Online channels

These are the online channels for applying for entry permits:

• the eChannels portal
• the website of GDRFA - Dubai
• ICP App on Google Play and App Store
• Dubai Now on Google Play and App Store.

For more information, please contact:

• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security
• General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai.

Services centres

Offline visa application can be done through typing centres registered by ICP or typing centres of GDRFA, where visa application is typed and processed through the GDRFA of the respective emirate. Upon approval, the sponsor will receive a message about the approval and the original entry permit.

Entry permits

An entry permit is an initial document in an electronic form that a foreigner receives after being issued a visa, regardless of its type. This document facilitates the foreigner’s entry into the UAE and stay for the duration mentioned, and for the purpose allowed.

Source:

1. Federal Law by Decree No. 29 of 2021 Concerning Entry and Residence of Foreigners
2. Cabinet Resolution Issuing the Executive Regulation of Federal Decree Law Concerning the Entry and Residence of Foreigners (available in Arabic only)

Most entry permits are valid for 60 days, after which, the foreigner must either:

1. renew the permit or
2. convert it to residence (dependent visa) or standard work visa or
3. leave the country.

When an entry permit is issued for a foreignerto finalise his/her residence visa procedures, it is valid for:

• 2 months for normal visas and green residence visas (whose duration is 1 to 5 years) and
• 6 months with multiple entries for golden visas.

Related links

• Entry permits at the airports – GDRFA - Dubai
• Entry permit services – GDRFA - Dubai
• Visa services on smart channels – ICP