Returning to Dubai? Here’s How to Get Your Return Permit After 6 Months Abroad
If you’re a Dubai resident who’s been away from the UAE for over six months due to reasons like studying abroad or undergoing treatment, you can come back with a return permit from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD). Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility for applying Return Permit to Dubai
- Open to Dubai residents who’ve been outside the UAE for over 180 days with a valid reason.
Application Process for applying Return Permit to Dubai
- Go to gdrfad.gov.ae
- Use UAE Pass for quick access. Verify your identity through the app.
- Once logged in, click on ‘Create New Application’ on your personal dashboard.
- Choose ‘Return Permit for Resident outside UAE More than 6 months’.
- Start completing the application form. If you logged in using your UAE Pass account, most details will be automatically filled, except for the reason and contact information. However, if you used a GDRFA online account, you’ll need to provide the following information:
- Sponsor Information: Sponsor’s name
- Passport Details: Passport number , Passport issue date, Passport expiry date
- Applicant Details:
- Current nationality
- Profession
- Mother’s name in English and in Arabic
- Proceed to indicate the reason for your extended absence from the UAE for over six months. Choose from the following options available in the dropdown menu:
- Study
- Health
- Crisis or disaster
- Other
- Choose the arrival emirate, with Dubai being the sole option available in the dropdown menu.
- Then, provide your contact information:
- Email address
- Mobile number
- Additionally, include an alternate email address to receive a copy of the approval permit and receipt.
- Upload the necessary documents. You’ll need to attach copies of your Emirates ID and passport, along with any other documents supporting your request for the permit. This might include proof of the reason for your extended stay outside the country for more than six months.
- Pay the application fee using your debit or credit card.
- After completing the form, click ‘Submit’.
Processing and Validity time for the Return Permit to Dubai
- Processing usually takes two working days but may vary. The permit is valid for one month from the approval date, not exceeding the residence expiry date.
For Non-Dubai Residents:
- If you have a residence visa issued outside Dubai (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.), apply through the ICP smart services portal at smartservices.icp.gov.ae.
Final Steps:
- After approval, you’ll receive the permit via email. Keep the transaction number for status updates.
Returning to Dubai after an extended absence is possible with the right documentation and process. Make sure to follow these steps to smoothly obtain your return permit.