Expats must know the Dubai visa re-entry permit requirements to reactivate their residency visas and re-enter the country. The UAE allows all visa holders, except for investor or partner visa holders, to stay outside the country for 180 days. The GDRFA requires the foreign residents to return within 30 days of application approval. Hence, the government issues re-entry permits after 6 months for them to return to the country.
The ICP offers a service for foreign nationals with expired residence visas. The service is available on the ICP website for foreign nationals to re-activate their residency visas and re-enter the country.
What Happens If You Exceed 180 Days Outside the UAE?
If visa holders exceed the 180-day limit, they must apply for a UAE re-entry permit. Once they submit the required fee and documents, the permit takes 3-5 working days to process.
Attempting to enter the UAE without an entry permit may result in immigration refusing entry at the airport. In some cases, the authorities may also cancel the visa if re-entry is attempted without the permit.
Dubai Visa Re-Entry Permit Requirements After 6 Months
Applicants need to provide the necessary information, passports, sponsors and details of the UAE residency. Approval takes 5 days, and once approved by the ICP, applicants can re-enter the UAE.
Due to the UAE government’s implementation of the new entry permit system, visa and residency fees have changed. The UAE no longer extends visit visas; hence, holders must return with a new visa.
The fine for overstaying visas is AED 50 per day. However, the government is doubling the penalty for resident visa holders from AED 25 to 50.
How to Avoid UAE Visa Issues? – Dubai Visa Re-Entry Permit Requirements
To avoid refused entry, delays or visa cancellation, visa holders must keep track of their time spent outside the UAE and apply for re-entry permits in advance if necessary.
Registration for the UAE Re-entry Permit
There are three ways for residents who have been away for more than 6 months to apply for a re-entry permit.
Registering at Customer Happiness Centres or Typing Centres
The in-person process involves obtaining the Arabic-language immigration application form from Typing Centres or Customer Happiness Centres. After paying the required fees and other dues, the residents can get the UAE re-entry permit.
Applying Through the ICP Smart Services
Apply through the online ICP website or the UAEICP mobile app.
- Go to the official ICP website.
- Select the “Residents Outside the UAE” option.
- Fill out the necessary fields such as identity number, passport number, nationality, and the reason for longer stay abroad.
- Upload the documents, review the application form and pay the dues.
- Another option is to visit the nearby typing centre.
Registering Through the GDRFA Website – Dubai Visa Re-Entry Permit Requirements
UAE residents staying abroad for less than 6 months can use the GDRFA website.
- Log in to the GDRFA website and select the “services” option.
- Select the “Visa Issuance for Foreigners Linked with Job Contract” option.
- Foreign workers can also ask their sponsors in the UAE for a re-entry permit.
- Complete the application process, submit the necessary documents and pay the fee.
- Upon getting approval from the authorities, the residents can enter the UAE.
Necessary Documents for Dubai Visa Re-Entry Permit
The application for the UAE re-entry permit needs the following documents:
- Copy of applicant’s passport
- Valid UAE visa
- Salary certificate or trade license
- An active IBAN
- Proof of the reason for overstaying abroad
- Emirates ID of the sponsor
Final Words
UAE visa holders must understand Dubai Visa Re-Entry Permit Requirements if they want to stay outside the UAE for 6 months. It allows foreign nationals to maintain their residency without any interruptions. Expats need to carefully submit their documents, pay applicable fees, and get official approval to ensure a smooth return to the UAE.
The permit allows travel abroad to meet family, fulfil work commitments, pursue education, or receive medical treatment. It eliminates the inconvenience of starting the residency process from the start. Hence, it gives families and individuals peace of mind to travel and plan a longer stay abroad. Al Riyady can help you get a re-entry permit without hassle so you can stay abroad without any worries.
