Golden Visa holders can now request an electronic return permit through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with processing taking around 30 minutes and no cost to the applicant.
This permit is only for a single entry back into the UAE and cannot be used to travel onwards to other countries. It is intended to help residents re-enter the country safely and continue their residency procedures once they arrive.
Who Can Use the New Permit?
The service is available for:
- Golden Visa holders currently outside the UAE.
- The service has been extended to spouses and children, if they are registered as dependents under a valid residency permit.
This ensures that families who rely on a primary residence sponsor are covered in urgent travel situations.
What the Service Covers
The new support framework for Golden Visa holders includes:
- Return permit issuance for lost or damaged passports.
- 24/7 dedicated hotline: +971 2493 1133.
- Emergency and crisis help coordinated with UAE embassies and consulates abroad.
- Repatriation and burial assistance in the event of death abroad, ensuring smooth coordination with health and official authorities.
Golden Visa holders are also included in the UAE's emergency and evacuation plans during crises, natural disasters, or conflict situations overseas.
Part of a Larger Improvement to Consular Services
The return permit initiative was developed in partnership with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, forming part of a broader upgrade to consular services for Golden Visa residents.
The overall goal is to simplify procedures, reduce stress during unexpected travel issues, and reinforce the UAE's support system for long-term residents who contribute to the country's growth.
I'm dealing with a damaged passport while stuck abroad and really needed to find a solution, so it's a relief to see that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can issue a return permit in about 30 minutes. As a British expat living in the UAE, I’m just trying to figure out the next steps, so does anyone know if this return permit is automatically linked to my existing residency record, or will I need to present physical copies of my documents at the embassy to finalize the entry?