How to apply for GCC Unified Visa 2026: Step-by-step guide, documents checklist for single entry to 6 Gulf countries with Schengen-style visa – The Times of India
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is moving forward with a Schengen-style unified tourist visa that will allow travellers to enter all six GCC member countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman, with a single permit. While official launch details are still being finalised and pilot phases are expected later in 2026, governments and travel experts say that the entire application will be completed online through a dedicated portal, streamlining what used to be six separate visa requests into one digital process.Once the system goes live, here is how applicants can expect to apply and what documents will likely be required.
Prepare your key documents for GCC Unified Visa
Before you even begin the online application, gather the essential paperwork that most unified visa systems, including those described in official plans, will require:
- Valid Passport – Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned travel date, with blank pages for visa stamping.
- Digital Photograph – A recent passport-style photo (colour, clear background) saved in the required digital format.
- Travel Itinerary – Details about your planned travel, including entry date, exit date, and a list of GCC countries you intend to visit.
- Proof of Accommodation – Hotel bookings or other confirmed accommodation across your multi-country itinerary.
- Return or Onward Ticket – An airline ticket showing you will leave the GCC region at the end of your visit.
- Travel Insurance – Medical/travel insurance covering the full duration of your stay in all GCC countries to protect against emergencies; likely a mandatory condition.
- Proof of Financial Means – Bank statements or similar documentation demonstrating you can cover expenses during your trip.
Other supporting documents (e.g., invitation letters, business letters) may be requested depending on your nationality or purpose of travel but the core list above forms the baseline expected for unified tourist visa applications.
Access the official GCC Unified Visa portal
When the unified GCC visa formally launches (likely late 2026 with pilot tests first before full rollout), authorities will open a central online portal where applicants submit their form and upload documents.
- The application will be 100% electronic, no need to visit embassies or consulates.
- Applicants will complete a single form covering all six countries.
- The portal is expected to guide users through the checklist, upload fields and fee payment.
While names and domain specifics of the platform have not yet been finalised publicly, it will function similarly to other e-visa systems with clear instructions and progress tracking.
Complete the application form for the GCC Unified Visa
Once on the portal:
- Enter Personal Details – Full name, date of birth, nationality and contact information.
- Enter Travel Details – Expected entry date, exit date and itinerary.
- Upload Documents – Passport, photo, tickets, hotel confirmations and insurance.
- Review and Confirm – Double-check all fields before submission.
This consolidated form replaces separate visa applications previously needed for each GCC country under current rules.
Pay the GCC Unified Visa fees online
Visa authorities are reportedly considering a fee in the US $100 to $150 range (roughly AED 367 to AED 550) for the unified visa, which will be competitive with existing single-country tourist permits while offering freer multi-nation travel once approved. Payment usually occurs at the end of the application process via secure online methods (credit card or international payment gateways). Ensure that your card supports international transactions.
Receive and download your e-visa
After submission and successful verification:
- You will receive an e-visa via email or through the portal dashboard.
- This document in PDF format will be your official permit to travel across all six GCC member states without separate
visas .
Print the visa (or save it on your phone) for presentation at immigration checkpoints upon arrival in the Gulf region.
Important tips before applying for the GCC Unified Visa
- Apply Well in Advance – Even though the process will be digital, authorities typically recommend applying at least 2-4 weeks ahead of your travel dates once the system goes live to allow time for processing.
- Check Nationality-Specific Rules – Some nationalities may have additional requirements (e.g., police clearances or additional proof of funds). Always check the portal’s guidance sections.
- Use Secure Platforms Only – Applications should only be submitted through the official GCC visa website. Beware of third-party sites charging extra fees or sharing data insecurely.
The GCC Unified Visa 2026 aims to dramatically simplify travel across the Gulf by allowing travellers to enter and move freely between the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman with a single online application and one set of documents instead of six.
Your step-by-step process to apply for the GCC Unified Visa will be:
- Gather your passport, itinerary, proof of funds, insurance and return ticket.
- Visit the unified e-visa portal once it launches.
- Complete the online form and upload required documents.
- Pay the visa fee securely online.
- Download and use your e-visa for travel throughout the GCC.
Though the final official rollout details including exact fees, validity periods and launch date are still being finalised, preparation now will help you be ready to apply smoothly when the system opens.