A New Step Forward in Ease and Efficiency
The UAE has taken another resident-friendly step with the launch of the UAE Golden Visa return permit. This new initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) allows Golden Visa holders who lose their passports while traveling overseas to return home quickly. The electronic return document can be issued within 30 minutes through MoFA’s website or mobile app, providing a fast and convenient solution for residents abroad.
The UAE Golden Visa return permit is designed especially for residents who lose their passports outside the country. The permit is free, valid for a single entry, and remains usable for seven days from the issue date.
To apply, residents can visit MoFA’s online portal or mobile app using their UAE Pass digital ID. The process requires only a few documents — a lost passport report, Golden Visa details, and a passport-style photograph. Once the information is verified, the permit is issued in just 30 minutes, helping residents return to the UAE quickly and safely.
This service is available exclusively to UAE Golden Visa holders with a valid residence permit and passport. It also covers their dependents under 18 years of age. Spouses and children registered as dependents on the main visa holder’s residency are eligible to use this emergency service.
However, the UAE Golden Visa return permit is strictly for re-entry into the UAE. It cannot be used for travel to other countries or as a substitute for a passport. This ensures the document’s purpose remains focused on helping residents return home easily.
The UAE Golden Visa return permit is part of a larger effort by MoFA to expand consular services for long-term residents. In partnership with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), MoFA unveiled the new service at the GITEX Global 2025 technology summit.
As part of this support package, Golden Visa holders also benefit from a dedicated 24/7 hotline at +971 2 493 1133, along with emergency and crisis assistance abroad. These services include help during evacuation or repatriation and coordination with UAE embassies in other countries.
The UAE introduced the Golden Visa in 2019 as a long-term residence option for investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and outstanding students. It allows residents to live, work, or study in the country without a local sponsor. The visa can be issued for five or ten years and is renewable.
Key benefits include the flexibility to change jobs, start a business, or pursue education without employer restrictions. It also allows holders to sponsor family members, including spouses and children of any age. With the addition of the UAE Golden Visa return permit, the program now offers even greater convenience and security for residents abroad.
Losing a passport while overseas can cause serious delays and stress. The UAE Golden Visa return permit provides a simple and fast solution to this problem. Instead of waiting for consular clearance or temporary travel documents, residents can now re-enter the UAE within minutes of applying online.
MoFA has clarified that the permit can only be used for returning to the UAE. It is not a travel document for transit or travel to other destinations. This clear policy helps maintain security while offering genuine support to affected residents.
Golden Visa holders who travel frequently should keep a few safety practices in mind. Always save digital and physical copies of your passport and visa documents. If your passport is lost or damaged abroad, visit MoFA’s portal or app to apply for the UAE Golden Visa return permit immediately.
In emergencies such as political unrest, natural disasters, or global health crises, residents can contact the 24/7 MoFA hotline for assistance. The ministry’s coordination with UAE embassies ensures that help is available wherever you are.
The UAE Golden Visa return permit is a thoughtful and timely addition to the country’s Golden Visa program. It reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to making life easier for its long-term residents and ensuring they feel supported even when they are abroad.
With this quick 30-minute service, the UAE continues to lead by example in resident care, innovation, and efficiency. For Golden Visa holders, it brings reassurance that no matter where they travel, home is only a few clicks away.
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