United Arab Emirates: Electronic Issuance of Residence Permits Implemented in Most Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is now issuing residence permits electronically, instead of endorsing foreign nationals’ passports with a residence visa stamp. As a result of this new process, foreign nationals must use their Emirates Identity Card as proof of residency status and for international travel. While the Emirate of Dubai has chosen not to follow this new process, the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) is exceptionally issuing electronic residence permits, and will also endorse a residence permit in a foreign national’s passport if it is submitted in person by a company’s public relations officer. No further details have been announced on when the rest of Dubai will begin issuing residence permits electronically.