Calen Voss 
21.08.2025 How to apply for a visit visa through ICP UAE is one of the most common searches for people planning to visit the Emirates or bring loved ones over. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has made the process straightforward—whether you’re using the ICP website or the official mobile app. You may apply for an ICP visit visa online and keep track of its progress in real time using the ICP visit visa status check function. All you need are a few papers and the necessary procedures. This tutorial will show you precisely how to apply, what documents you need to get ready, how much it costs, and how to prevent common errors so that your visit visa is accepted quickly.
What Is ICP and Why Use It for Visit Visas?
ICP stands for the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security, the UAE government body responsible for issuing entry permits, visit visas (outside of Dubai), Emirates ID cards, and other services through its ICP Smart Services platform—online or via app.
For expats, tourists, or residents sponsoring visitors, ICP offers a one-stop-shop: simplified paperwork, digitized applications, and real-time updates. You can apply online for single or multiple-entry visit visas, including 30‑day or 90‑day options, right from your home—no need to visit an office.
Why should you believe ICP? Since it's the official site, your application is safe, clear, and accepted by the law. The interface is unified across emirates (excluding Dubai's GDRFA-managed visas), which means consistency and clarity—especially critical if you're sponsoring family or friends.
ICP Visit Visa Application Process Step by Step
The ICP system lets you arrange a UAE visit visa without stepping into an office. Whether you prefer working on a computer or using your phone, the process follows the same logic: collect your documents, choose the visa type, submit your form, pay online, and keep an eye on your ICP visit visa status. Below is how each method works in practice.
How to Apply Visit Visa Through ICP Website
If you like working on a bigger screen, the website is the straightforward option. First, open the ICP Smart Services portal and sign in—using UAE Pass makes it faster. From the services menu, pick the visit visa that fits your purpose. Remember to enter your data precisely as they appear on your passport. Don't forget to include your sponsor's information. Don't forget to send in the necessary paperwork. This should include a copy of your passport, a picture of yourself, and proof of your link (if it's a family visit). Make sure the form is right before sending it through the safe way. Don't forget to write down your application number; you'll need it to track your progress.
How to Apply Visit Visa Through ICP App
The app works almost identically but is built for convenience on the go. Download it from your phone’s app store and sign in with UAE Pass. Select the visit visa service, complete the form, and attach your documents—here you can simply snap photos if you don’t have scanned files ready. Pay through the app’s payment system, and you’ll start receiving notifications each time your application moves forward. Many people prefer this method because the updates arrive instantly and are easy to follow.
ICP Visit Visa Requirements and Fees
Before you start filling out forms, it’s worth gathering everything you’ll need so the application goes through without a hitch. The ICP wants a valid passport that is at least six months old, a current passport-sized picture, and sometimes confirmation that you are related to the person who invited you. People who live in the UAE and are sponsors may additionally be required to provide a copy of their Emirates ID and residency visa page.
Fees depend on the visa type and duration. A short-term visit visa, such as the 30-day single entry, generally costs less than a 90-day option. You’ll also see small extra charges for application handling and e-services. Payments are made online, and once they go through, the system issues a receipt with your reference number. Keeping that number safe makes it much easier to follow your application status later. Processing usually takes a couple of days, but can be faster if all documents meet the requirements the first time around.
How to Check ICP Visit Visa Status Online
After you’ve submitted your application, you can follow its progress without stepping into an office. ICP gives you two simple ways to see where things stand: through its website or the mobile app.
If you prefer a desktop, go to the ICP Smart Services site, sign in, and look for the section that lets you track applications. Type in your reference number—this is the one on your payment receipt—and confirm any other details the system asks for. The page will then show whether your application is still being reviewed, already approved, or requires extra information.
The process seems even more straightforward on the mobile app. To track your visa, open it and go to "My Requests" or the log-in page. The app will let you know whenever your state changes and show it to you right away. If you check back often, you'll be ready to answer right away if the officials ask for more papers or an explanation. This helps keep things from taking too long.
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Common Issues and Tips for a Smooth Visit Visa Application
The ICP method works well, but if you mess up, it won't let you off the hook. What's the most common issue? Bad pictures of documents. A passport picture that is fuzzy or has parts cut off will almost always be sent back. Spelling is something else that gets people stuck. The application may be held up if your name, date of birth, or passport number does not match exactly, letter for letter.
Before you hit submit, zoom in on every file you upload. Check the expiry date on your passport, and make sure your sponsor’s Emirates ID is valid. If you have time, apply at least a couple of weeks before you travel. That way, you may deliver them without hurrying if ICP requests for further documentation.
Little things might be the difference between getting your clearance right away and having to wait days.
Conclusion
Applying for a visit visa through the ICP is mostly about being prepared. If your documents are complete, your details are correct, and you follow the process step by step, approval is usually quick. Both the website and the app make it possible to handle everything without visiting an office. Take your time with the application, check for updates, and sort out any requests from ICP right away. That’s the simplest way to get your visa issued without stress.
Lately, some visit visa holders have been allowed to extend their stay without leaving the country. It doesn’t apply to every visa type, and the conditions can change quickly. The safest approach is to check the ICP site or speak directly with an immigration office before making plans.
There’s no single price. A 30-day visa is cheaper than a 90-day one, and multiple-entry options cost more than single-entry. You’ll also see small extra charges for processing. In the end, the total depends on the visa you choose and how you apply.
