UAE visa rule: Passport cover page now mandatory

The United Arab Emirates has introduced a new requirement for all visa applicants, making it mandatory to submit the passport’s external cover page along with the standard bio-data page and other supporting documents.

The rule applies to all nationalities and visa categories, including tourist, visit, and multiple-entry permits. Authorities have confirmed that applications missing the cover page will now be considered incomplete and may face delays or rejection.

The updated checklist for UAE visas includes the passport’s bio-data page, cover page, recent photographs, confirmed return flight tickets, hotel booking confirmations, and travel insurance where applicable.

Industry experts suggest the new measure is aimed at reducing documentation errors and ensuring quicker verification of applicants’ nationality and passport details. Immigration centres and travel agencies have already received instructions to enforce the change immediately.

Travellers are advised to prepare high-quality scans of both the passport bio-data and cover pages before submitting their visa applications to avoid disruptions to their travel plans.