Dubai, the glittering jewel of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), continues to attract millions of tourists, professionals, and business travelers every year. If you’re planning to visit Dubai or are already waiting for your visa approval, one of the most common questions is: “How do I check my Dubai visa status online?”
Whether you’ve applied for a tourist visa, visit visa, or residence visa, the UAE government has made it extremely convenient to track and verify your visa status online using official portals. This guide provides a step-by-step explanation on how to check your Dubai visa online easily, along with essential tips, FAQs, and platform options.
I personally booked my Dubai visa package through https://www.edubaivisa.com, and they gave excellent service. They handled everything smoothly, and I could easily track my visa updates thanks to their assistance.
Understanding Dubai Visa Types Before Checking Status
Before you begin checking your visa online, it’s helpful to know what type of visa you applied for. The process to check the status may vary slightly depending on the visa type and the issuing authority.
Common Visa Types You Can Check Online:
Tourist Visa (30/60 days) – for vacations and short stays
Visit Visa – if you’re visiting family or friends
Transit Visa (48/96 hours) – for stopovers in Dubai
Employment/Work Visa – sponsored by a UAE employer
Residence Visa – for long-term residents
The issuing authority will either be:
GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) – for visas issued by Dubai
ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) – for visas issued by other emirates
Knowing the correct platform based on your visa authority is essential to avoid confusion when tracking your visa.
✅ 1. How to Check Your Dubai Visa Status via GDRFA (For Dubai-Issued Visas)
If your visa was issued in Dubai, you should use the GDRFA Dubai online portal.
🔗 GDRFA Portal:
https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae
👇 Steps to Check Your Dubai Visa:
Visit the official GDRFA Smart Services website.
Click on “Visa Status Inquiry” or “Application Tracking”.
Choose the type of application:
Entry Permit
Residence Visa
Enter the required information:
Application Number or File Number
Passport Number
Nationality
Date of Birth
Solve the CAPTCHA or security check.
Click “Submit” or “Search”.
🟢 If Approved:
You’ll see your visa status as Approved, along with your name, visa type, validity period, and UID number.
If Under Process:
You will get an update saying the application is under review, and you may be prompted to check back later.
✅ 2. How to Check Your UAE Visa Status via ICP Smart Services (for Other Emirates)
If your visa is issued from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, or Fujairah, you need to use the ICP Smart Services portal.
ICP Portal:
https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae
Steps to Check Visa Status:
Go to the ICP Smart Services website.
Scroll down and click on “File Validity” under “Public Services”.
Choose the appropriate search method:
File Number (from visa application or residency file)
Passport Information
Enter the required details:
Passport number
Passport expiry
Nationality
Complete the CAPTCHA.
Click “Search”.
Output:
You’ll receive complete visa details including:
Visa Status (Active/Expired)
Full Name
Visa Number
Emirates Issued From
Expiry Date
3. Track Your Visa Application via eDubaiVisa.com (if applied through them)
If you applied through a third-party visa agency like https://www.edubaivisa.com, they usually provide you with a reference number or tracking link.
Enter your application reference number or email ID.
Click Track to get real-time updates.
This is the easiest way to stay informed without navigating official portals. Their customer service is also highly responsive, making it ideal for travelers who want extra support.
📧 4. Check via Email or SMS (if applicable)
If you applied through an agent or an airline, you may receive your visa copy via email once it’s approved. Some services even send an SMS notification upon visa approval. Always:
Check your spam/junk folder
Keep your application ID handy
Monitor your WhatsApp or email for updates
❓ 5. What to Do If You Can’t Find Your Visa Status?
If you’re unable to find your visa status online, consider the following:
Double-check that you’re using the correct portal (GDRFA or ICP).
Make sure your application number and passport details are accurate.
Wait a little longer – sometimes visas take 2–5 working days to process.
Contact your visa agency for help.
If you applied through eDubaiVisa.com, you can reach out to their support team who can verify the status for you.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid When Checking Dubai Visa Online
Using the wrong website (ICP instead of GDRFA or vice versa)
Entering incorrect passport details
Not selecting the correct visa category
Mistyping file or application number
Trying to check status too early (before it’s processed)
📝 Tips for Smooth Visa Checking Process
Always save a copy of your visa application and receipt.
Apply early to allow buffer time for delays.
Use an agency that provides tracking services and customer support.
Keep your passport and personal details handy when checking status.
🌍 Can You Check Visa Status from Anywhere?
Yes, the entire process is accessible online and can be completed from any country. All you need is a working internet connection and the correct details.
📄 What to Do Once Visa Is Approved
After your visa is approved:
Download and print the eVisa (PDF format).
Verify all information like name, passport number, and visa dates.
Carry a hard copy and digital copy during your travel.
Ensure your flight and hotel bookings align with your visa validity.
Conclusion
Checking your Dubai visa status online is now easier than ever thanks to digital portals provided by the UAE government. Whether you’re applying for a tourist visa or waiting on your residence permit, you can track everything in just a few clicks using GDRFA or ICP portals.
For added convenience and peace of mind, consider applying through a trusted agency like https://www.edubaivisa.com. Their excellent service and timely updates made my visa journey hassle-free and efficient.