From September 2025, travellers applying for UAE entry permits or visas must submit a copy of their passport’s external cover page as part of the application process. The new requirement applies to all nationalities and visa types, according to notifications received by Amer Centres and travel agents.
The passport external cover page is the front page of a passport that displays the issuing authority, emblem, and national markings. Applicants must now upload this page along with the standard bio-data page, which contains personal details and the photograph.
Additional Required Documents
In addition to the external cover and bio-data pages, applicants must continue to provide:
- A clear passport-size photograph
- Confirmed hotel booking in the UAE
- A round-trip flight ticket
Purpose of the New Requirement
UAE immigration authorities have introduced this rule to improve security verification and reduce delays caused by errors in applications. Travel consultants note that the cover page helps authorities quickly confirm the issuing country, especially for passports where the nationality is less prominent on the bio-data page.
Implementation
The new rule is effective immediately, and applications without the external cover page risk being delayed or rejected. Both the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) across the UAE are enforcing this regulation.
Travellers are advised to:
- Upload both the cover page and bio-data page when applying for any UAE visa.
- Ensure scanned copies or photos are clear and show the full page.
- Confirm requirements with Amer Centres, visa agencies, or directly with ICP/GDRFA before submission.
Failure to comply with the updated requirement may result in delays or rejection of the visa application.
