Dubai visit visa refund: Step-by-step guide to claim your security deposit
Key eligibility rules for refund applicants explained
DUBAI – If you’ve sponsored a family member or friend on a visit visa to Dubai, you might have noticed a refundable security deposit included in the application cost. Once the visitor exits the UAE or changes their visa status, you are eligible to claim this amount back – but you must apply within a specific time limit.
For Dubai residents, the refund is processed by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD).
Here’s how to check your eligibility, required documents, and the full process to claim your refund.
Key eligibility rules for refund applicants
The visit visa security deposit refund can be requested only after the visitor has left the UAE or officially switched to another visa type.
Refund requests must be made within 30 days of the visitor’s departure. Any claims made after this period may not be accepted.
You can apply for the refund either online through the GDRFAD website or by visiting an Amer Centre in Dubai.
Refund amount and associated fees
According to GDRFAD, the applicable charges are:
- Financial security deposit: Dh1,000
- Security deposit service fee: Dh20
- Collection and reimbursement fee: Dh40
Once approved, the refund is typically credited to your bank account within two working days.
Documents needed to process your refund
To apply successfully, you’ll need:
- Proof of exit such as a passport exit stamp (photo or scan) or a travel report from GDRFAD showing entry and exit dates.
- Copy of the visitor’s passport and visit visa.
- Original payment receipt of the security deposit.
In some cases, proof of exit may not be required if the immigration system automatically updates the visitor’s status after departure.
How to submit your refund request online
- Visit the GDRFAD website and log in using your UAE Pass.
- Navigate to ‘Existing Applications and Dependents’.
- Enter the application or transaction number along with visa validity dates.
- Locate the relevant visa and select ‘Refund’.
- Review details, confirm the refund method, and click ‘Process Refund’.
After submission, you’ll receive a tracking number to monitor your application.
Additional support and contacts
For assistance, you can reach GDRFA-Dubai on 800 5111 or contact the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) on 600 522222. Refunds for rejected or travel agent-processed visas must be claimed through the same portal or agency that handled the application.