UAE visitors will now require to submit passport cover copy for entry permit

Visitors applying for entry permits to the UAE must now submit the outer cover page of their passport, according to new guidelines shared with travel agencies and visa processing centres. The change, which came into effect last week, adds to the list of documents already required for applicants, including a passport copy, a clear passport-size photo, hotel booking confirmation, and a round-trip ticket, according to a report by Khaleej Times.

Amer centres handling visa applications confirmed that the new rule is mandatory, as per the Khaleej Times report. “This has been added to the requirements since last week,” said one representative. “We have received notifications from travel agencies regarding this and are now uploading the external cover page along with our application.” Another executive added, “It is not possible to get an entry permit without it now.”

According to the Khaleej Times report, attaching the external passport cover page is compulsory for all categories of entry permits. Although no official explanation has been given yet, travel experts suggest that the update may help authorities avoid confusion in processing applications.


The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) have yet to issue a public statement on the change.

The UAE continues to remain a popular destination for both leisure and business travellers. Authorities say the updated requirements are aimed at streamlining the visa process, though applicants are advised to check the latest guidelines before applying to avoid delays or rejections.