Effective from Sunday November 15th - the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) have made it mandatory to submit original documents for any visa transactions. Photocopies will no longer be accepted.

The new conditions are applicable to all GDRFA (General Directory of Residence and foreign affairs) branches and typing centres across the United Arab Emirates

The Sponsors also have to submit an International Bank Account Number. All the charges, including guarantees, deposits and file opening fees will be handled through the typing centres at the time of the application. This new system is intended to streamline visa processes, minimise the use of paper and reduce customer waiting time at the GDRFA.

The following documents will be required at typing centre for applying for a visa:

• Original Emirates ID and Passport of the Sponsor
• Original Emirates ID and passport of those who are being sponsored (for renewal, residency visa for family and stamping)
• Sponsored person’s coloured photographs taken against white background
• Labour contract and  agreements
• Labour Card/Employment Card
• Salary Letter
• Trade Licence if the sponsor is an Investor or Partner
• Original Tenancy agreement
• Marriage and birth certificate with attestation
• International Bank Account Number of the Sponsor