Entry Permit for Dubai Residence Visa Holders Staying Outside UAE for Over 180 Days – 2025 Update

 If you are a Dubai residence visa holder and have stayed outside the UAE for more than 180 days, you must obtain a Re-Entry Residence Permit to return. The UAE has updated its immigration laws, and residents must follow specific procedures before re-entering Dubai.

Key Updates in 2025

• Application Process: Residents must apply for a re-entry permit before returning to Dubai.
• Eligibility: Certain categories, such as Golden Visa holders, government employees on official assignments, and students studying abroad, may be exempt from visa cancellation.
• Fees: A fine of AED 100 is applicable for every 30 days spent outside the UAE beyond the 180-day limit.
• Approval Timeline: The General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) processes applications within five days.
• Entry Deadline: Once approved, the applicant must return within 30 days.

Required Documents

To apply for a Re-Entry Permit, the sponsor must submit:

• Application form (available at typing centers).
• Attested certificate explaining the reason for extended stay (approved by the UAE Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
• Passport copies of both the resident and the sponsor.
• Valid UAE residence visa (must not be expired).
• Applicable fees (AED 130 for processing + AED 100 per extra month outside the UAE).

Exceptions to Visa Cancellation

Certain residents can stay outside the UAE for more than six months without visa cancellation, including:

• Golden Visa holders.
• Government employees on official assignments.
• Students studying abroad.
• Residents are undergoing medical treatment.

Partner Visa or Investor Visa

If the individual holds a Partner Visa in Dubai and has stayed outside the UAE for more than 180 days, they must also apply for a Re-Entry Permit before returning. However, the process may vary slightly depending on their visa type and business ownership status.

Key Considerations for Partner Visa Holders

• Business Ownership: If the individual is a business partner in a Dubai-based company, their visa may remain valid as long as the company is operational and compliant with UAE regulations.
• Exemptions: Certain categories, such as Golden Visa holders, may be exempt from visa cancellation.
• Application Process: The partner must apply for a Re-Entry Permit through the General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
• Fees: A fine of AED 100 is applicable for every 30 days spent outside the UAE beyond the 180-day limit.
• Approval Timeline: The application is processed within five working days.
• Entry Deadline: Once approved, the applicant must return within 30 days.

Required Documents

To apply for a Re-Entry Permit, the partner must submit:

• Application form (available at typing centers).
• Attested certificate explaining the reason for extended stay (approved by the UAE Embassy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
• Passport copy of the partner.
• Valid UAE residence visa (must not be expired).
• Applicable fees (AED 130 for processing + AED 100 per extra month outside the UAE).

For more details, visit the General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs- Dubai:

• Toll-free: 8005111
• International Tel: +971 4 313 9999
• Website: Amer.ae

Also read- U.A.E Visa Rules and Procedures-Law updates -free legal advice: STAYING OUTSIDE U.A.E. FOR MORE THAN 180 DAYS

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