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Home Services UAE Immigration Authority: GDRFA & ICP Services

Immigration Authority of the UAE (GDRFA / ICP)

GDRFA and ICP are government bodies that regulate entry, exit, residence, and visa status of foreign nationals in the UAE.

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Main Functions

  1. Issuance and renewal of all types of visas (residency, Golden Visa, employment, sponsorship).
  2. Emirates ID registration.
  3. Control of entry/exit and immigration status.
  4. Approval of family, employee, and partner sponsorships.
  5. Issuance of visas for domestic workers.
  6. Visas for students, retirees, investors, freelancers.
  7. Handling bans, deportations, and restrictions.
  8. Services provided through licensed centers: AMER, ICA, TASHEEL.

Structure and Jurisdictions

LevelAuthorityJurisdictionFeatures
FederalICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security)All emirates except DubaiRegisters, e-channels, passport control
RegionalGDRFA (e.g., GDRFA-Dubai)Within the emirate onlySponsor registration, quotas, AMER services
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HowTo: How to Get a UAE Residence Visa

  1. Register a sponsor company (obtain Establishment Card, activate E-Channel).
  2. Arrange medical test and health insurance.
  3. Submit the application via AMER (Dubai) or ICP (other emirates).
  4. Provide documents: passport, Emirates ID, photo, employment contract (if required).
  5. Wait for approval and visa stamping in the passport.
  6. Register Emirates ID and set up WPS (if hiring employees).

What MIRAD Does

  • Prepare documents for visa issuance, renewal, and cancellation.
  • Assist with Emirates ID, medical tests, and insurance.
  • Handle Establishment Card, e-channel, and quotas.
  • Support Golden Visa, Green Visa, Family Visa, Work Visa.
  • Resolve overstay, deportation, and ban issues.
  • Consult on visa status, citizenship, and relocation.

Why It Matters

✔️ The UAE visa system is strictly regulated: mistakes can lead to fines or visa cancellation.
✔️ MIRAD works directly with ICP, GDRFA, and AMER, ensuring fast and accurate processing.

FAQ: UAE Immigration System

❓ What is the difference between ICP and GDRFA?
✅ ICP operates at the federal level, while GDRFA regulates migration within a specific emirate (e.g., Dubai).

❓ Is Emirates ID required for all visas?
✅ Yes, Emirates ID is mandatory for all residency categories.

❓ How long does it take to issue a visa?
⏳ Usually 5–15 business days, depending on visa type.

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