How to Check Dubai Visa Status – A Step-by-Step Guide for UAE Visitors and Residents
Learn how to check your Dubai visa status online using passport number, GDRFA, ICP, DubaiNow, and more—with full troubleshooting tips.

Introduction
Millions of people travel to or reside in Dubai every year for tourism, work, or family. One of the most common needs for travelers and residents alike is knowing how to check Dubai visa status accurately and easily. Whether you’re applying for a new visa or confirming your existing one, this guide walks you through every available method.
We’ll cover options like checking your Dubai visa status online, verifying using a passport number, exploring both GDRFA and ICP portals, and even checking visa updates via mobile apps. Whether you’re searching from Pakistan, India, or any other part of the world, this guide has you covered.
Why Checking Your Dubai Visa Status Is Essential
Knowing your UAE visa status isn’t just about staying legal—it’s also about staying stress-free. You may need to track your Dubai visa application online for work clearance, flight bookings, or immigration approvals.
Common scenarios include:
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Waiting for visa approval
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Confirming visa validity
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Troubleshooting application errors
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Planning travel based on expiration dates
Methods to Check Dubai Visa Status Online
There are several official ways to check Dubai visa status online, each depending on how and where your visa was issued.
GDRFA Visa Status Check (for Dubai-issued visas)
If your visa is issued directly through Dubai, use the GDRFA visa status check. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) is responsible for visa services in the emirate.
You can perform a Dubai visa status inquiry using:
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Your passport number
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Nationality
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Passport expiry date
Just head to the GDRFA portal and choose the “File Validity” or “Visa Status Inquiry” option. This is ideal if you’re doing a check Dubai visa status GDRFA portal search.
You can also use this if you want to know how to check Dubai visa status using passport number or even how to check Dubai visa status online without reference number.
ICP Website (for visas issued outside Dubai)
For visas issued in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or other emirates, use the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).
On the ICP portal, you can:
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Check Dubai visa status ICP website
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Track UAE visa via file number
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Verify UAE residence visa status
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Do a UAE immigration visa status check
This is useful for those searching how to check UAE visa status from abroad, or even if you need to confirm details from within the UAE itself.
DubaiNow App Visa Status
Another simple method is the DubaiNow app visa status check. This app is integrated with official systems and provides real-time tracking of visa and Emirates ID status.
It’s ideal for residents who want to perform a visa Dubai check or conduct a UAE visa validity check directly from their phones.
Regional and Passport-Based Search Options
Dubai Visa Check by Passport Number
You don’t always need a reference number. If you’re wondering how to check Dubai visa status using passport number, use the “File Validity” service on either GDRFA or ICP. All you need is:
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Passport number
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Passport expiry date
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Nationality
This is one of the fastest ways to get your status.
Check Dubai Visa Status from Pakistan or India
A lot of users need to check Dubai visa status from Pakistan or check Dubai visa status from India before flying. Good news: both GDRFA and ICP portals are accessible globally.
Whether you’re a tourist, student, or employee waiting for clearance, all you need is an internet connection and valid documents.
MOFA Visa Check Dubai
If your visa was issued via diplomatic or official means, or you applied through a UAE consulate, then a MOFA visa check Dubai might be more appropriate. MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) allows certain users to track special visa categories.
Troubleshooting & Delays
Why is My Dubai Visa Status Not Showing?
Common reasons include:
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Mistyped passport or file number
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System glitches
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Application not yet processed
If your search yields no results, wait 24–48 hours and try again. You may also reach out directly to GDRFA support.
Dubai Visa Status Showing Under Process
This status usually means the application is being reviewed. It can take 2 to 7 working days depending on your visa type. You should continue to track Dubai visa application online until it changes to “Approved” or “Rejected.”
What to Do If Dubai Visa Is Rejected
A rejected visa isn’t the end of the road. Here’s what to do:
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Understand the rejection reason
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Re-submit with correct documentation
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Use the portal for a new Dubai visa status inquiry
If confusion remains, you can consult your PRO, travel agent, or immigration consultant.
FAQs – All About Dubai Visa Status
Can I check my visa status using just my passport number?
Yes. Both GDRFA and ICP portals allow that through “File Validity.”
How long does it take to update visa status in UAE?
Normally 3–7 business days, but this varies based on the visa category and workload.
Can I use mobile apps to track visa status?
Yes. The DubaiNow app provides real-time visa and residency tracking.
How can I check Dubai visa status without a reference number?
Use your passport number and select the appropriate nationality on the portal.
Is it possible to check visa status from abroad?
Absolutely. Both portals are accessible from anywhere in the world.
Conclusion
Knowing how to check Dubai visa status is crucial in 2025, whether you’re entering the UAE for the first time or renewing your residence. Use platforms like GDRFA, ICP, DubaiNow, and MOFA to stay on top of your visa information. Whether you’re searching how to check Dubai visa status online without reference number, or doing a Dubai visa check by passport number, this guide ensures you don’t miss a step.
Stay legal, stay informed—and travel with peace of mind.