Ok to Board (OTB) Process for Different Types of Visas

 If you are flying to Dubai or any of the other Gulf countries not just need a visa but also an Ok to Board status. This applies to travelers from countries in the Asian sub-continent such as India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. The UAE OK To Board (OTB) process after it was observed that numerous travelers from these nations were traveling to the UAE with false visas. Read on to know more about this process and how to go about it.

 

About OK to Board

The OK to Board process was initially implemented by the UAE to curb people travelling with false visas to their country. However, this eventually spread to other Gulf nations as well as; so, the Gulf countries also started following it. This process is mainly to ensure the authenticity the passengers and check if the individual has a valid visa and other critical travel documents before boarding the flight. The other Gulf countries that follow this process are Qatar, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman.

 

This process entails the airline approving your flight ticket and marking your PNR as OK To Board after checking your visa and all the other documents. Just having a Dubai visa is not enough to travel. Only once OTB reflects against your PNR, you will be allowed to board the flight.

 

Different types of visas that require the OK to Board status.

The following types of visas to the UAE and other Gulf countries need an OTB from the airline.

·         Tourist visa

·         New residency permit

·         Visitor visa

·         Employment/express visa

·         Short work visa

 

Note: The OK to Board process is mandatory for all types of new visas including electronic visas. The process is the same for different types of visas.

 

Is OK to Board compulsory?

Yes it is compulsory for passengers traveling from the above mentioned nations to the UAE and other Gulf nations. Several travellers in the past have been deported from the UAE as they have travelled on fake visas. To put an end to this scam, the airline authorities are now checking the visas prior to the flight making sure that the passengers have authentic documents to fly to their destination.

 

Countries which require OK to Board status before travelling to the UAE.

The following countries need an OTB status:

·         India

·         Bangladesh

·         Sri Lanka

·         Africa

·         Pakistan

·         Iraq

 

Passengers who do not require Ok to Board.

·         Indian passengers holding an Emigration Check Not Required(ECNR) passport.

·         Passengers having their passport stamped with Resident Visa or having a Resident Permit.

·         Passengers who are eligible for ‘Visa on Arrival’ do not need OK To Board.

Documents required for OK To Board process

Listed below are the documents that you require:

 

·         Scan copy of first and last page of your passport

·         A copy of your approved visa

·         Confirmed flight tickets for onward and return journey

 

Note: Indian passengers should submit a copy of their pan card.

 

FAQs

How can I know about my OK to Board status?

You can call the customer support number of your airlines to check the OTB status against your PNR. Usually majority of the airlines update it electronically against your PNR once they complete all the checks.

 

What should I do if my PNR does not reflect OK o Board?

If your PNR does not reflect Ok to Board, the airline is authorised to stop you from boarding the flight. You may even have to pay cancelation charges to the relevant authorities. So, we highly recommend that you call your airline a minimum of 48 hours before your flight and confirm the OTB status.

 

How soon can I apply for OK To Board?

It is better to apply for an OK to Board at least 72 hours before your flight. This gives the airline enough time to mark your PNR with OTB. You must submit your flight tickets and a copy of your visa a minimum of 72 hours before your departure date.

 

Which airlines require OK To Board status for passengers?

The following airlines require an OTB:

·         Emirates

·         Indigo

·         Air India

·         Air India Express,

·         Spice Jet

·         Oman Air

·         Qatar Airways

·         Fly Dubai

·         Air Arabia

·         Sri Lankan Air

·         Kenya Airways

·         RwandAir

·         Gulf Arabia

 

Am I supposed to pay any charges to get an OK to Board?

Many airlines offer OTB for free while there are some who charge a nominal fee. (usually between AED 10-40 and there may be a slight change from one airline to another)

 

Can a travel agent do the OTB on my behalf as I have booked the entire trip through them?

Yes, any representative from your travel agency can complete this process for you.

 

Note: The OK To Board process can change from time to time. So, it is always better to confirm wit your airline or travel agent about the latest rules.

Conclusion

You will look forward to your Dubai holiday with a lot of excitement. Not completing a small and simple step should not be a bummer on your trip. So do all the research in advance so that you complete this process with any hassle and enjoy a memorable holiday there.