Your Complete Guide to Checking and Cancelling UAE Visa Status Online

Thursday, 8 August 2024

If you need to check or cancel your UAE visa status, this guide is for you. In the UAE, you can easily check your visa status online through various official channels. Read on for detailed step-by-step instructions on how to successfully check the status of your visa application or submit a cancellation request.

Table of Contents

• Status/Validity Check
• How to Check the Status of Your Visa Application Online in Dubai
• How to Check Your Residency Visa Status Offline
• How to Check the Validity of Your UAE Visa Online
• How to Prevent Automatic Cancellation of Your UAE Visa
• Visa Cancellation in the UAE: Essential Information
• Frequently asked questions

Status/Validity Check

1. Can You Check Your UAE Visa Application Online?

Yes, you can check the status of your UAE residence visa online. For residents outside Dubai, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) provides this service. If you’re in Dubai, you can use the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) portal to check your visa status.

2. How Can You Check the Status of Your UAE Visa Application Online?

To check your UAE visa status online through the ICP portal, follow these steps:

1. Visit the ICP Official Website: Go to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website.
2. Enter Your Details: You will need your application number and reference number.
3. Submit: Follow the on-screen instructions to view the current status of your visa application.

This process is straightforward and allows you to quickly get the latest updates on your visa status.

To check your UAE visa status using the ICP website, follow these steps:

1. Visit the ICP Official Website: Open your browser and navigate to the ICP’s official website.
2. Select Public Services: On the homepage, click on the “Public Services” option.
3. Click on Application Tracking: Look for the “Application Tracking” button on the right side of the page and click on it.
4. Enter Your Application Number: Input your application number into the provided field. Your visa status will then be displayed.

How to Check the Status of Your Visa Application Online in Dubai

If you’re in Dubai and need to check the status of your residency visa application, you can easily do so through the following methods:

1. GDRFA Website:

1. Visit the GDRFA website.
2. Click on “Residence Validity” .
3. Enter the required details.
4. Complete the captcha code and click “Submit” .

2. GDRFA App:

1. Download the GDRFA app from your app store.
2. Open the app and tap on the “Services” tab.
3. Select “File Status Inquiry” .
4. Choose “Entry Permit Inquiry” if you have a labour contract but have not yet received your visa.
5. Select “Residency Inquiry” if your permit has been approved.
6. Enter the required information and verify it.
7. Press “Inquire”.

If your details are correct, you will see a green check mark along with your visa information.

How to Check Your Residency Visa Status Offline

You can check the status of your UAE residency visa offline without leaving your home by making a simple phone call.

Dubai:

Contact Amer Service via the toll-free number:

• 800 5111 (within UAE)
• +971 (0)4 313 9999 (outside UAE)

Alternatively, use the Dubai Now app to access GDRFA services and quickly obtain the information you need.

Other Emirates:

For other emirates, you can call ICP’s toll-free number:

• 600 522222

How to Check the Validity of Your UAE Visa Online

You can easily check the validity of your UAE visa online using the ICP official portal. To do this, you’ll need your passport number and expiry date. Follow these steps:

1. Visit the ICP Website: Go to the official ICP portal.
2. Click on the “Passport Information” Tab: Locate this section on the website.
3. Select “Visa” or “Residency”: Choose the relevant option for your inquiry.
4. Enter Your Details: Input your passport number, passport expiry date, and select your nationality.
5. Submit the Information: Click to submit and view your visa details.

The system will display your visa’s expiry date and other relevant details. Checking your visa status online is crucial, especially if you have left the country without officially cancelling your visa. This feature allows you to verify whether your visa has been automatically cancelled or remains active.

How to Prevent Automatic Cancellation of Your UAE Visa

To avoid automatic cancellation of your UAE visa, ensure you do not remain outside the country for more than 6 consecutive months.

If you frequently travel abroad, make sure to return to the UAE at least once every 6 months. This regular visit will help you maintain your visa status.

Additionally, after verifying your visa status, consider setting up a bank account in the UAE. For comprehensive details on opening a bank account and obtaining a visa card in the UAE, visit Property Finder.

Visa Cancellation in the UAE: Essential Information

1. What Should You Do Before Cancelling Your Visa?

Before initiating the visa cancellation process in the UAE, ensure you:

• Settle all outstanding debts and bills.
• Cancel any tenancy agreements and sell any assets, if applicable.

For Employees:

• Pay all pending salary, gratuity, and leave entitlements.
• Provide a return flight ticket before cancelling your work permit with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).

2. Who Is Responsible for Visa Cancellation?

The sponsor is responsible for cancelling residency visas, except for investor visas, which can be cancelled directly by the visa holder.

3. Required Documents for Visa Cancellation

When cancelling your visa, you’ll need to submit:

• Copy of your entry permit.
• Copy of your sponsor’s passport.
• Your passport and Emirates ID.
• A clearance statement of your financial liabilities.
• For business owners: proof of trade license cancellation.
• In case of death: death certificate (UAE or authorized by official entities).

4. Cost of UAE Visa Cancellation

The fee for cancelling a UAE visa ranges from AED 100 to AED 200, approx., depending on the visa type and submission platform.

5. How to Cancel Your UAE Visa

Online:

• Channels: ICP Website/App or GDRFA Portal/App.
• Process:
• Register or log in.
• Search for the visa cancellation service.
• Submit required documents and pay the fee.
• Visit GDRFA or a typing center to return your Emirates ID and get your passport stamped.

Offline:

• Channels: Typing Centers or Amer Centers.
• Process:
• Visit a Typing/Amer center.
• Select the service at the reception.
• Submit documents and pay the fee.
• Return your Emirates ID and get your passport stamped.

6. How Long Does Visa Cancellation Take?

Visa cancellation approval typically takes up to 48 hours. You will receive notification via email.

7. Should Expats Cancel Their Visas Before Leaving?

Yes, expats must cancel their visas before leaving the UAE to avoid future entry bans.

8. Grace Period After Visa Cancellation

The grace period varies by visa type:

• 180 days: Golden/Green Visa holders, students, skilled jobs (1st and 2nd levels), widows or divorcees.
• 90 days: Skilled jobs (3rd and 2nd levels), unit owners.
• 60 days: Normal residents.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I check my UAE visa status online? You can check your UAE visa status online through the following methods:

• GDRFA Portal: Access the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website or mobile app, log in, and search for your visa status.
• ICP Portal: Use the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) website or app, register or log in, and check your visa status.

What documents are needed to check my UAE visa status online? To check your UAE visa status online, you typically need:

• Your passport number
• Your visa number (if available)
• Emirates ID number

How do I cancel my UAE visa online? To cancel your UAE visa online:

1. Visit the GDRFA or ICP website or app.
2. Log in to your account or register if you don’t have one.
3. Select the visa cancellation service.
4. Upload the required documents and pay the fee.
5. Submit your cancellation request and visit a GDRFA office or typing center to return your Emirates ID and get your passport stamped.

What is the cost of cancelling a UAE visa online?

The cost for cancelling a UAE visa online typically ranges from AED 100 to AED 200, depending on the visa type and the submission platform.

How long does it take to process a UAE visa cancellation request?

The processing time for a UAE visa cancellation request is usually up to 48 hours. You will receive an email notification once your request is approved.