Eligible Filipinos can now apply for UAE’s pre-approved 14-day entry permit

Filipino nationals who hold valid residence permits from certain countries are now eligible for the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) pre-approved 14-day visit entry permit when traveling on the country’s flag carrier, Emirates, according to VFS Global, the airline’s official visa service provider, on Wednesday.

This follows VFS Global’s announcement in a statement that the entry permit program now covers nationals of the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, Indonesia, Kenya, and Vietnam traveling on Emirates with a confirmed onward or return ticket.

Jiten Vyas, chief commercial officer and head of business development at VFS Global, said the expansion marks a step forward in enhancing the travel experience for visitors to the UAE.

“By leveraging our long-standing partnership with Emirates and our digital capabilities, we are enabling a faster, more seamless visa application process that supports the UAE’s vision of being one of the most accessible and attractive destinations globally,” Mr. Vyas said in a statement.

To qualify, Filipino nationals must hold a valid residence permit with at least six months’ validity from Australia, Canada, European Union member states, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, the United Kingdom, or a valid United States Green Card.

Applicants must also plan to stay in the UAE for more than 48 hours but no longer than 14 days, with their intended date of entry falling within 30 days from the date of application. The permit is available exclusively to passengers traveling on Emirates.

Visa applications will be processed through VFS Global’s Dubai Visa Processing Centre platform. — Edg Adrian A. Eva