UAE Tightens Visa Rules: Passport Cover Page Now Mandatory

UAE Tightens Visa Rules: Passport Cover Page Now Mandatory (Image: Canva)

The United Arab Emirates has also come up with a new documentation requirement for visa applicants. Every individual seeking an entry permit, be it in the form of tourism, business or transit, is now required to attach a clear copy of the outer cover page of their passport. This is mandatory for all nationalities and visa types, so it is an obligatory requirement during the application process.

Up to date, visa applications would normally need only the bio-data page of the passport and photos, tickets, and accommodation information. Under the new change, the applicants are also required to include the front cover of the passport. Without this page, any application will be deemed incomplete and may be postponed or rejected.

The reform is aimed at simplifying the nationality and authenticity of documents. Authorities think that the name and the logo of the issuing state on the cover page of the passport are used to minimise erroneous, misidentification, and fraud cases. It can also be used to cross-check with international databases faster, reducing the processing time, as soon as all the documents are properly submitted.

The travellers who plan to visit the UAE are expected to scan the cover and bio-data pages of their passports and apply for them before they visit. Electronic versions must be of a high resolution that displays all text and symbols. Unfinished scans or blurred pictures might not be tolerated.

Visa agents recommend that applicants go through revised checklists before handing in forms to prevent unwarranted delays. By doing these documents ahead of time, this may save a lot of hassle, particularly during the peak seasons when the visa centres are very busy doing huge amounts of work.

This new need is an indicator of the shift of the UAE towards closer scrutiny of identity and standardisation of procedures throughout its visa systems. To travellers, it reminds them of the need to be aware of changing entry regulations to have a tension-free vacation.