Migration and residence visas in Dubai
This section is dedicated to Dubai's migration authorities: the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), Amer service centers, the federal authority ICP and the Tasheel centers serving the Ministry of Human Resources (MOHRE). Almost all matters related to legal stay in the emirate go through these, from entry permits to residence visas and the Emirates ID.
People come here to issue or extend a residence visa, sponsor family members, obtain or renew an Emirates ID, or change their stay status. Work permits and employment contracts are handled by MOHRE through Tasheel centers; matters related to residence (entry, stay, status change) are resolved via GDRFA and Amer centers.
Today a significant part of the procedures can be done online: checking visa status, extensions, paying fees and submitting applications via the apps and portals of GDRFA and ICP. At the same time, some steps still require being there in person (for example, providing biometrics for the Emirates ID or a medical examination). Before visiting, it is worth learning the current document list and the center's working hours.
Institutions on the map
Migration Amer Center
Amer CenterAmer service centres process GDRFA visas and government services, helping residents and visitors with residence and entry visas without going to the main directorate.
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Migration Emirates ID (ICA)
Federal Authority for Identity & CitizenshipThe Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) issues the Emirates ID, the identity document mandatory for all UAE residents.
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Migration GDRFA Dubai (immigration service)
GDRFA DubaiThe General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs of Dubai (GDRFA) handles the issuance and renewal of visas and residence permits, as well as visa-status checks.
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Migration Tasheel (labour services)
TasheelTasheel centres provide the services of the UAE Ministry of Human Resources: arranging work visas, work permits and employment contracts.
View on mapFrequently asked questions
What is the difference between GDRFA, Amer, ICP and Tasheel?+
GDRFA is Dubai's migration directorate; Amer centers are its authorized service offices for visa and residence matters. ICP is the federal authority for identity and residence; Tasheel are the centers serving MOHRE on work matters.
How do I extend a residence visa in Dubai?+
Extending a residence visa in Dubai is usually done through GDRFA, online via the portal or app or through an Amer center. The exact documents and timelines vary by visa type and sponsor.
How do I issue or renew an Emirates ID?+
The Emirates ID is issued by the federal authority ICP; the application can be made online or through a service center, after which biometrics are provided. The ID is usually issued together with the residence visa.
Can I sponsor a visa for family members?+
Yes, a resident can sponsor their spouse, children and, in some cases, parents when they meet the specified conditions. A family sponsorship application is made through GDRFA or an Amer center.
What do MOHRE and Tasheel centers deal with?+
MOHRE (the Ministry of Human Resources) is responsible for work permits and employment contracts; Tasheel centers arrange these applications. Matters relating to residence itself, however, are resolved through GDRFA, not Tasheel.