Q&A: All UAE residents need to know about ICA permits

The UAE's Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) has shared detailed a Q&A on the permits required to enter the country.

For getting an entry permit, the applicant must enter the details of a family member inside the country. Return permits are available to all categories of residents, but priority is given to first-level relatives of residents who are inside the country, people of determination and professionals working in the healthcare sector, energy and communications sector, educational sector, business and economic activities sectors.

Here's all you need to know:

Q: Does the ICA's smart services apply to Dubai residents?
No, This service is not available to Dubai residents. They can apply for issue permits at the GDRFA's website here.

Q: Is it possible to use the ICA permit through Dubai airports?
Yes, as those who have an active entry permit can enter the country from any of the country's airports.

Q: I can't complete the application as it is required to give the name of a family member who is in the country.
In that case, you must enter the details of a related person who is considered as a family member and who is in the country.

Q: My request has been approved. What is the next step?
After getting the approvals for your request, you need to book the returning ticket through the available airlines, and only those with entry permits will be allowed to board the flight. The validity of the entry permit is 21 days from the day of approval.

Q: How can I check the status of my application?
You can check the application status here.

Q: How can I know when my application is approved?
The approval notification will be sent through the email that was registered while applying the request.

Q: What are the procedures to be followed in the case of a newborn baby outside the country?
The newborn will be enabled to obtain an entry visa following the default registration  in this regard, in conjunction with the mother holding a valid residency  and having an entry permit.

Q: What is the validity of the entry permit and what is the procedure if it exceeds the allowed period?
The validity period for the issued permit is 21 days from the date of approval, and the entry permit is considered cancelled after the period. Residents should apply for new permits.

Q: If the application is rejected, can a new application be submitted?
Yes, another application can be made if the application is rejected.

Q: If the name or wrong passport information is entered in the submitted application, what is the procedure to modify it?
The audit team will return the application for modification. The data will be corrected automatically according to the registered info on the used ID number in the application.

Q: What are the categories that meet the requirements for return to the country?
Return permits are given to all categories with priority given to those who have family members in the country and also to those working in specific sectors and professions like health, energy, communications, business and other economic activities.

Q: Are there any specific countries from where travellers are allowed to return?
No, there are no specific countries and it is dependent on the availability of airlines.

Q: My service was terminated at work due to my absence from the country. Can I apply for a request to return to the country?
Only applications with active and valid residency are accepted. You should apply for a new visa in case your residency is cancelled.

Q: Should airline tickets be booked before or after obtaining the entry permit?
Initial approval is required before booking the airline tickets.