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
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