Dubai visit visa refund: When and how to get back your security deposit

Dubai: If you’ve sponsored a family member on a visit visa to Dubai, you may have noticed a refundable security deposit added to the application cost. Once your relative leaves the country or changes their visa status, you’re entitled to claim that deposit back but only if you apply within a specific time frame.

Here’s how to check your eligibility, the required documents, and the exact steps to get your refund.

When can you apply for the refund?

You can request a refund for the visit visa security deposit only after the family member has either exited the UAE or changed their visa status.

The refund claim must be submitted within 30 days of the passenger’s departure from the UAE.

For Dubai residents, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD) is responsible for issuing the refund.

Refund amount and fees

According to GDRFAD, the following charges apply when paying the security deposit:

• Financial security deposit: Dh1,000

• Security deposit service fee: Dh20

• Collection and reimbursement fee: Dh40

What documents are required for the Dubai visit visa refund?

When applying for the refund, you must provide proof that the passenger has exited the UAE. This proof can be in the form of:

• A scan or screenshot of the passport exit stamp, or

• A travel report from GDRFAD showing the exit and entry dates, along with the passport number.

You can request the travel report through the GDRFAD website or the Dubai Now app.

In addition to the travel report or exit stamp, you will also need to provide:

• A copy of the passenger’s passport and visit visa

• The original receipt of the security deposit payment

In some cases, you may not need to provide separate proof of exit, as the immigration system automatically updates the exit status once the passenger leaves the country.

How to apply for the visit visa refund online

If the visitor has exited the UAE or changed sponsorship, you can submit the refund request online or through an Amer Centre in Dubai.

To apply online:

1. Visit the GDRFAD website – www.gdrfad.gov.ae and click the log-in icon. Sign in using your UAE Pass.

2. Once redirected to your dashboard, go to ‘Existing Applications and Dependents’.

3. Enter the visit visa application number or transaction number, along with the visa validity dates.

4. Locate the visit visa application and click on ‘Refund’.

5. Review the refund details, including the amount, refund method, and your registered mobile number, then click ‘Process Refund’.

After submitting, you will receive a tracking number to monitor your refund status. According to GDRFAD, the refund amount is credited to your bank account within two working days.

Important note: This article is for information purposes only. Applicants should always check with the relevant authorities – ICP and GDRFA-Dubai – for the latest requirements and guidance. For ICP, the toll-free number is 600 522222 and for GDRFA-Dubai, the toll-free number is 800 5111.

This article was published in 2024 and has been updated since.