UAE Allows Residents with Expired Residency Visas to Return Without New Entry Permit
UAE residents currently outside the country with expired visas under their residency permits may now have a temporary option to return, following an update from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
The announcement introduces a temporary measure allowing eligible residents to return to the UAE without the need to apply for a new entry permit.
This decision comes after recent regional travel disruptions, including airspace closures and flight suspensions, which prevented some residents from travelling back to the UAE before their visas expired.
Key details
- Effective period: 28 February 2026 to 31 March 2026
- Who it applies to: UAE residents currently outside the country whose residence visas expired during this period
- Entry permit requirement: Eligible residents may return without applying for a new entry permit
Authorities are expected to provide further clarification regarding cases where residents have remained outside the UAE for more than 180 days, as well as the validity of entry permits already issued to applicants abroad.
How Trinity Group Services Can Help
At Trinity Group, we continue to monitor official immigration updates and provide visa and residency guidance to our clients.
If you are an existing Trinity Group client and believe this update may apply to your situation, our team can assist in reviewing your circumstances and advising on the appropriate next steps.