UAE Visa With Old Passport Number: Everything You Need To Know

Traveling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a dream for many, but understanding the nuances of visa application processes, especially when using an old passport number, can be confusing. If you have applied for or hold a UAE visa linked to an old passport and are wondering how it will affect your travel or application, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process.

Why is the Passport Number Important?

A passport number is a unique identifier issued to every passport holder, and it serves as an essential part of your travel identity. Visa applications are processed using the information from your passport, including the passport number, personal details, and other identification elements.

If your passport number changes (for example, due to a passport renewal), it’s important to understand how this affects any existing visas, including a UAE visa.

Situations Involving an Old Passport Number

Here are some common situations where the passport number may change:

Passport Expiry: If your passport has expired and you have been issued a new one, the passport number will change, even though your personal information remains the same.
Lost or Stolen Passport: In cases where the passport has been lost or stolen, the new passport issued will have a different number.
Damaged Passport: If your passport is damaged and you apply for a replacement, you will receive a new passport with a different number.

If your UAE visa was issued with your old passport number, you must take specific steps to update your travel documentation.

For more information, you can speak to Happy Face

Applying for a UAE Visa with an Old Passport Number

1. Current Passport Expired or Lost but Visa is Valid

If your UAE visa is still valid but was issued under an old passport that has expired or is lost, you can still travel to the UAE with the following steps:

Carry Both Passports: You must carry both your old and new passports when traveling. The visa is linked to the old passport number, so UAE immigration authorities will need to see both the old passport (where the visa is stamped or issued) and the new passport.
Valid Visa: The visa linked to the old passport number will remain valid until its expiration date, provided there are no changes in your personal details or nationality.

2. Passport Lost with Visa Stamped on It

If your old passport is lost, and the UAE visa is stamped on it, follow these steps:

Report the Loss: First, report the loss to the police or passport issuing authorities in your country. Obtain a police report to provide documentation of the loss.
Request for a New Passport: Apply for a new passport from your country’s passport office or embassy.
Contact UAE Authorities: Reach out to UAE immigration or the embassy to inquire about transferring your visa to your new passport. You will need to provide your visa application details and other relevant information. This may involve paying a small fee.
Request a New Visa Copy: In some cases, the UAE authorities may issue you a copy of the visa, or you may need to apply for a replacement visa (this can vary depending on the type of visa you hold).

For more information, you can speak to Happy Face

3. New Passport Issued Before Visa Application

If you are applying for a UAE visa and your passport has recently been renewed, ensure that you:

Use the New Passport Number: When applying for a UAE visa, always use your current passport number.
No Use of Old Passport: If you received a new passport after your previous one expired or was lost, do not use the old passport number for any future visa applications.

Steps to Update Your UAE Visa Information with a New Passport Number

1. Contact the UAE Embassy or Immigration Office: The first step is to contact the UAE embassy or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) if you are already in the UAE. You need to inform them about your change of passport number and provide the necessary documents.
2. Submit the Required Documents: You will typically need to submit:

A copy of your old passport (if available).

A copy of your new passport.

A copy of the current UAE visa.

A police report (if your passport was lost or stolen).

Any supporting documents showing the change of passport.

Visa Transfer Process: The UAE authorities may need to update their records to reflect your new passport number, and in some cases, they may transfer your visa to the new passport. This process may vary depending on the type of visa you hold (tourist, visit, residency, employment, etc.).
Pay the Visa Transfer Fee: There may be a nominal fee for transferring your visa to the new passport number, especially if you are transferring a residency or long-term visa.

For more information, you can speak to Happy Face

Tips for Traveling with a Visa Linked to an Old Passport Number

Double-Check Visa Validity: Ensure that the visa linked to your old passport is still valid before you travel. If the visa has expired, you will need to apply for a new one.
Carry Both Passports: Always travel with both your old and new passports if your visa is still linked to your old passport number. This is crucial for smooth entry into the UAE.
Inform Your Airline: Inform the airline you are traveling with about your situation, especially if the visa is linked to your old passport number. They can provide guidance and prevent issues during check-in.

For more information, you can speak to Happy Face

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I transfer my UAE visa to a new passport?

Yes, you can transfer your UAE visa to a new passport by contacting UAE immigration authorities or the UAE embassy. The process usually involves submitting documentation such as your old and new passports, the visa, and any supporting evidence (like a police report for lost passports).

2. Do I need to apply for a new visa if I have a new passport?

No, if your UAE visa is still valid, you don’t need to apply for a new visa. However, you must carry both your old and new passports when traveling if the visa is linked to your old passport.

3. What should I do if my passport with the UAE visa is lost?

If your passport with the UAE visa is lost, report the loss to your local authorities and apply for a new passport. After obtaining the new passport, contact UAE immigration or the embassy to transfer the visa or request a new visa copy.

For more information, you can speak to Happy Face

Traveling to the UAE with a visa linked to an old passport number is manageable, but it requires careful attention to ensure smooth entry into the country. Whether your passport has expired, been lost, or has been replaced, you can follow the steps outlined in this guide to update your UAE visa or carry both passports while traveling. With proper preparation and adherence to UAE immigration rules, you can enjoy your trip without complications.