KOCHIN- India has expanded its Visa-on-Arrival scheme for UAE nationals, broadening the number of eligible entry points and significantly easing travel formalities for passengers flying from major carriers such as Emirates (EK) and Etihad (EY).
With the inclusion of new airports such as Cochin (COK), Calicut (CCJ), and Ahmedabad (AMD), the initiative strengthens mobility links between the two countries. The expansion aligns with India’s wider strategy to streamline arrivals for foreign visitors and support the increasing passenger flows between the UAE and India.
Expanded Airport List
More Entry Points
India now offers Visa-on-Arrival at nine international airports, adding Cochin, Calicut, and Ahmedabad to the existing list of Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Kochi. This update gives UAE travelers more flexibility when choosing flight routes and arrival locations.
Authorities state that the change also supports aviation growth, as airlines serving these airports can expect greater passenger volumes from short-notice and repeat travelers. The facility is available throughout the year without any limits on annual usage.
Officials also say the update reflects higher demand from UAE travelers and reinforces an already strong bilateral travel corridor.
Eligibility Rules
The VoA is granted exclusively to UAE citizens who have previously held an Indian e-Visa or a regular paper visa.
This requirement remains essential for approval at immigration counters. However, the scheme does not apply to UAE nationals with Pakistani lineage through a parent or grandparent, and such travelers must obtain a regular visa from Indian missions in the UAE.
Indian officials encourage first-time visitors to use an e-Visa or regular visa and rely on the VoA for subsequent trips. This sequencing ensures accurate records while allowing returning travelers to use faster arrival procedures.
Purpose and Stay Duration
Travel Categories Covered
The Visa-on-Arrival supports business travel, tourism, medical visits, and participation in conferences. Once issued, it permits a stay of up to 60 days.
Travelers may enter India twice within those 60 days if granted a double-entry VoA. The visa cannot be converted or extended under any circumstances.
Officials highlight that unlimited annual usage is a central benefit of the update. This flexibility encourages frequent travel for family visits, medical treatment, or commercial engagements.
Documentation Requirements
To qualify, travelers must carry a passport with at least six months’ validity and two blank pages. Required documents include a completed VoA application form, a disembarkation card, and recent passport-sized photographs, according to Gulf News.
Officers may also request proof of funds, accommodation details, and a return or onward ticket.
The VoA form may be submitted in advance online or completed upon arrival. A fee of Rs 2,000 per traveler, including children, must be paid before the visa is issued.
Bottom Line
India’s wider access to Visa-on-Arrival for UAE nationals marks a major step toward making travel more efficient and predictable.
By expanding the number of eligible airports and removing annual usage limits, the policy enhances convenience for passengers and supports stronger aviation and tourism ties between India and the UAE.
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