UAE visa matters don’t have to be confusing. Whether you’re working in Dubai or living in Sharjah, knowing how to check residency visa status in UAE is essential. It’s also important to understand the process of visa cancellation. Fortunately, the UAE has made these procedures smooth and fully digital, with no queues or endless paperwork.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key steps in a simple and practical way. You’ll learn how to:
- Track your UAE visa application
- Perform a Dubai residency visa status check
- Use the correct government portals
- Cancel your visa online without hassle
- Avoid automatic cancellation
- Contact the right helplines for assistance.
Importance of Checking Residency Visa Status in UAE
Are you in the UAE for work, business, or family? Keeping track of your visa status helps you in many ways. It helps avoid overstaying fines and plan your travels easily. Mohre employment contract
timelines align while staying compliant with UAE labor laws becomes easy. It is advisable not to wait for surprises. Be proactive in checking your visa. The process just takes a few minutes.
Platforms to Use for Visa Services in the UAE
The UAE offers two major portals for visa tracking and services. The platform you use depends on the emirate you reside in.
| Platform | For Residents In | Services Offered |
| ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) | Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah | Residency visa status check, Dubai, validity check, visa cancellation |
| GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) | Dubai | Visa tracking, application status, cancellation, renewals |
How to Check Residency Visa Status in UAE Using ICP (For Non-Dubai Emirates)
If you’re in any emirate except Dubai, use the ICP portal. Here’s how:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the official ICP portal: https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae
- From the menu, click on ‘Public Services’
- Select ‘File Validity’ or ‘Visa Status’
- Choose how you want to search:
- By File Number
- By Passport Information
- Enter:
- Passport Number
- Passport Expiry Date
- Nationality
- Complete the captcha
- Click Search
What You’ll See
- Visa type (work, visit, or residence)
- Expiry date
- Sponsor details
- Current status (active or cancelled)
How to Check Residency Visa Status in UAE (GDRFA Portal)
For Dubai residents, the GDRFA portal is your go-to.
Simple Steps to Follow
- Go to the GDRFA website: https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae
- Select ‘Visa Status Inquiry’
- Choose the type of request:
- Application
- File Number
- Reconsideration Request
- Establishment Number
- Fill in your file/Application Number and Nationality
- Enter the captcha
- Click Search or Track
You can also use the DubaiNow App, available on Google Play and App Store.
How to Check Residence Visa Status Offline?
No internet? No problem. Use these phone services for quick help:
| Service | Phone Number | Who Can Use It |
| Amer (Dubai only) | 800 5111 (within UAE) +9714-313-9999 (from abroad) | Dubai visa holders |
| ICP Support | Check the ICP Contact Page | All Emirates except Dubai |
Ask about your visa status, expiry date, or even cancellation queries.
How to Check Residence Visa Validity Online?
Want to see how long your visa is valid? Use this simple method on the ICP website:
- Go to https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae
- Select ‘Passport Information’
- Choose ‘Residency’ or ‘Visa’
- Fill in passport number, passport expiry, and nationality
- Click Search
You’ll see your visa’s expiration date instantly.
How to Cancel Your UAE Residency Visa Online?
Leaving the UAE or changing employers? In both scenarios, you must cancel your existing visa before moving forward.
Documents Required
The documents you’ll need to cancel your residency visa online are as under:
- Passport copy
- Emirates ID (original may be required in some cases)
- Sponsor’s approval (from employer or spouse)
How to Cancel Through ICP (Non-Dubai Emirates)?
- Go to the ICP portal
- Choose Visa Services → Cancel Visa
- Enter your details and upload documents
- Pay the cancellation fee. The fee is usually between AED 100 and AED 200
- Submit and track the cancellation online
How to Cancel Through GDRFA (Dubai)?
- Log in to the GDRFA portal
- Navigate to ‘Cancellation Services’
- Enter your file number or Emirates ID
- Attach the required documents
- Confirm and pay the fee
- Track cancellation status from your dashboard
How to Avoid Automatic Visa Cancellation?
Your UAE residence visa becomes void if you leave the UAE for more than 6 months continuously. Even if your visa is still valid. You should return to the UAE before 180 days are up. Apply for re-entry permission from GDRFA or ICP if you can’t return in time. Must keep travel reminders to avoid missing deadlines.
Check your residence visa status online to confirm if it’s still active. You can still view it if you’re outside the UAE.
What Happens If Your Visa is Cancelled?
You have a grace period of 30 days once your visa is officially cancelled. Either leave the country or get a new visa. It could be any visa, investor, dependent, or employment visa UAE. Convert your visa status through a registered typing center. Act promptly, as failure to act during the grace period may lead to overstay fines. The fines start from AED 50/day.
Bonus Tips: Stay Visa-Savvy in the UAE
- Use official apps to act instantly. Install ICP Smart and Dubai now for quicker access
- Cross-checking file numbers is important. A mismatch can delay status updates
- Keep scanned copies with you. Try to save your visa, passport, and Emirates ID digitally
- Sign-up for alerts is essential. Some services notify you of visa renewal or expiry
Wrapping Up!
It is easier than ever to acknowledge your UAE residency visa status. Helpful if you’re applying, checking, or cancelling visas. These online portals are designed to make it fast and stress-free.
There’s no need to visit offices or wait in line. Manage your entire visa process from your laptop or phone with just your passport details and a few clicks.
Stay updated with your UAE residency visa status by hiring the services of The UAE Gate. Our team best aligns with your requirements, and you’ll get assistance on every issue regarding your residency visa. Either apply for a residency visa, cancel it, renew, or check visa status with the specialist team!
Quick Reference Table:
| Action | Platform | Steps |
| Check Visa Status (Non-Dubai) | ICP Portal | File No or Passport Info → Captcha → Search |
| Check Visa Status (Dubai) | GDRFA Portal | App/File No → Captcha → Track |
| Cancel Visa | ICP / GDRFA | Upload Docs → Pay Fee → Submit |
| Offline Help | Amer or ICP | Call 800 5111 or Visit Portal |
If you need any help, contact us now and get in touch with our expert.
