Do you reside in the UAE or plan to visit soon? Knowing your visa status is not optional anymore. Miss an expiry date can lead to fines, delays and challenges at immigration. The good news? The UAE government has unveiled an official guide to keep visa checks free, quick, and online. Forget agents and paperwork runs. It’s now all about two official portals doing all the business for you.
How To Check UAE Visa Status And Expiry Online In 2026 (Official Guide)
Which UAE Government Portal Should You Use?
Visa tracking in the UAE runs through two authorities, as mentioned in a report by the Times of India. If your visa came from Dubai, your route is different from the rest of the country.
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai)
Handles all Dubai-issued visas. - Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP)
For visas issued across other emirates of the UAE, like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain.
Use the portal wisely, depending on where your visa was issued.
How To Check Visa Status For Dubai-Issued Visas
If Dubai issued your entry permit or residence visa, you need to refer to GDRFA Dubai.
Steps To Check Online:
- Visit the official GDRFA Dubai website
- Select the visa status or visa validity option
- Choose a search method. Application number or file number
- Enter your details, like first name, nationality, date of birth, and file number
- Complete the Captcha and click search
Your visa status appears instantly, including issue and expiry dates.
Confused about handling the online process? Call the Amer Centre at 800 5111 (within UAE) or +971 4 313 9999 from outside the country for human assistance.
How To Check Visa Status For Other Emirates
For visas issued across other emirates of the UAE, visit the ICP Smart Services portal.
Steps through ICP:
- Open the ICP Smart Services Portal
- Go to Public Services and select File Validity
- Choose your search type from File number or passport details
- Enter required information such as UID number, passport number, nationality, and date of birth
- Complete the Captcha and click search
Your visa details and expiry date will appear on screen.
The ICP helpline is available at 600 522 222 if you need any other support.
What Details You’ll See In The Results
Both portals give you the same core information, only designated for different Emirates in the UAE.
You’ll see:
- Visa or file number
- Visa type and current status
- Date of issue
- Date of expiry
That’s all you need to plan travel, on-time renewal or handle dependent visas without stress.
Why Checking Visa Status Online Actually Matters
Online checks help you stay legal:
- Avoid overstay fines
- Plan timely visa renewals
- Prepare for travel without end-moment suprises
- Support the employer or sponsor paperwork
- Skip unnecessary visits to immigration offices.
Also Read: UAE: Seven Visa Violations That Can Lead To Jail And Deportation
Final Word
If you live in the UAE, checking your visa status should feel as normal as checking your bank balance. The tools exist, and they are completely free for everyone. So spend a few minutes online rather than beating problems later.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/annastills
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