UAE entry permits now require passport cover page in application process

Applicants seeking entry permits to the UAE are now required to submit a copy of their passport’s external cover page in addition to the usual documents, according to updates shared by immigration service centres.

The new requirement, introduced this month, applies to all nationalities and visa categories. Applicants must now provide the following documents when applying for an entry permit: a clear passport copy, recent passport-sized photograph, confirmed hotel booking, round-trip flight ticket and the external cover page of their passport.

Service centres confirmed that the instruction was issued through official notices from immigration authorities. They also noted that applications cannot be processed without uploading the cover page.

Although no official explanation has been released yet, travel experts believe the change could help reduce errors and confusion regarding applicants’ nationalities. In some cases, nationality is printed in small fonts inside passports, making it difficult to identify clearly. Including the cover page, which usually contains clearer national emblems and country names, is expected to simplify verification.

Authorities have not yet commented publicly on the amendment. Applicants are advised to check directly with the relevant immigration departments for the latest requirements before submitting their applications.