How to Get Visa Copy Online in UAE? | Step By Step Guide!

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Have you ever needed a copy of your UAE visa but weren’t sure how to get it online? Whether you are a tourist, resident, or employee, having a digital or printed visa copy is essential for travel, legal procedures, and administrative tasks. But where can you download your visa? Which UAE government portals should you use?

In this guide, we will walk you through step-by-step methods to download your visa copy using ICP Smart Services and GDRFA Dubai. We’ll also cover common issues, fees, and troubleshooting tips to ensure a smooth process.

By following this guide, you can retrieve your UAE visa copy quickly and avoid unnecessary delays. Let’s explore the easiest way to get your UAE visa copy online.

Why Do You Need a Copy of Your UAE Visa?

A UAE visa is a crucial document that grants permission to enter, stay, or work in the country. While digital records exist, keeping a physical or digital copy of your visa is essential for various legal and practical reasons. Many official procedures in the UAE require a visa copy, and not having one could lead to unexpected complications.

Situations Where a Visa Copy is Required:

Tourists & Visitors: When entering the UAE, visitors may need to show their visa copy at immigration checkpoints or hotel check-ins. Some activities, such as obtaining a SIM card, require a valid visa document.
Residents & Workers: UAE residents must provide their residence visa copy when opening a bank account, applying for an Emirates ID, or renewing a driving license. Employers often require a visa copy for salary processing and other employment formalities.
Business Owners & Investors: If you own a business in the UAE, visa copies are necessary for government approvals, trade licenses, and corporate registrations.
Families & Dependents: Schools and healthcare providers often require a visa copy for student enrollment, medical insurance, and hospital admissions. Dependents sponsored by a UAE resident must have their visa copies available at all times.

Is a Printed Copy Necessary?

Although most visa services are now digital, a printed visa copy is highly recommended, especially when traveling. In some cases, internet access may be unavailable, and immigration authorities may request a physical copy for verification.

Having a printed visa copy ensures smooth travel and prevents any last-minute issues at airports or government offices.

What Are the Different Ways to Download a UAE Visa Copy?

The UAE government provides multiple platforms to download a visa copy based on the emirate and the type of visa issued. Whether you are a visitor, resident, or employee, knowing the right portal to use is essential for a quick and hassle-free visa retrieval process.

Can You Download Your Visa Copy Online?

Yes, you can download a UAE visa copy online through official government portals. The two primary platforms for visa retrieval are:

ICP Smart Services (For All Emirates Except Dubai): This platform, managed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), is used for visa-related services for residents and visitors in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain.
GDRFA Portal (For Dubai Visa Holders): The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) manages Dubai visas. If your visa was issued in Dubai, you must use the GDRFA system for verification and downloading.

Alternative Ways to Obtain a Visa Copy

MOHRE (For Work Visa Holders): Employees with UAE work visas can request a copy from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) website or through their employer.
Employer or PRO Services: If your visa was processed through a company, your HR or Public Relations Officer (PRO) can provide a copy.
Airline Portals: Some airlines allow passengers to retrieve their visa copies when booking flights, especially for tourist visas.

Choosing the right method ensures a smooth and fast process when retrieving your UAE visa copy.

How to Download a UAE Visa Copy via ICP Smart Services? (For All Emirates Except Dubai)

Downloading your UAE visa copy from ICP Smart Services is a straightforward process. This platform allows residents, visitors, and business owners to access visa-related services online without visiting government offices.

Step-by-Step Guide to Download a UAE Visa Copy via ICP:

1. Visit the Official ICP Smart Services Website

Go to https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae.
This is the official portal for UAE immigration services outside of Dubai.

2. Navigate to Public Services

On the homepage, look for the “Public Services” section and scroll down.
Click on “Visa Details-Print” under the Reports category.

Click on the “Start Service”

3. Enter Your Details

Provide the following information:

Passport number
Visa file number (found on your visa)
Date of birth
Nationality
Registered mobile number (for OTP verification)
Solve the captcha to confirm that you are a human user.

4. Confirm Your Details

The system will cross-check the information entered. If all details match, the visa copy retrieval process will continue.

5. Pay the Visa Copy Download Fee

A small fee applies to retrieve a visa copy. The exact fees are:

Visa Copy Issuance Fee: AED 50
ICP Service Fee: AED 20
E-service Fee: AED 10
Smart Services Fee: AED 10
Total Cost: AED 90

6. Download and Print Your Visa Copy

Once the payment is confirmed, your visa copy will be available for download.
Save a digital copy and print a hard copy for official use.

Using ICP Smart Services ensures that your visa details are accurate and up to date, making it easy to retrieve and print your visa whenever needed.

How to Download a UAE Visa Copy via GDRFA Portal? (For Dubai Visa Holders)

If your visa was issued in Dubai, you must use the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) portal to download a copy. This platform is specifically designed for Dubai residents, workers, and visitors to access visa-related services.

Step-by-Step Guide to Download a UAE Visa Copy via GDRFA:

1. Visit the GDRFA Website

Go to https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae.
This is the official immigration portal for Dubai.

2. Select “Visa Status”

On the homepage, navigate to “Visa Status” or “Residency Inquiry” (for residents).
This section allows you to check visa validity and download a copy.

3. Enter Required Details

Provide the following information:

Visa file number (available on your visa)
Passport number
Date of birth
Nationality

4. Verify Your Identity

You will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on your registered mobile number.
Enter the OTP to proceed with the request.

5. Confirm Details and Proceed

If the details match the immigration records, your visa copy will be available for download.

6. Pay the Applicable Fees

30-day tourist visa fee: AED 200.
60-day tourist visa fee: AED 300.
In addition to value added tax (5%).
Security deposit: There is no security deposit amount on this type of visa
Additional fees (if the sponsored person is inside UAE):
Knowledge dirham: AED 10.
Innovation Dirham: AED 10.

7. Download and Print Your Visa Copy

Once the payment is processed, you can download and print your visa copy for travel, legal, or administrative purposes.

For any errors or missing visa records, you may need to contact GDRFA support or visit a typing center for manual verification.

How Long Does It Take to Get a UAE Visa Copy Online?

The time required to download a UAE visa copy depends on various factors, including the accuracy of the provided details, the platform used, and any potential system delays. In most cases, the process is quick and can be completed in a few minutes. However, certain issues may cause delays.

Standard Processing Time:

Instant Download (5-10 Minutes): If all the entered details are correct, the visa copy is usually available for download within 5 to 10 minutes on ICP Smart Services or GDRFA Dubai.
Payment Processing (5-15 Minutes): If a service fee is required, the payment must be confirmed before the visa copy is generated. Most online payments are processed instantly, but some transactions may take a few extra minutes.
Incorrect Information (24-48 Hours Delay): If any details are incorrect (such as passport number, visa file number, or date of birth), the system may fail to retrieve the visa. You may need to recheck the information or contact immigration authorities, which can take up to 48 hours.
Technical Issues or Manual Verification (1-3 Days): If the system does not display your visa due to technical errors or missing records, manual verification may be required. In such cases, it can take 1 to 3 working days to receive the visa copy.

What to Do If the Visa Copy Is Not Available Immediately?

Double-check your details (passport number, visa file number, Emirates ID, date of birth).
Try a different portal (ICP Smart Services for all emirates except Dubai, GDRFA for Dubai visas).
Wait for a few hours if the system is undergoing maintenance.
Contact UAE immigration support if the visa copy is not retrieved after 24 hours.

By ensuring all details are accurate and using the correct platform, you can quickly obtain your UAE visa copy without unnecessary delays.

What Are the Common Issues While Downloading a UAE Visa Copy & How to Fix Them?

While downloading a UAE visa copy online is generally a smooth process, some users encounter errors or delays due to incorrect details, system issues, or missing records. Understanding these common problems and their solutions can help you resolve issues efficiently.

1. Incorrect Visa or Passport Information

Issue: If your passport number, visa file number, or date of birth is entered incorrectly, the system may not retrieve your visa details.
Solution: Double-check all entered details and match them with your official visa document. Even a small mistake can prevent retrieval.

2. Visa Not Found in the System

Issue: The portal may not display your visa copy due to expired records, system errors, or missing updates.
Solution:

Try using another official portal (ICP for non-Dubai visas, GDRFA for Dubai visas).
If your visa has recently been approved, wait 24-48 hours as the system updates.
Contact ICP or GDRFA customer support for manual verification.

3. OTP (One-Time Password) Not Received

Issue: If your registered mobile number is incorrect or inactive, you may not receive the OTP for verification.
Solution:

Ensure that your mobile number is correctly linked to your visa.
If the number is outdated, visit an immigration office or a typing center to update it.

4. Payment Not Processed or Confirmed

Issue: If the payment for the visa copy download fee is not processed successfully, the request may not go through.
Solution:

Check your bank/card details and try the transaction again.
If the payment was deducted but the visa is not available, wait 30-60 minutes before retrying.
Contact ICP/GDRFA support if the payment issue persists.

5. System Downtime or Technical Issues

Issue: Government portals undergo maintenance at times, making the system temporarily unavailable.
Solution:

If you encounter an error message, wait a few hours before trying again.
Check the official UAE immigration website or social media channels for service updates.

Who to Contact If You Still Cannot Retrieve Your Visa Copy?

ICP Smart Services Helpline: For Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain visas.
GDRFA Dubai Customer Support: For Dubai visa holders.
Visit a Typing Center: If online retrieval fails, authorized typing centers can assist with manual processing.

By troubleshooting these common issues, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when retrieving your UAE visa copy.

Conclusion

Downloading a UAE visa copy online is a simple but essential process that ensures you have access to your visa whenever needed. Whether you are a tourist, resident, or worker, keeping a digital or printed copy helps with immigration, banking, employment, and travel requirements.

By using the ICP Smart Services or GDRFA portal, you can quickly retrieve your visa details. However, if you face any issues, such as missing records or payment errors, contacting UAE immigration authorities or visiting a typing center can help resolve them.

Always ensure your details are accurate before submitting a request to avoid unnecessary delays. With the right approach, you can access your UAE visa copy hassle-free anytime, anywhere.

FAQs

How can I check if my UAE visa is still valid?

You can check your visa validity online through ICP Smart Services (for non-Dubai visas) or GDRFA (for Dubai visas) by entering your passport number and visa file number.