Dubai Visa for U.S. Green Card Holders – Complete Guide
If you hold a U.S. Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) and are planning to visit Dubai, it’s important to understand how UAE visa rules work. Many travelers assume that a Green Card gives visa-free access to Dubai, but that is not always true.
Dubai visa eligibility depends mainly on your passport nationality, not your U.S. residency status.
Do Green Card Holders Need a Visa for Dubai?
Yes, in most cases.
A U.S. Green Card does not automatically grant visa-free entry to Dubai or the UAE.
Your visa requirement depends on the country that issued your passport:
If your passport country qualifies for visa-free entry or visa on arrival, you can enter Dubai without applying in advance.
If your passport country does not qualify, you must apply for a Dubai tourist visa before traveling, even if you hold a valid Green Card.
Special Case: Indian Passport + U.S. Green Card
If you are an Indian citizen and hold a valid U.S. Green Card, you are eligible for a 14-day visa on arrival in Dubai.
Key points:
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months
Your Green Card must also be valid
The visa on arrival is single entry
It can usually be extended once inside the UAE
This benefit is specific to Indian passport holders and does not apply to most other nationalities.
What If Your Passport Is From Another Country?
If you hold a passport from countries such as:
Pakistan
Bangladesh
Philippines
Nepal
Sri Lanka
Egypt
Nigeria
Morocco
Many African or Asian countries
You must apply for a Dubai visa in advance, even if you live in the USA as a permanent resident.
Your Green Card helps prove residency but does not replace the visa requirement.
Dubai Tourist Visa Options for Green Card Holders
If you need to apply in advance, these are the most common visa types:
30-Day Tourist Visa
Single or multiple entry
Suitable for short vacations or family visits
60-Day Tourist Visa
Single or multiple entry
Ideal for longer stays or flexible travel plans
Transit Visa (48 or 96 Hours)
For short stopovers through Dubai
Requires confirmed onward travel
Documents Required
When applying for a Dubai visa as a Green Card holder, you typically need:
Passport copy (minimum 6 months validity)
U.S. Green Card copy (front and back)
Passport-size photo
Confirmed or tentative flight details
Hotel booking or address in Dubai
Email address for visa delivery
Additional documents may be requested depending on nationality.
Processing Time
Standard processing: 2–5 working days
Express options may be available for urgent travel
Processing times may vary during peak seasons or holidays
Important Things to Know
Visa rules are based on passport nationality, not U.S. residency
Each traveler, including children, needs their own visa
Your Green Card must remain valid during your trip
Overstaying your visa can result in fines and travel bans
Always apply early to avoid last-minute issues
Can Green Card Holders Work or Study on a Tourist Visa?
No.
A Dubai tourist visa is only for tourism or short visits. You cannot work, study, or conduct paid activities on a tourist visa. Separate permits are required for employment or long-term stay.
Final Summary
A U.S. Green Card alone does not guarantee entry to Dubai
Visa requirements depend on your passport
Indian passport holders with a Green Card can get visa on arrival
Most other Green Card holders must apply online in advance
Applying early ensures smooth and stress-free travel
Dubai Visa for US Permanent Residents Apply Online Get Approved Fast
