Picture used for illustrative purposes only.

The digital government of the UAE has identified 4 electronic channels for submitting requests for entry permits or visas to the UAE, the first of which is the smart channels for residency and nationality (E-channels), the second is the website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs — Dubai (GDRFA), while the third is the application of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) on Google Store or Apple Store, and the fourth channel is the “Dubai Now” application on Google Store or Apple Store.

The government added that people can apply to obtain a visa or an entry permit directly through typing offices registered with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), or through typing offices approved by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA), where the office completes the procedures and after approval, the applicant receives a message of approval and the original entry permit.

The government called on those who have an entry permit, visa, issued from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, or Fujairah, to verify its validity, and the date of issuance and expiry date through the eChannel platform of the ICP. As for those who have an entry permit or a visa issued by Dubai, persons can inquire about its validity, date of issuance and expiry date through “Amer” website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA).

When submitting an entry permit or visa application at any of the service centres, it must be ensured that the service provider provides information on tracking the application electronically, including the application number and reference number so that the status of the application can be followed up online, or through other available communication channels.

The authorities also that a resident in the country can sponsor his/her parents, as a residence visa is granted to either of them, subject to annual renewal.

The government added that resident can obtain a residence visa for members of his family to live and reside if he has a valid residence visa, according to conditions which must be met by the resident, the most important of which is that his salary should not be less than Dhs4,000 per month or Dhs3,000 with the availability of housing. The government clarified that the resident who wants to obtain a residence visa for his parents must provide a proof of their need for his care and support.