Steps for UAE expats to reenter after extended stay overseas

Many expats residing in the UAE often travel for business or personal reasons and might not stay in the country throughout the year. Extended trips exceeding six months can lead to the automatic cancellation of their residence visas.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a new entry permit to re-enter the UAE if you’ve been away for more than six months.

Applying Through ICP Smart Services:

1. Visit the ICP Website:
   • Go to the Federal Authority For Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website.
   • Click on ‘Residents Outside the UAE’ on the homepage.
   • Select ‘Residency – All Residence Types – Permits for Staying Outside the UAE Over 6 Months – New Request’, then click ‘Start Service’.
2. Fill in Your Information:
   • Provide details such as your identity number, nationality, passport information, and the reason for staying outside the UAE for over six months.
   • Click ‘Next’.
3. Attach Required Documents:
   • Upload a copy of your passport and Emirates ID.
   • Review your application and pay the application fee.

Applying Through Typing Centres:

1. Visit a Typing Centre:
   • Go to an accredited ICP typing centre.
   • Fill in and submit the application form.
   • Provide necessary documents such as passport and Emirates ID copies.
   • Pay the service fees.

For Dubai Residents – GDRFA Website:

1. Sponsor’s Application:
   • Dubai residents need their sponsor to apply on their behalf.
   • The sponsor must register on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website.
   • Log in and navigate to ‘Services’ > ‘Issuance of a Residency Visa’ > ‘Visa Issuance for Foreigners linked with Job Contract’.
2. Customer Happiness Centres:
   • The sponsor can also apply at a Customer Happiness Centre by submitting the application and required documents.
   • Pay the necessary fees.

Application Requirements:

• Submit the application from outside the UAE.
• Apply after 180 days of being outside the country.
• Provide a valid reason for the extended stay abroad.
• Pay a fine of Dh100 for every 30 days or less spent outside the UAE beyond the 180-day grace period.
• Ensure the remaining validity of the residence visa is more than 30 days at the time of application.
• Fine fees are refundable only if the application is rejected.
• Once approved, enter the UAE within 30 days from the approval date.

Application Fee:

• The new entry permit application fee is Dh200, which can rise to Dh420 if applied through customer happiness centres such as Amer. Fees may vary based on individual circumstances.

Fine Exemption:

• If you have exceeded 180 days outside the UAE but your residency status is still ‘Active’ with at least 30 days of validity, you are exempted from paying fines.

Checking Your Residency Status:

• ICP Website:
  • Visit the ICP website and click on the ‘File Validity’ tab.
  • Choose between ‘File No.’ and ‘Passport Information’, select ‘Residency’, and enter your details.
• UAEICP Mobile App:
  • Download and register on the ‘UAEICP’ mobile app.
  • Sign in with UAE Pass and select the “Sponsored” option to check if your visa is still active.

Expect to receive the result of your new entry permit request within 48 hours.