What is Outpass in UAE? Everything You Need to Know

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Are you confused about what an Outpass is in the UAE and whether you need one? You’re not alone. Many residents, expatriates, and even tourists find themselves unsure about exit permits, especially in situations involving visa overstays, lost passports, or deportation.

So, what exactly is an Outpass, and how does it work in the UAE’s legal and immigration system? Whether you’re leaving due to a change in employment, personal emergencies, or legal complications, understanding the purpose and process of obtaining a UAE Outpass is crucial.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know, from who needs it, how to apply, required documents, fees involved, and the steps to ensure a smooth and lawful exit from the country.

What Exactly is an Outpass in the UAE?

An outpass, also known as an exit permit, is an official travel document issued by UAE immigration authorities to individuals who need to leave the country but face legal or logistical barriers.

These documents are particularly important for those who have overstayed their visas, lost their passports, or are subject to deportation. It serves as a one-time-use permit to legally exit the UAE.

In essence, an outpass acts as a temporary solution for people without valid travel documents. Rather than being stranded or facing legal action, this permit ensures a lawful departure.

It’s often required when an individual’s status in the UAE becomes irregular and they are no longer eligible to remain under their current visa.

Whether it’s the ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) or the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs), these authorities issue outpasses on a case-by-case basis depending on the applicant’s situation.

Why Would You Need an Outpass in the UAE?

There are several circumstances under which you might need an outpass to leave the UAE legally. These typically involve situations where standard travel documents are either not available or no longer valid. Common reasons include:

Visa Overstay: If you’ve exceeded your visa duration and can’t leave the country legally, an outpass is required.
Lost or Expired Passport: Individuals without valid identification documents can use an out-of-passport as a temporary travel solution.
Deportation Orders: When facing deportation, UAE authorities may issue an outpass to ensure legal compliance.
Newborn Exit: Newborns without valid travel documents also require an outpass, often facilitated by their parents or guardians.

The goal of this system is to streamline immigration processes and maintain accurate records of all departures from the UAE. For expatriates, this system ensures legal and procedural compliance, particularly if employment, sponsorship, or visa conditions have been violated.

How to Apply for an Outpass in the UAE?

There are three main ways to apply for a UAE Out Pass: through the GDRFA, ICP, or AMER Centres. Here’s how each process works:

1. Applying through GDRFA

Visit the GDRFA official website.
Navigate to “Services” and click on “Violator Follow-Up.”
Select “Exit Permit Service” → “Issuance of a Departure Permit.”
Log in with your GDRFA credentials.
Fill out the required form and upload all necessary documents.
Pay the service fee online.
Submit your application and await approval.
Once approved, download and print your outpass.

2. Applying through ICP (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship):

Visit the ICP website.
Log in with your UAE Pass or register a new account.
Click “interactive services” under the main services section.
Choose “Issue Exit Permit.”
Complete the application form and attach required documents.
Pay the applicable fee.
Submit your application for review and approval.

3. Applying through AMER Centres

Search “Amer service centres near me” on Google Maps.
Visit the centre and proceed to the reception.
Request the Outpass or Exit Permit service.
Submit the necessary documents for verification.
Pay the required service fee.
Receive a physical copy of the approved outpass.

Once you’ve submitted your application, whether online through GDRFA, ICP, or in person via an AMER Centre, all that’s left is to monitor the application status and wait for approval.

Upon receiving your approved Outpass, make sure to verify all personal details on the document, print a copy, and carry it with your travel documents. Remember, the Outpass is only valid for a limited period, so plan your departure accordingly to avoid further legal or immigration complications

What Documents Are Required for an Outpass?

The documents needed for an outpass vary based on the applicant’s situation. Here is a detailed breakdown:

Situation	Required Documents
Visa Violators	– Original & copy of passport – Copy of travel ticket – Two personal photos
Lost Passport	– Emergency travel document – Police report – Copy of travel ticket – Two personal photos
Newborns	– Original & copy of both parents’ passports – Birth certificate – Father’s request letter – Two child photos
Eye-Print Registration & Violators	– Passport copy – Two personal photos – Travel ticket copy

Make sure to carry both hard and soft copies of the documents, as different authorities may require them in specific formats.

What Is the Cost of Getting an Outpass in the UAE?

The fee for a UAE Out Pass can vary depending on the issuing authority and location of the application. Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved:

Through GDRFA: AED 241
Through ICP: AED 200
Additional AMER Centre Charges: AED 100
Bank Processing Fee (if any): AED 20

Make sure to verify the exact amount before proceeding, as service charges may change depending on where the application is filed.

How Long Does It Take to Receive an Outpass?

Generally, the processing time for a UAE Out Pass is up to 48 hours. However, it’s always advisable to apply several days in advance, especially if your departure date is fixed.

Factors that may affect processing time include:

Completeness of the application
Document verification time
Current volume of applications
Whether additional background checks are required

Delays can occur if supporting documents are missing or if the individual has any unresolved legal or immigration issues.

What Are the Rules and Conditions of Using an Outpass?

Once you receive a UAE Out Pass, you must follow specific rules to ensure a smooth departure:

One-Time Use: The outpass is valid for a single exit only.
Valid for 10 Days: You must leave the country within 10 days of issuance.
No Re-Entry: You cannot return to the UAE using an outpass. Future entry requires a valid visa.
Immediate Travel: Plan and book your exit as soon as the permit is issued to avoid fines or legal issues.
Legal Clearance: You must clear all outstanding fines, loans, or legal matters before leaving.

Failure to comply with these rules could result in further immigration complications, including future entry bans.

What Happens If You Overstay Your Visa Without an Outpass?

Overstaying your visa in the UAE has serious consequences:

Penalties:

Daily Fine: AED 50 for each day of overstay.
Additional Admin Fees: Up to AED 100 on top of the fine.

Legal Risks:

Deportation: Individuals may be forcibly removed from the UAE.
Entry Ban: You may be barred from re-entering the country for a set period.

Applying for an outpass in a timely manner can help avoid these penalties and legal troubles. It also helps facilitate legal travel without a black mark on your immigration record.

Outpass vs Exit Permit: What’s the Difference in the UAE?

Although often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle difference:

Feature	Outpass	Exit Permit
Purpose	Issued to individuals without valid documents	General term for all exit authorisations
Common Use	For overstayers, deportees, or lost passports	Broader usage, including lawful departures
Issued By	GDRFA or ICP	GDRFA, ICP, or border control

Both serve to facilitate legal exit, but the term “outpass” is typically used in more urgent or irregular cases.

Where to Get Help for Outpass Applications in the UAE?

If you’re unsure how to proceed or face complications, consider contacting:

Immigration Lawyers or Consultants
GDRFA Customer Service (8005111)
ICP Customer Support via icp.gov.ae
AMER Centre Helpline (04 396 9911)

Getting professional help can streamline the process, especially if you have legal concerns or an unclear immigration history.

Conclusion

Understanding the UAE Outpass process is essential for anyone facing issues like visa overstays, lost passports, or deportation. This temporary exit permit ensures that you can leave the country legally and avoid penalties or future entry bans.

Whether you’re applying through GDRFA, ICP, or an AMER Centre, it’s important to follow the correct steps, submit all required documents, and plan your exit within the given timeframe, usually 10 days. Delaying the process could lead to complications such as fines or legal action.

By being informed and proactive, you can ensure a smooth and lawful departure from the UAE. If in doubt, consult with immigration authorities or legal experts to guide you through the procedure efficiently and without unnecessary stress.