Visa Renewal Dubai: No Renewal Without Payment Rule

In a major policy shift affecting thousands of expatriates, including Indians and Pakistanis living in Dubai, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has announced a new requirement linking visa renewal and related services to the payment of outstanding traffic fines.

Under the new system—currently being piloted—residents applying for visa renewal, cancellation, or status changes must first settle any unpaid traffic fines. This decision aims to promote road safety and ensure legal compliance by holding residents accountable for traffic violations.

Automatic Fine Check Integrated Into Visa Process

When residents submit applications for visa services, the system will automatically check for any unpaid traffic violations associated with their driving license or vehicle. If any fines are found, the application process will be halted until those dues are cleared.

Lt. Gen. Mohammed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA Dubai, emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic laws and ensuring that violations are resolved in a timely manner. “There are residents who have accumulated thousands of dirhams in fines and continue to ignore them,” he said. “This policy ensures fairness and legal compliance across the board.”

Flexible Payment Options Introduced

To make compliance easier, Dubai authorities have enabled interest-free instalment plans for traffic fines through the Dubai Police app, website, and smart police stations. Residents can choose to pay fines in three, six, or twelve-month instalments via credit cards, or opt for 24-month plans through direct debit arrangements.

Who Is Affected?

This rule applies to all Dubai residents, regardless of nationality, and includes those looking to renew, cancel, or transfer their residence visas. Even those planning to leave the country must clear their traffic fines before cancelling their visas.

While the system is currently in a pilot phase and is not yet mandatory at all GDRFA centers—such as Dubai International Airport—the full implementation is expected in the coming months.

What Residents Should Do

Residents are advised to check their traffic fine status in advance and settle any dues through authorized Dubai Police channels. GDRFA has made available an online fine inquiry service for ease of access and transparency.

This move aligns with Dubai’s broader vision of enhancing public safety, ensuring legal accountability, and streamlining residency procedures through technology-driven governance