Immigration Service UAE: GDRFA / ICP
Explore the roles of GDRFA and ICP in UAE immigration, including visa issuance, Emirates ID registration, and more. Learn how to apply for a UAE residence visa.
Immigration Authority of the UAE (GDRFA / ICP)
GDRFA and ICP are government bodies that regulate entry, exit, residence, and visa status of foreign nationals in the UAE.
Main Functions
- Issuance and renewal of all types of visas (residency, Golden Visa, employment, sponsorship).
- Emirates ID registration.
- Control of entry/exit and immigration status.
- Approval of family, employee, and partner sponsorships.
- Issuance of visas for domestic workers.
- Visas for students, retirees, investors, freelancers.
- Handling bans, deportations, and restrictions.
- Services provided through licensed centres: AMER, ICA, TASHEEL.
Structure and Jurisdictions
| Level | Authority | Jurisdiction | Features |
| Federal | ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) | All emirates except Dubai | Registers, e-channels, passport control |
| Regional | GDRFA (e.g., GDRFA-Dubai) | Within the emirate only | Sponsor registration, quotas, AMER services |
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Book a consultationHowTo: How to Get a UAE Residence Visa
- Register a sponsor company (obtain Establishment Card, activate E-Channel).
- Arrange medical test and health insurance.
- Submit the application via AMER (Dubai) or ICP (other emirates).
- Provide documents: passport, Emirates ID, photo, employment contract (if required).
- Wait for approval and visa stamping in the passport.
- Register Emirates ID and set up WPS (if hiring employees).
What MIRAD Does
- Prepare documents for visa issuance, renewal, and cancellation.
- Assist with Emirates ID, medical tests, and insurance.
- Handle Establishment Card, e-channel, and quotas.
- Support Golden Visa, Green Visa, Family Visa, Work Visa.
- Resolve overstay, deportation, and ban issues.
- Consult on visa status, citizenship, and relocation.
Why It Matters
✔️ The UAE visa system is strictly regulated: mistakes can lead to fines or visa cancellation.
✔️ MIRAD works directly with ICP, GDRFA, and AMER, ensuring fast and accurate processing.
FAQ: UAE Immigration System
❓ What is the difference between ICP and GDRFA?
✅ ICP operates at the federal level, while GDRFA regulates migration within a specific emirate (e.g., Dubai).
❓ Is Emirates ID required for all visas?
✅ Yes, Emirates ID is mandatory for all residency categories.
❓ How long does it take to issue a visa?
⏳ Usually 5–15 business days, depending on visa type.
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