IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Authorities in Abu Dhabi will no longer issue entry permits or stamp residence visas for dependents whose sponsors are out of the country.

What does the change mean? Sponsors must be in the UAE at the time when entry permits are issued and when the passport is submitted for residence visa stamping.

  • Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
  • Visas/permits affected: Entry permits and residence visas for dependents.
  • Who is affected: Dependents seeking to obtain entry permits or have residence visas stamped in Abu Dhabi.
  • Impact on processing time: The change could delay entry permit issuance or residence visa stamping for dependents whose sponsor is out of the country.

Background: Authorities in Abu Dhabi implemented the rule in recent weeks without providing official notice. In the past, the Abu Dhabi authorities did not check sponsors’ immigration records in their system to determine whether they were inside or outside of the UAE. They are now doing so, however, and sponsors must be in the country when dependents’ entry permits are issued and when their passport is submitted for residence visa stamping.

BAL Analysis: In order to avoid unnecessary delays, sponsors should be sure they are in the UAE when processing dependent residence visas, along with providing their original Emirates ID card. Failure to do so could lead to delays.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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