India expands visa-on-arrival access for UAE nationals to 9 major airports — all you need to know

India just made travel easier for UAE nationals — Visa-on-Arrival now available at nine major airports.

India has taken a significant step to make travel easier for UAE nationals, one of its largest and most frequent visitor groups. In a major boost to tourism, business travel, and medical mobility, the Government of India has expanded its Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) facility to three additional airports—Kochi, Calicut, and Ahmedabad. This means UAE travellers can now enjoy quicker, hassle-free entry at nine major airports, including New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.

The expansion comes at a time when travel between India and the UAE is at an all-time high, supported by strong diaspora links, booming trade relations, and dense flight connectivity. By widening the VoA network, India aims to simplify last-minute travel, strengthen tourism flows, and deepen cultural and economic ties between the two countries.

تم تمديد تأشيرة عند الوصول لمواطني دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة لتشمل 3 مطارات إضافية في الهند.
متاحة الآن في كوتشي وكاليكوت وأحمد آباد إلى جانب بنغالور وتشيناي ودلهي وحيدر آباد وكولكاتا ومومباي.
للتفاصيل يمكن مسح الرابط: https://t.co/wLOyc5wX5v pic.twitter.com/vCH3imby7H

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— India in UAE (@IndembAbuDhabi) November 19, 2025

What’s New: 3 More VoA Airports and Why They Matter

Kochi, Calicut, and Ahmedabad have now joined India’s Visa-on-Arrival network for UAE nationals, taking the total to nine international airports. Each of these new additions brings strategic travel value: Kochi serves as Kerala’s cultural gateway with its backwaters and colonial charm; Calicut attracts visitors with its spice-rich history, coastal beauty, and culinary heritage; and Ahmedabad, a UNESCO World Heritage City, blends vibrant culture with strong business potential.

Who Is Eligible for Visa-on-Arrival?

UAE nationals qualify for Visa-on-Arrival if they:

• Have previously obtained an Indian e-Visa or regular visa (even if unused).
• Hold a passport valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages.
• Are visiting for tourism, business, conferences, or medical purposes.
• Do not stay beyond 60 days.
• Do not have parents or grandparents who were born in, or permanently reside in, Pakistan.

How to Apply for Visa-on-Arrival

On arrival, UAE travellers must submit:

• Annexure-A (VoA form).
• Disembarkation card.

Travellers may also be required to present proof of sufficient funds, confirmed accommodation details, and a return or onward ticket while completing the process.

Visa Fee and Validity

• Fee: Rs 2,000 per passenger (including children).
• Validity: Up to 60 days.
• Entries: Double-entry permitted within 60 days.

There is no limit on how many times a UAE national can avail the VoA facility.

Why This Matters

India is among the top travel destinations for UAE residents, thanks to strong family ties, thriving trade, cultural affinity, and excellent air connectivity. With the expanded Visa-on-Arrival network, travel is set to become even more convenient—encouraging higher tourism arrivals, supporting business travel, boosting medical tourism, and enabling more spontaneous, last-minute trips. The move further strengthens the already deep-rooted economic and cultural relationship between India and the UAE.

A Big Step for India–UAE Travel

With nine airports now offering Visa-on-Arrival, India has made itself more accessible than ever for UAE nationals. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway, attending a business meeting, or seeking medical care, the expanded VoA facility promises a faster, smoother, and traveller-friendly entry experience.