The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD) has consistently aimed to enhance the quality of life in Dubai, prioritizing security and safety.
Since its inception, GDRFAD has provided proactive, smart, and flexible services to both visitors and residents, earning recognition for excellence at local, regional, and international levels.
It is a key government institution specializing in entry permit status and residency permit. These services cater to all segments of society, allowing for the rapid completion of entry and residence procedures.
GDRFAD also manages entry and departure services via Dubai’s air, sea, and land ports.
These services are among the most advanced globally, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to enable travellers to complete procedures through smart gates without human intervention. This innovation ensures a seamless and efficient travel experience.
Checking Visa Status
Understanding how to check the status of your visa application and its validity is essential for anyone planning to reside or visit Dubai and the other emirates in the UAE.
For the emirates of Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, you can check your visa application status and its validity on the website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
However, if you applied for a visa to Dubai, you’ll need to use the website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA).
Tracking Visa Application Status
To track your visa application, you’ll need your application number and reference number.
When you submit your visa application through any visa service provider, ensure you obtain these numbers to track your application independently.
For Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah
- Visit the ICP website: Navigate to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security website.
- Enter your details: Input your application number and reference number in the appropriate fields.
- Submit the information: Click on the appropriate button to track your application.
For Dubai
- Visit the GDRFA website: Navigate to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai website.
- Select the tracking option: Choose the option to track your visa application.
- Enter your details: Provide your application number and reference number.
- Submit the information: Click to submit and view the status of your application.
Additionally, if you applied through Amer centres in Dubai, you can also track your application through the GDRFA website or by using the DubaiNow app.
Checking Visa Validity (Issuance and Expiry Dates)
Once your visa has been issued, it’s crucial to keep track of its validity, including the issuance and expiry dates.
The process varies slightly depending on whether your visa is for Dubai or one of the other emirates.
For Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah
- Visit the ICP website: Go to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security website.
- Input your details: Enter your passport number and other required information.
- View your visa details: The website will display your visa’s issuance and expiry dates.
For Dubai
- Visit the GDRFA website: Navigate to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai website.
- Choose the Residence Validity option: This option is usually found in a dropdown menu.
- Enter your visa details: Input your residence visa file number, full name, gender, and date of birth as they appear on your passport.
- Submit the form: Click on the submit button to view your visa details, including issuance and expiry dates.
Methods for Enquiries
For any visa enquiry regarding visa issuance, types, and validity, there are additional methods to get in touch with the relevant authorities.
For Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah
- ICP Toll-Free Number: Call 600522222 for assistance.
- ICP Feedback Platform: Use the feedback platform on the ICP website for any inquiries.
For Dubai
- Amer Service (within UAE): Call the toll-free number 800 5111 for assistance.
- Amer Service (outside UAE): Call the toll-free number +9714-313-9999 for enquiries.
Detailed Steps to Check Your Dubai Visa Status Online
For residents and visitors in Dubai, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) offers a straightforward online method to check your visa status.
Steps to Check Your Visa Status:
- Visit the GDRFA Website: Open the official GDRFA website in your browser.
- Select Residence Validity: From the dropdown options, choose “Residence Validity.”
- Fill in the Details:
- Residence Visa File Number: Locate this number on your visa page in your passport.
- Full Name: Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport.
- Gender: Select the appropriate option.
- Date of Birth: Enter your date of birth in the format dd-mm-yyyy.
- Complete Captcha: Check the captcha box to verify you’re not a robot.
- Submit the Form: Click on the submit button.
The results will display a green tick with all the relevant information about your visa. This includes your full name, visa expiry date, visa number, and type. The process is user-friendly and doesn’t require logging in or signing up.
Tracking UAE Visa Status with Receipt Number or Reference Number
If you have the receipt number or reference number from your visa application, you can use it to track your UAE visa status.
Steps to Track Visa Application:
- Visit the Visa Service Page: Navigate to the visa service page relevant to your application (GDRFA for Dubai, ICP for other emirates).
- Click on Track Your Application: This option is usually prominently displayed on the page.
- Enter Your Request Number: Input the request number provided during your visa application process.
- Search for Your Application: Click on the search tab to view the status of your visa application.
Contact Information for Visa Enquiries
For any specific questions or issues regarding your visa, contacting the relevant authorities directly can provide the most accurate and personalized assistance.
Contact Details
- Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP): For all inquiries related to visas for Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA): For all Dubai visa-related inquiries.
To Sum Up
Checking your GDRFA visa status by passport number is a straightforward process once you know the steps involved.
Always keep your application number, reference number, and personal details handy to streamline the process.
For any additional help, the customer service hotlines and feedback platforms are excellent resources. Staying informed and proactive about your visa status will help ensure a smooth experience during your stay in the UAE.
