Visas with a validity of more than six months are no longer renewable; how to apply in UAE with revised criteria

ABU DHABI: UAE announces new criteria for visa renewal. Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has announced that residence visas with a validity of more than six months cannot be renewed. In the past, visas with a validity of up to one year were allowed to be renewed.

The new move is based on the smart service system that has been in place since this month. Many services including visa cancellation and updating will be available in the smart service system. Register and verify the account for visa renewal on the ICP app or website. After that submit an application for renewal of visa permit. The prescribed fee shall also be paid. Medical examination and health insurance must be completed within the stipulated period to avoid cancellation of the application. A passport with a validity of not less than six months is also mandatory for the sponsoring person.