How to Apply for ICA or GDRFA Approval to Return to UAE
To the relief of expats stranded outside of UAE, the National Crisis and Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA) announced on Twitter that UAE Resident Visa holders from six countries — India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Uganda, Nepal, and Nigeria — will be allowed entry into the UAE provided they procure a prior approval from Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA). This is a huge sigh of relief to employees stuck outside the UAE and also to entrepreneurs looking to carry out a new business setup in Dubai.
As per the announcement by ICA, the following prerequisites have to be fulfilled before entering the UAE:
- Procure an approval from Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA).
- Vaccination certificates by the relevant authorities.
- Carry out and submit an RT-PCR test taken within 48 hours of the time of departure. The test must be carried out only by the accredited laboratories and the test report must contain a QR Code.
- Follow precautionary measures like quarantine and PCR checks upon arrival.
ALSO READ: How to Register for the UAE Pass
How to get an approval from the ICA (For Sharjah & Ajman Residents)
Step 1: Visit the ICA website
Open the following link: https://smartservices.ica.gov.ae/echannels/web/client/guest/index.html#/registerArrivals
You may also access the above link by clicking on “Register Arrivals” on https://smartservices.ica.gov.ae/echannels/web/client/guest/index.html#/dashboard
Step 2: Fill in the application form
Enter your personal details like Name, Gender, Date of Birth, Departure country and time, etc. Ensure that all details entered are accurate, as further procedures will be communicated to you through the email address you provide.
Step 3: Enter passport details
The next section will require your passport details like passport type, passport number, passport issue date, etc.
Step 4: Enter your UAE details
Fill in your address in UAE and your UAE mobile number.
Step 5: Provide vaccine information
In this section, you will have to fill out the vaccine type, the first and second dosage dates, and PCR test dates.
Step 6: Upload Documents
Step 7: Confirm details
In the last step, you will have to check the box declaring that the entered details are accurate to your knowledge and that you will adhere to all the instructions stated.
After checking the box, click on Send.
If your submission is approved, you will get a confirmation on the provided email address from ICA.
How to Get an Approval from GDRFA (For Dubai Residents Only)
Dubai Residency Visa holders will have to get an approval from the GDRFA, not ICA.
Follow the steps below to request an approval from GDRFA:
Step 1: Visit the GDRFA website
Submission page: https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Smart_OTCServicesPortal/ReturnPermitService.aspx
Step 2: Search for applicant
Enter in your File Number (printed on your residence visa), Nationality and Year of Birth.
Step 3: Enter travel details
After you enter your details, the system will pull out your basic details. Below this section, you will find another section that asks for your travel details. You will also have to agree to bear the expenses of quarantining in case that you’re affected with COVID-19.
Step 4: Upload documents
Upload scanned copies of your passport, photo, PCR test result, and vaccination card.
Confirm the details and click on Send.
You will be notified by the GDRFA on the provided email on the approval progress.
Note:
- You may apply for the approval as soon as you have booked your flight.
- Keep a copy of the GDRFA approval handy while traveling to UAE.
- The PCR test must be taken within 48 hours of your departure.
- Download the Alhosn app.
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