United Arab Emirates
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai
Dubai's residency and immigration authority for visas, entry permits, and travel services.
Overview
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai) runs all residency, entry permit, and immigration services for visas tagged to Dubai. It's the Dubai-specific counterpart to the federal ICP.
Residents and sponsors access services via the GDRFA-Dubai app or smart.gdrfad.gov.ae - residence visa issuance and renewal, entry permits, status change, and integration with the Amer service-centre network.
Services offered
- Dubai residency visas
- Entry permits
- Visa cancellation
- Sponsorship transfer
How to access
1. Download or visit
Install the 'GDRFA Dubai' app or open smart.gdrfad.gov.ae.
2. Log in with UAE PASS
UAE PASS gives instant access; alternatively register with passport and Emirates ID.
3. Use
Apply for visas and entry permits, track applications, and pay government fees online.
FAQs
No. GDRFA-Dubai handles Dubai-issued residency cases; ICP is the federal authority covering all other emirates.
Yes, via the app's 'Visa Validity' service using passport number, nationality, and date of birth.
Apply through the GDRFA app or an Amer centre while still in the UAE on a valid tourist or visit visa. Standard fee is around AED 650.
Skip the hassle
If you're stuck on a GDRFA Dubai transaction, a typing centre can take it from here.
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