Federal Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) confirmed that new updates to the Smart Services system, effective 1 February 2023, include disallowing residence visa renewal requests if they are valid for more than 6 months.
ICP added that the new update includes the provision of several services to individual accounts through ICP’s Smart Channels, including services to cancel and amend visa data in the accounts of GCC nationals who do not have UAE identity registration, provided in visa holder accounts Services to print visa and residency details, and exemption from Emirates ID (fingerprint and ICAO) procedures for personal accounts on electronic channels.
The ICP has reduced the steps associated with the issuance and renewal process of the right of residence together with the identity card in a unified form, including the services of issuing and renewing the right of residence and the identity card in one application, instead of the previous separate application.
Through its website and the UAEICP Smart App, ICP can electronically renew status-related residency in 4 steps, starting with registration and account creation, submitting a visa permit renewal application, paying the prescribed fee, and finally issuing the visa and receiving the inclusive UAE ID for visa data.
The ICP clarified that when submitting a request to renew a visa permit, the sponsored person’s passport must be provided with a validity of not less than 6 months.
According to the ICP, the requirements for accessing services, including medical exams and health insurance, must be completed within set deadlines in order for the application not to be cancelled.