A person looking to apply for entry permits for visas can do so via the website of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship -ICA (the eChannel for residency and citizenship). One can also apply through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs(GDRFA) which works under the ministry. Although ICA offers only online channels, GDRFA offers only online channels.GDRFA offers both online and offline channels.
Online Channels
To apply online, you are first required to register and create an account, get the UAE pass, submit the application, pay the required fees and receive the entry permit via email.
It is important to be careful while providing valid and accurate information and also make sure that the correct ID number and expiry date are imputed when applying for renewal or replacement. The data inputted into the digital application form must be correct before paying the fees to avoid delays in the processing of the application.
The online channels for applying for entry permits are:
- The eChannels portal which can be accessed through this
- The website of the GDRFA which can be accessed through this
- Dubai mobile apps. These include:
- Dubai Now available on Google Play andApp Store
- GDRFA Dubai available on Google Play and App Store
- ICA eChannels available on Google Play andApp Store
The eChannels Portal
Individuals, businesses, and companies registered in the United Arab Emirates can apply for a new entry permit or renew an expired one through theeChannelsportal.
To apply, individuals, businesses and companies must first register themselves.
It is important to note that eVisas can be used at entry ports in the UAE. It is not necessary to put the original visa in the entry port before the arrival of the person being sponsored.
The Website of the GDRFA
The website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) ] Dubai is another avenue where individuals and companies can apply online for a visa along with having a Virtual License in Dubai, UAE.. Visitors can also apply for extensions of visas on arrival from the website.
The GDRFA of Dubai offers another websiteAmer.ae, which Dubai citizens and residents can apply for an UAE family residence visa as well. .
Mobile apps
Another avenue to apply for UAE entry permits and residence visas is through mobile apps. These include:
- Dubai Now available on Google PlayandApp Store
- GDRFA Dubai available on Google Playand App Store
- ICA eChannels available on Google Play andApp Store
To learn more, visit the UAEFederal Authority for Identity and Citizenship and Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs
Offline channels
Typing centers
Applying for a Dubai visa offline can be done in a licensed typing center. In the typing center, the visa application is typed and processed through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs(GDRFA) of the respective emirate. When the typing application is approved, the sponsor will receive a message about the approval and the original entry permit.
Amer centers
The Dubai government stipulates that all entry permit and visa transactions must be carried out through its Amer centers. You can locate Amer centers in Dubai.
