The UAE has officially moved away from the traditional practice of stamping residency visas on passports. UAE residents’ Emirates ID now officially serves as their primary residency document, having replaced the visa stickers that were previously stamped onto passports.
From April 11 onwards, residency applications — whether new or renewal — are unified, meaning residents no longer need to go through separate processes for their visa and Emirates ID. This change simplifies the residency process significantly and reduces paperwork for millions of residents across the UAE.
Previously, the pink-coloured visa sticker on passports served as the primary residency document. Photocopies of the same sticker had to be submitted for different services requiring proof of residence. Immigration officials at ports of departure outside the UAE also checked the sticker to ensure a resident had the necessary travel clearance.
“With the stamping process scrapped, how do residents prove their residency? According to a report on Emarat Al Youm, there are three ways to verify residency. These are based on procedures announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP).”
How Do Residents Prove Their Residency?
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has announced three official ways for UAE residents to verify their residency status:
The Emirates ID card has received a major upgrade and now contains all relevant residency-related information that was previously available on the visa sticker. The new generation of Emirates ID contains personal and professional data, the issuing entity, and other readable data via an e-link system.
The pink-coloured residency sticker continues to be available virtually through the ICP smart app for residents who require it for official or administrative purposes.
Residents can obtain their residency details in a printed format with the authority’s official stamp through the ICP app or by visiting the official website at www.icp.gov.ae.
What Does This Mean for Travel?
The ICP has coordinated with all relevant stakeholders in the aviation sector to ensure they are fully briefed about the latest residency-related updates. For residents traveling outside the UAE, officials can verify their entry status via a passport reader, making the process seamless and efficient.
For residents outside the UAE, immigration officials are able to verify entry status through a passport reader, ensuring smooth travel without the need to present a physical visa sticker.
Need Help with Your Emirates ID or Residency Documents?
Premium Center provides complete assistance for Emirates ID applications, renewals, and all residency-related services. Our team is experienced in handling all ICP and GDRFA requirements efficiently and accurately.
Visit us at One Deira Mall, New Gold Souk, near Hyatt Regency, Dubai or call us on 04 526 4444. Our team is ready to assist you.