UAE's New Visa Rule: Passport Cover Mandated

New Visa Requirement for UAE Visitors: Passport Cover Now Mandatory

Visitors to the United Arab Emirates are now subject to a new documentation requirement that could significantly impact both travel agencies and the visa application process for tourists. According to the new regulation, it is no longer sufficient to submit a copy of the passport data page; a copy of the passport's outer cover must now also be included when applying for an entry permit to the UAE.

This change, first reported by staff at several Dubai-based Amer centers, is already in effect and mandatory for all new submissions. A representative from one of the centers stated that the rule was introduced last week, and since then, all visa applications are only accepted in the system with a copy of the cover page.

What documents are now required?

The previously standard list of documents — which includes a copy of the passport, a clear photo against a white background, proof of accommodation, and copies of return flight tickets — has been expanded with a new element: a scanned version of the passport's outer cover. According to the new requirement, without this document, the application cannot be submitted.

Applicants must thoroughly review their passports, ensuring they not only digitize the personal data page but also the cover. It is important to note that the front cover, with the official country stamp, is needed, not the back cover.

Why was the change implemented?

Although no official explanation has yet been provided by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), several travel experts believe the decision was made for administrative clarification purposes.

An experienced travel organizer suggests that for certain passports, the nationality may be difficult to read or could be misleading, especially if noted in small print and less conspicuous. In such cases, the cover can be very helpful since it generally clearly displays the country's name and its crest or logo.

This simple step allows UAE authorities to more quickly and accurately ascertain the applicant's nationality, thereby reducing the chance of incorrect data submissions and streamlining the entire processing procedure.

How does this affect travelers?

At first glance, the change may seem minor but can actually present a significant administrative load for those who do not have an adequate quality copy of their passport cover. Many previously only digitized the data page, overlooking the cover, so they now must retake or rescan the entire document in good quality.

Travel agencies and visa intermediary centers (such as Amer centers) have already started incorporating the new requirements into their own processes, so those arranging visas through an agency are likely to encounter fewer issues. However, individual applicants — especially those submitting online — must pay closer attention to the completeness of their documents.

What should be considered when attaching documents?

During the visa application process, keep the following in mind:

The scanned copy of the cover page should be sharp, easily readable, and shadow-free.

Do not crop the edges of the image; all text, logos, or stamps should be visible.

If taking the photo with a smartphone, do so in natural light on a flat surface.

In some cases, the cover material may be shiny or embossed, making it difficult to capture a quality image without flash — several attempts might be necessary to meet the requirements.

The message of the change

The new requirement aligns well with the UAE's aim to digitalize, simplify, and enhance accuracy at every stage of visa processing. While it initially appears as additional administration, it ultimately increases system safety and reliability, reducing processing errors in the long run.

It may also be the first step in a broader, comprehensive document verification reform, especially considering that the UAE is increasingly exploring various visa types, including the golden visa, remote work visa, or freelance permits.

Summary

The visa application process for travel to the UAE now includes an additional step: the personal passport cover copy has become mandatory. The aim of the new rule is to more precisely identify applicants' nationality and avoid administrative misunderstandings. While this step may cause initial inconvenience, it could lead to faster, more accurate, and safer visa processing for everyone involved in the long term.

Travelers and intermediaries should keep abreast of these changes to avoid rejected applications and unnecessary delays. Dubai, as a key tourist destination, remains committed to efficient and transparent visa services — but traveler cooperation is essential for this.

(The article's source: The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) statement.)