photograph and requested travel information such as return flights, accommodation details and any nationality-specific supporting documents.
Check Your Passport Route Before You Apply
Your U.S. Green Card can affect UAE eligibility, but your passport nationality remains the starting point. Check whether an official arrival or residence-based route applies before purchasing a pre-arranged tourist visa.
Official rule references: UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), June 25, 2026 update on the Entry Visa for Nationals of Certain Countries; GDRFA Dubai visa-on-arrival service for qualifying Indian citizens residing in the United States, United Kingdom or European Union; and applicable GDRFA UAE tourist visa services. UAE entry requirements can change, so verify the applicable route before departure.
Disclaimer: DubaiVisa.com is a private UAE visa assistance platform operated by Al Hadaf Tourism LLC under DTCM Licence No. 589515 and is not affiliated with the UAE Government, ICP or GDRFA. Visa issuance, immigration assessment and admission to the UAE remain subject to the relevant authorities. Information on this page is general travel guidance and does not guarantee approval or entry.
