Photo rule for visas from August 20

As per the rule, the DNRD now requires the photograph of the person for whom the visa is to be issued, confirmed DNRD director, Brigadier Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri.

Al Marri noted: “The decision applies to all categories of visas. The objective is to protect people as it’s a preventive action against any kind of manipulation or tampering of visas.

“The decision is in compliance with the directives of the Minister of Interior, Lt-Gen. Shaikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan.” As per the new rule, a sponsor has to submit the visa application — of the person he is sponsoring — along with a colour photocopy (instead of a black and white photocopy) of the person’s passport. DNRD will fix the applicant’s photograph on the visa.