Keeping tabs on your UAE visa status isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Whether you’re waiting for approval, planning travel, or verifying your legal standing, a quick status check can save you from unexpected delays or penalties. Luckily, checking your UAE visa status has never been easier thanks to digital platforms and support tools.
How to Check UAE Visa Status
To check your UAE visa status, visit the official GDRFA portal if your visa was issued in Dubai, or use the ICP Smart Services portal for all other emirates. Simply enter your passport number, visa file or application number, and nationality to access your visa details. No login is needed for basic status checks, and the system will show whether your visa is active, expired, under process, or needs attention.
How to Check Your UAE Visa Status: Complete Guide for 2025
Keeping tabs on your UAE visa status isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Whether you’re waiting for approval, planning travel, or verifying your legal standing, a quick status check can save you from unexpected delays or penalties. Luckily, checking your UAE visa status has never been easier thanks to digital platforms and support tools.
How to Check UAE Visa Status
You can check your UAE visa status online using either the GDRFA portal (for Dubai-issued visas) or the ICP Smart Services portal (for visas from other emirates). All you need is your passport number, application or file number, or sometimes your Emirates ID.
Why Checking Matters
Staying updated on your visa status ensures you’re always in compliance with immigration laws. It can help prevent overstays, missed deadlines, or travel disruptions. This is particularly critical if you’re transitioning between jobs, waiting for a visa renewal, or sponsoring family members.
Official Platforms You Can Use
There are two main government-approved platforms:
- GDRFA Portal
For visas issued in Dubai, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) is the official source. Their website and mobile app offer a step-by-step visa status checker. You’ll typically need your passport number, visa file number, and sometimes your nationality. - ICP Smart Services
For all other emirates—Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain—use the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) portal. Here, the process may require your passport number, application reference, or Emirates ID.
What You’ll Need
To successfully check your visa status online, have the following details ready:
- Passport number (current and valid)
- Visa application/reference number
- Emirates ID (if issued)
- Nationality (as per passport)
I remember helping a friend who thought her UAE visit visa had expired. She was anxious about potential fines or legal trouble. We logged into the ICP portal using her passport number and found out the visa was still valid for another week—just enough time to plan her departure without stress. That moment really underlined how a two-minute check can save days of worry.
To put it in short
Always verify your visa status through official government portals—GDRFA for Dubai and ICP for other emirates. Keep your passport number and visa details handy for a smooth process. It’s a small habit with big benefits.
Track Visa Application and Validity Online
The UAE has streamlined its visa tracking process, allowing residents, tourists, and sponsors to monitor the status of applications and issued visas online. Whether you’ve applied for a new visa, a renewal, or a family sponsorship, the ability to track progress in real-time gives you transparency and peace of mind. According to the UAE government portal, visa status—whether for entry permits or residence visas—can be verified on the ICP or GDRFA websites by entering passport or application details.
Understanding the System: ICP vs GDRFA
To track a UAE visa application or check its validity, it’s crucial to know which issuing authority you’re dealing with. The two primary government bodies are the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). These authorities serve different regions within the UAE.
The ICP handles visa services for Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah. Meanwhile, the GDRFA exclusively manages visas issued in Dubai. Each platform has its own procedures, but both offer user-friendly websites and mobile apps that allow you to track applications and verify visa validity with just a few clicks.
Using the ICP Smart Services Portal
For those with visas issued outside Dubai, the ICP Smart Services portal is the designated platform. Here, you can track a visa application using your passport number and application reference. The portal is accessible in English and Arabic and doesn’t require login for basic tracking features. Once you enter your details and complete the captcha verification, the portal will show the current status of your application. This includes whether the visa is under process, approved, issued, or needs additional documentation.
In addition to application tracking, you can also verify whether a visa is still active. This is particularly helpful if you’re unsure of the expiration date or want to confirm the validity before booking travel.
Using the GDRFA Portal for Dubai
If your visa was issued in Dubai, the process shifts to the GDRFA portal. GDRFA provides a similar set of services as ICP but with a Dubai-specific interface. The platform allows users to check both residency and visit visa statuses. To use the online tracker, you need the visa file number, passport number, date of birth, and nationality. The GDRFA mobile app offers the same functionality, making it easier for residents to stay updated on-the-go.
GDRFA’s system also allows sponsors to check the visa status of dependents, such as children, spouses, or employees. This is especially useful for employers or heads of household managing multiple visa applications or renewals.
Validity Check vs. Application Tracking
It’s important to distinguish between tracking a visa application and checking the validity of an issued visa. Tracking is used when you’re waiting for the visa to be approved or printed. Validity checks confirm that an existing visa is active, hasn’t expired, and hasn’t been cancelled.
Boththe ICP and GDRFA portals provide access to this information. Some users assume that once a visa is printed, it’s valid indefinitely, but UAE visa policies often change and require regular verification, especially if you’re staying long-term or switching employers.
Ensuring Accuracy and Compliance
Always make sure the details you enter match those on your official documents. Even a small typo in the passport number or visa file can result in incorrect or no results. If you run into issues or get unclear status updates, both ICP and GDRFA have customer service centres that offer phone and email support. These teams can guide you on what documents are missing or help you understand processing delays.
By making visa tracking a routine part of your planning—whether you’re renewing your own visa, sponsoring family, or planning to travel—you stay compliant with local laws and reduce the risk of administrative hassles. The online tools are reliable, secure, and designed to simplify your immigration experience in the UAE.
Step-by-Step: Checking Visa Status in Dubai via GDRFA Portal
If your UAE visa was issued in Dubai, your primary resource for tracking and checking its validity is the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs). This authority manages all visa-related procedures for Dubai residents, workers, and visitors. The portal is available in both English and Arabic, and offers a smooth, mobile-friendly experience.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the required details. These ensure accurate retrieval of your visa status:
- Passport number (as shown on your passport)
- Visa file number (issued during your visa application)
- Date of birth
- Nationality (as per passport)
Having this information ready will save time and minimise errors during the verification process.
Using the GDRFA Website
To check your visa status online:
- Visit the official GDRFA Dubai website
- Navigate to the “Visa Status” or “File Validity” section
- Select “Residence” or “Visit Visa” depending on your visa type
- Enter your file number, passport number, date of birth, and nationality
- Submit the form to view your current visa status
Once submitted, the page will display real-time information about your visa, including whether it’s still active, expired, or under renewal.
Using the GDRFA Mobile App
For added convenience, GDRFA also provides a mobile app available on both Android and iOS. The app supports visa tracking and includes features like notifications and reminders.
Steps to use the app:
- Download “GDRFA Dubai” from your app store
- Open the app and choose “Visa Status Inquiry”
- Enter your required details
- Submit and view your results instantly
The mobile app is particularly useful if you travel frequently or sponsor dependents, allowing you to track multiple visa statuses in one place.
Contacting GDRFA Support
If your inquiry returns no result, or if the information appears outdated:
- Call the Amer service at 800 5111 (within UAE) or +971-4-313-9999 (outside UAE)
- Have your passport and visa file number ready
- Ask for assistance or clarification on your visa status
The GDRFA system is one of the most efficient in the region, but errors or document mismatches can occasionally cause confusion. Reaching out directly can resolve issues quickly.
Step-by-Step: Checking Visa Status in Other Emirates via ICP Portal
For visas issued outside Dubai—such as those from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, or Umm Al Quwain—the responsible authority is the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). The ICP offers a centralised digital portal that allows you to track visa applications and check the validity of issued visas, without the need to visit any government office in person.
Accessing the ICP Smart Services Platform
Start by visiting the official ICP Smart Services portal, which is available in English and Arabic. Unlike the Dubai-specific GDRFA system, this portal is designed to serve all other emirates, so make sure you’re using the right platform for your visa type. The ICP system is known for its ease of use and doesn’t typically require account registration for basic tracking and verification.
Once on the site, navigate to the “Application Tracking” or “File Validity” section, depending on your need. Application tracking is for pending or newly submitted visa applications, while file validity lets you check the current status of an already issued visa.
Information You Need to Enter
To check your status effectively, you’ll need accurate details. These typically include your passport number, application number, or Emirates ID number if one has been issued. You may also be asked to enter your nationality and the visa type. Once you enter this data and pass the CAPTCHA security check, the system will return the status of your application or the validity of your visa.
If the visa has been approved, you’ll see the issue date, expiration date, and current status. If the application is still in process, the system will show its latest update, such as “Under Review,” “Pending Documents,” or “Approved.”
Resolving Errors and Delays
In case your status doesn’t appear or you receive an error, it’s usually due to incorrect information input. Recheck the details you entered, especially your passport number and application reference. If problems persist, you can reach out to the ICP call centre for support. Their team can assist with clarification, especially for delays or document requests you may have missed.
The ICP portal remains one of the most efficient tools for staying on top of your visa timeline. By regularly checking the site during and after your application, you ensure compliance with UAE immigration rules and avoid last-minute surprises.
Check UAE Visa Status by Passport Number
One of the most convenient ways to verify your UAE visa status is by using your passport number. This method is especially useful if you don’t have your visa file or reference number on hand, or if you’re checking the status on behalf of someone else with their consent. Whether your visa was issued in Dubai or another emirate, both GDRFA and ICP portals support passport-based queries, provided the correct information is entered.
When and Why to Use This Method
Checking your visa status using a passport number is ideal in situations where you need quick verification, such as before boarding a flight, renewing your Emirates ID, or confirming your legal stay in the UAE. It’s also the preferred option for tourists who may not have access to full visa documentation. Since your passport number is a unique identifier tied to your visa record, it allows the system to pull your current visa status directly from the immigration database.
Using the ICP Portal with Passport Number
For visas issued in Abu Dhabi and the other emirates, the ICP Smart Services portal allows users to enter their passport number along with their nationality to retrieve visa validity. No login is required for this process. Once the data is entered, the system will display details such as the type of visa, its issue date, expiration date, and current status. This is particularly helpful for residents and visitors who don’t recall their visa reference number or are simply trying to confirm whether their visa is still valid.
Using the GDRFA Portal with Passport Number
If your visa was issued in Dubai, you can also check your status through the GDRFA portal by entering your passport number, date of birth, and nationality. While the system may request a visa file number for certain detailed queries, basic status checks can often be performed with just the passport details. This makes it a practical solution for employers, family members, or travel agents who may need to check visa status for others with their permission.
Verifying the Results
After submitting your passport number and related details, the result will show your current visa status—whether it’s active, expired, cancelled, or under process. If no result appears, double-check that your passport number and nationality were entered correctly. This method is straightforward and reliable, and it plays a key role in ensuring that you remain legally compliant during your time in the UAE.
Tracking with Emirates ID: What You Can and Can’t Do
Once you’ve received your Emirates ID, it becomes a powerful document for managing multiple aspects of life in the UAE, including visa-related information. While it’s not always the primary method for checking visa status, the Emirates ID can be used in specific situations to confirm your residency validity, application updates, or even to streamline inquiries at immigration offices. However, many people mistakenly believe that having an Emirates ID alone is enough to track everything related to their visa. Understanding its actual role is key to avoiding confusion.
When Emirates ID Helps
The Emirates ID is often used in tandem with other personal identifiers such as your passport or visa file number. Once your visa has been fully approved and your residency has been stamped, your Emirates ID is linked to your visa record in the government systems. This allows certain portals, such as the ICP Smart Services platform, to accept Emirates ID input to confirm if your residency is still active. Additionally, when visiting government service centers or calling helplines like Amer, providing your Emirates ID number can help agents quickly access your immigration record.
In particular, residents can use their Emirates ID to validate their residency status, renewal eligibility, and in some cases, their dependents’ visa records, as long as those records are linked under the same sponsor profile. This is most applicable to long-term residents, families, or individuals under company sponsorships.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its utility, the Emirates ID cannot be used to initiate a visa status check unless the visa has already been approved and processed. For pending applications, visit visas, or newly issued entry permits, your Emirates ID will not be recognised by online systems because those visas are not yet linked to a residency profile. In such cases, the ICP or GDRFA platforms will require either the passport number or the visa application/file number for accurate tracking.
Understanding the Link Between Visa and Emirates ID
Here’s a simple breakdown of how Emirates ID correlates with visa types:
| Visa Type | Emirates ID Usage |
| Visit Visa | Not linked; Emirates ID not applicable |
| Residency Visa (new) | Only usable after visa stamping |
| Renewed Residency Visa | Fully integrated with Emirates ID |
| Family/Dependent Visa | Linked under the sponsor’s Emirates ID |
This table shows that while the Emirates ID is a critical document, it complements rather than replaces traditional visa tracking methods. It offers great convenience, but only once your visa is active and recorded in the national immigration database.
Offline Methods: Call Centres and Amer Service Centres
While online systems are the most efficient way to check your UAE visa status, there are times when offline methods become necessary. System errors, delayed updates, or the need for more personalised support may require speaking directly with immigration representatives. Fortunately, the UAE has a reliable network of support channels, including phone-based call centres and in-person Amer service centres, to assist you.
When to Use Offline Support
Offline channels are ideal when you’re unable to access your visa status online due to technical issues or missing information. They’re also useful when your application status is unclear or when additional documentation is required but hasn’t been specified on the portals. For example, if you entered your passport number and received a message like “no result found” or “information not available,” it may indicate a need for further clarification from the relevant immigration department.
In such cases, reaching out to support can help you understand the issue and take corrective action. It’s also a preferred method for residents or visitors who are not comfortable navigating government websites or mobile apps, especially those who may not speak Arabic or English fluently.
Contacting the Right Department
If your visa was issued in Dubai, the Amer service is your go-to resource. Amer is a government-backed help centre that handles visa-related inquiries under the GDRFA umbrella. You can call Amer from within the UAE at 800 5111 or from abroad at +971-4-313-9999. The team provides support in multiple languages and can guide you through the steps needed to access or resolve your visa status.
For all other emirates, contact the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) at 600 522 222. This helpline can assist with both residence and visit visa queries, including tracking applications, reporting delays, or verifying visa validity when the online portal doesn’t provide enough detail.
Visiting Amer Centres
In addition to phone support, Dubai residents can also visit an Amer service centre in person. These centres are located throughout the city and offer walk-in consultations for visa renewals, application tracking, documentation submissions, and more. Having your passport and any application receipts on hand will speed up the process.
These offline options serve as an important backup system, especially for those with complex cases or limited access to digital tools. They ensure that no matter your situation, there’s always a way to verify and manage your visa status in the UAE.
How Long Does It Take: Visa Processing Times & Delays
Understanding the typical visa processing time in the UAE helps set realistic expectations and avoid unnecessary anxiety. Whether you’re applying for a residence visa, renewing an existing one, or waiting for a visit visa approval, knowing the standard timelines allows you to plan travel, accommodation, and employment activities without disruption. While most applications are processed smoothly, some may face delays depending on various factors.
Standard Processing Timelines
In general, UAE visa applications are processed within two to seven working days. This timeframe covers most types of visas, including tourist, employment, residence, and family sponsorship visas. Once submitted, your application passes through multiple stages such as verification, document checks, approvals, and in some cases, medical fitness tests or Emirates ID biometrics. Each of these steps is streamlined through digital systems, but may still require time depending on your case.
For visit visas, especially those applied through travel agencies or third-party services, processing can be even faster, often completed within 24 to 72 hours. On the other hand, residence visa approvals and renewals typically take longer due to additional formalities like labour contract registration or housing documents for dependents.
Reasons for Delays
Despite efficient systems, visa applications may occasionally face delays. One common reason is incomplete or incorrect documentation. Even a small error—like a typo in your passport number or an outdated photo—can halt the process until it’s corrected. Other causes include pending security clearances, inconsistencies in employment records, or delays in medical testing.
In some cases, technical issues on the portals or a sudden influx of applications during peak seasons can also contribute to slower processing times. For example, during holiday periods or major events, authorities may receive a higher-than-usual volume of visa requests, slightly extending the turnaround time.
What to Do if Delayed
If your application exceeds the expected timeline and remains unchanged in the portal, it’s important to take proactive steps. First, verify all your submitted documents and confirm that you received an acknowledgement of submission. If everything seems in order but the status hasn’t updated, contact the ICP or Amer helpline based on your visa’s issuing emirate.
They can provide case-specific feedback, including whether additional documents are required or if there’s a backlog in the system. Being patient yet attentive is key—most delays are resolved within a few days once any missing information is addressed. Regularly tracking your status online and staying responsive to any email or SMS alerts can also help move your application forward.
Try This Tool: Atlys UAE Visa Status Checker
For those seeking a simplified alternative to government portals, the Atlys UAE Visa Status Checker offers a quick and user-friendly way to track your visa information. Designed to help both residents and visitors, the tool acts as a bridge between users and official immigration data, providing real-time updates with minimal input. While it doesn’t replace official government services, it’s a handy option for individuals who want a more intuitive experience, especially those unfamiliar with government websites.
How the Atlys Tool Works
The Atlys tool operates by collecting basic information, such as your passport number and nationality, to fetch your visa status. It is particularly useful for users who want a quick overview without navigating multiple menus or forms. The tool is optimised for mobile use and works across devices, making it convenient whether you’re at home, at the airport, or on the move. It doesn’t require an account, and you don’t need to download a separate app if you’re accessing it through a browser.
Once the required fields are completed, the tool processes your request and returns the most up-to-date visa status pulled from the official databases. The information typically includes visa type, current status (active, expired, under process), and sometimes the expiry date. This allows users to plan their next steps—such as travel, renewals, or contacting immigration—based on accurate insights.
Who Can Benefit from It
Atlys is particularly useful for tourists, new residents, or those sponsoring family members. Many users find government websites overwhelming or confusing due to language options or design complexity. The Atlys tool is designed to be clear, simple, and focused solely on visa tracking. It also serves as a good backup method in case official portals are temporarily down or slow to load.
While employers and frequent travellers may still prefer using ICP or GDRFA portals directly, Atlys fills an important gap by offering a stripped-down, fast-access interface. It’s especially helpful for those unfamiliar with UAE immigration systems but still in need of timely visa information.
Limitations to Consider
It’s important to understand that the Atlys tool is not an official government service. While it uses public and accessible APIs or data to generate visa status results, any sensitive updates or corrections still need to be handled through ICP or GDRFA. For legal or urgent matters, contacting the relevant authorities directly remains essential. However, for day-to-day checks and convenience, Atlys serves as a reliable and efficient option.
Estimated Processing Time & Common Issues
Understanding the typical processing time for UAE visa applications—and recognising common issues that may arise—can help you better manage your expectations and reduce unnecessary stress. While most visa processes in the UAE are efficient and digital, delays do happen. Knowing what’s considered normal and what’s cause for concern ensures you remain proactive and compliant throughout your visa journey.
Average Processing Time for Different Visa Types
The UAE immigration system typically processes visit visas within 24 to 72 hours, especially when submitted through approved travel agencies or online platforms. Residence visas, on the other hand, often take two to seven working days, depending on the emirate and specific case details. This period includes medical testing, Emirates ID registration, and visa stamping.
Renewals and dependent visa applications follow a similar timeline but may be delayed if documents like tenancy contracts or salary certificates require additional review. Peak seasons, like public holidays or the start of school terms, can also extend standard processing periods due to higher application volumes.
Delays Due to Documentation
One of the most common reasons for delayed visa processing is incomplete or incorrect documentation. Misspelt names, mismatched passport numbers, or low-quality photo uploads are frequently flagged, requiring resubmission. In many cases, the system won’t move to the next stage until every field and document has been verified by a case officer.
Another overlooked factor is passport validity. UAE visa applications often require that the passport be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay. Submitting an application with a nearly expired passport can lead to automatic rejection or long processing delays.
Technical and System Errors
Occasionally, users encounter delays not due to their documents but because of technical issues on the ICP or GDRFA platforms. Timeout errors, frozen pages, or discrepancies in the application status can create confusion. These are usually resolved in a few days, but if a problem persists beyond the expected timeline, it’s best to contact the relevant authority by phone or visit a service centre.
If your visa status hasn’t updated after seven working days, and you haven’t received an email or SMS notification, that’s a sign to reach out. Providing your application number, passport details, and submission date will help the support team assist you faster. Staying vigilant and double-checking every field before submission can go a long way in avoiding delays.
Overview: Why Checking Your UAE Visa Status Matters
Monitoring your UAE visa status is not just a bureaucratic necessity—it’s a critical step in ensuring you remain compliant with the country’s immigration laws. Whether you’re a visitor planning your exit, a resident awaiting renewal, or a sponsor tracking a dependent’s application, checking your visa status helps prevent unexpected legal or financial consequences.
Legal Compliance and Peace of Mind
Keeping your visa status updated ensures that you’re always on the right side of the law. Overstaying a visa—even by a single day—can lead to fines, travel restrictions, or future entry bans. Checking your visa status regularly offers peace of mind, especially if you’re uncertain about your expiry date or are juggling multiple dependents under your sponsorship.
- Overstaying a UAE visa can result in fines ranging from AED 50 to AED 100 per day.
- Entry bans can be issued for repeated overstays or violations.
- Visa cancellation delays can impact future applications or employment transfers.
Helps You Plan Better
Whether you’re applying for a new job, booking a flight, or enrolling your children in school, an accurate understanding of your visa status allows you to make informed decisions. Waiting until the last minute to verify your status can disrupt travel plans or delay important processes.
- Confirming an active visa allows smooth international travel.
- Early renewals help avoid last-minute rushes or rejections.
- Dependents’ visa status affects school admissions and healthcare access.
Simplifies Government Interactions
Many government services in the UAE—like Emirates ID renewals, health insurance updates, and even tenancy contracts—require a valid visa. Knowing your visa status helps you prepare documents in advance and speeds up administrative processes.
- Emirates ID cannot be renewed without a valid residency visa.
- Certain services require proof of a valid visa at the time of request.
- Visa status also impacts labour card renewals and salary transfers.
Avoids Unnecessary Expenses
By proactively checking your visa status, you can avoid penalties, reapplication fees, or emergency travel arrangements. It’s a simple task that could save you thousands of dirhams in the long run.
- Avoid fines by monitoring expiry and grace periods.
- Reduce the need for last-minute courier or typing service charges.
- Stay eligible for discounts or promotions tied to a valid visa status.
Making visa checks a routine habit—especially using tools like the ICP or GDRFA portals—ensures you stay organised, legal, and worry-free during your time in the UAE.
Final Thoughts
Staying informed about your UAE visa status is not just a legal formality—it’s a practical necessity. Whether you’re a visitor, a new resident, or someone managing multiple visa applications for your family or staff, keeping track of visa details ensures you’re always in compliance with immigration rules and ready to take timely action.
The UAE has made this process remarkably accessible through digital platforms like the ICP Smart Services and GDRFA Dubai portals. These tools let you check status updates, track applications, and confirm visa validity in just a few minutes. For those who prefer a more streamlined interface, third-party solutions like Atlys can offer quick, on-the-go insights, especially for basic verification.
Regardless of which tool you use, the key is consistency. Make it a habit to verify your visa status periodically—before travel, renewals, or any major life change. It’s a simple yet powerful step to avoid penalties, delays, or missed opportunities.
If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to use offline resources like Amer centres or the ICP helpline. Expert support is always within reach to guide you through even the most complex cases. In a country where efficiency and regulation go hand in hand, staying ahead of your visa obligations is the smartest move you can make.
Ready to Check Your UAE Visa Status Now?
For a quick and secure way to verify your visa status—whether you’re in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or anywhere across the UAE—visit The Open World. It’s your one-stop platform for fast updates, expert guidance, and hassle-free access to official resources.
FAQs: UAE Visa Status Check
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Can I check my UAE visa status using only my passport number?
Yes, both the ICP Smart Services portal (for all emirates except Dubai) and the GDRFA Dubai portal allow you to check visa status using your passport number and nationality. This is one of the most straightforward methods for quick verification.
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What’s the difference between ICP and GDRFA?
The ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) handles visa matters for all emirates except Dubai. GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) exclusively manages Dubai-issued visas. Make sure you use the correct portal based on your visa’s issuing emirate.
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How long does it take for a UAE visa to be processed?
Typical processing time ranges from 24 hours to 7 working days, depending on visa type, emirate, and completeness of submitted documents. Visit visas are usually processed faster, while residence visas may take longer due to medical tests and Emirates ID registration.
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Can I check the status of a visa application before it’s approved?
Yes. Both ICP and GDRFA portals allow you to track ongoing applications by entering the application number or file number along with personal details like passport number and nationality.
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Is it possible to track someone else’s visa status?
You can check someone else’s visa status if you have their passport number and other required details, but always ensure you have the person’s consent to access their private information.
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What should I do if my visa status is not showing online?
Double-check your input for errors in passport number or nationality. If the issue persists, contact the ICP helpline at 600 522 222 or the Amer service at 800 5111 (for Dubai) for assistance.
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Can I use my Emirates ID to check visa status?
Yes, but only if your visa has already been approved and is linked to your Emirates ID. It won’t work for newly submitted or visit visa applications.
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Is Atlys an official government tool?
No, Atlys is not affiliated with UAE immigration authorities. It provides a simplified visa status check by retrieving publicly available information, but cannot replace the official ICP or GDRFA portals for critical updates or legal procedures.
