From November 1, 2025, Indian expatriates in the UAE face significant changes including major imports in financial transactions, Aadhaar updates, visa policies, and passport services. These regulations aim to ease services while ensuring security and compliance with both Indian and UAE authorities.
Starting November 1, 2025, Indian expats in the UAE will have to adapt to several new rules across financial, identity, and visa domains designed to streamline processes and enhance security.
Key Updates on Financial Services
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Indian GST slabs revert to two main rates; luxury and sin goods face a 40% GST, affecting expat purchases and sending money home.
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Paytm introduces international UPI services for UAE NRIs, enabling seamless transactions between NRE/NRO accounts and India without forex charges.
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National Pension System (NPS) to Universal Pension System (UPS) migration deadline extended till November 30 for UAE-based Indian government employees.
Aadhaar & Passport Upgrades
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Aadhaar update process goes fully digital for NRIs in UAE with expanded document options and cross-verification for faster approvals.
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Introduction of chip-enabled e-passports with biometric security features aims to hasten immigration and prevent forgery; new application portal mandatory for all passport-related services.
Visa & Residency Regulations
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The UAE’s new visit visa rules offer extended stays (60–90 days) and multiple-entry options for Indian travelers, enhancing convenience.
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Visa overstaying penalties are now stricter; grace periods have been withdrawn.
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The 5-year renewable retiree visa program allows older Indian expatriates to live in UAE with ease based on income or property criteria.
These developments reflect ongoing efforts by both Indian and UAE governments to simplify expatriate life, improve security, and encourage investments and remittances between the two nations while protecting regulatory compliance.
Sources: Gulf News, Times of India, DD News, Indian Embassy Abu Dhabi, Moneycontrol