UAE residents: How to apply online for a 90-day visit visa for friends and family
Explained: Online process, required documents, costs and security deposit for visit visa
Dubai: UAE residents wishing to invite friends or family to the country can apply for a 90-day single or multiple-entry visit visa through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP).
The visa is available in both 30-day and 90-day options, with the flexibility of single or multiple entries. The visa remains valid for entry within 60 days from issuance, and an extension can be requested if needed.
This service is available to residents holding a valid residence visa from any of the UAE's emirates: Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, or Umm Al Quwain.
Where can I apply for the three month visit visa?
The visa application can be made through three channels:
1. The ICP Smart Services website: smartservices.icp.gov.ae
2. The ICP mobile app – ‘UAEICP’, which is available for Apple and Android devices.
3. A typing centre authorised by ICP – you can find the list of approved typing centres in each Emirate by visiting this link: https://icp.gov.ae/en/typing-offices/
Documents required
If you are planning to apply for the visa for your family member or a friend, you would need to submit the following documents:
Recent passport size coloured photograph of the relative or friend.
Proof of kinship (birth or marriage certificate) – this is required in case you are sponsoring your family member’s visit visa. If you are providing a marriage or birth certificate, the documents must be attested.
A copy of the relative’s or friend’s valid passport.
A copy of your Emirates ID.
Proof of residence for the sponsored. This can either be a hotel reservation or a tenancy contract (if they are staying with you during the visit)
Copy of the return ticket.
According to ICP website – icp.gov.ae, the mandatory or optional documents may vary depending on the data entered in the application.
Additonal requirements
The visitor must be a first or second-degree relative and UAE reisdents applying for the visit visa must hold a job within the first or second level, according to a decision announced by the ICP in 2023.
A health insurance policy for the duration of the stay may be required depending on the visa processing authority.
How much does the visa cost?
As per ICP, the final cost of the visa would depend on the application details and the sponsor must pay a security deposit. Here is an estimated cost breakdown, as per the authority:
• Security deposit: Dh1,025. The financial guarantee is refundable if the visa is not approved.
• Request fees: Dh100
• Issue fees: Dh300
• E-services fees: Dh28
• ICP fees: Dh22
• Smart services fee: Dh100
Total: Dh1,575
How to apply for the visa online
The ‘UAEICP’ app is available for download on Apple, Android, and Huawei devices. Once installed, simply log in using your UAE Pass credentials.
If you prefer not to download the app, you can complete the process through the official ICP website at smartservices.icp.gov.ae. After logging in with your UAE Pass, you will be redirected to a personal dashboard.
From there, select the ICP department for your Emirate. In the search bar, type 'Visit Visa for Friend or Relative 90 Days (Single Entry) – Issue'. The service will appear in the search results.
Click on ‘Start Service,’ then complete the application form and upload the required documents. Afterward, make the payment using a credit or debit card.
Once your payment is processed, you will receive confirmation from ICP that your application has been submitted. According to ICP, processing takes about two to five business days. Upon approval, you will receive your e-visa via the email address you provided in the application.
If you wish to follow up on your application, you can track it online or call the ICP on 600522222.
This article was originally published in July 10, 2023 and has been updated since.
Do you have any questions related to the topics covered in the Living in UAE section? Write to us at readers@gulfnews.com
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
