UAE Visa With BRP (Biometric Residence Permit): What You Need To Know

For those holding a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) from the United Kingdom and planning to visit the United Arab Emirates (UAE), understanding how the BRP affects your visa application is crucial. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about obtaining a UAE visa when you already hold a UK BRP, including eligibility, the visa application process, and key considerations.

What is a BRP?

The Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) is a document issued to non-UK nationals, allowing them to live, work, or study in the United Kingdom for a set period. It contains the holder’s personal details, biometric information (such as fingerprints), and immigration status. The BRP proves that the holder has the legal right to reside in the UK but is not a travel document like a passport.

Can You Travel to the UAE with a BRP?

While a BRP allows you to stay in the UK, it is not a visa for other countries. Therefore, having a BRP does not grant you entry into the UAE, and you will still need to apply for a visa to visit the UAE. However, your BRP can play an essential role in the UAE visa application process because it signifies your long-term residency status in the UK, which may streamline certain visa processes.

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Types of UAE Visas You Can Apply for with a BRP

Even with a BRP, you will need to apply for a separate visa to enter the UAE. Below are the common types of UAE visas you can apply for:

Tourist Visa: This is a short-term visa that allows you to visit the UAE for leisure, sightseeing, or short trips. Tourist visas are typically issued for 30 or 90 days.
Visit Visa: This visa is often used for family visits, business trips, or short-term stays. It can be extended, unlike the tourist visa, depending on the terms of your visit.
Transit Visa: If you are only stopping over in the UAE for less than 96 hours and plan to continue to another destination, a transit visa will be required.
Employment Visa: For those moving to the UAE for work, you will need an employment visa, sponsored by your UAE-based employer.

UAE Visa Eligibility for BRP Holders

If you are a BRP holder from the UK, you are still subject to the same visa requirements as any other national when traveling to the UAE. However, your BRP may help expedite the process under certain conditions. Below is an overview of visa eligibility:

Nationality: Your nationality plays a significant role in determining whether you are eligible for a visa on arrival or need to apply for a visa before traveling. For example, citizens of certain countries can enter the UAE without a visa or obtain one on arrival, but this varies based on nationality.
Visa on Arrival: Some nationalities are eligible for visa-on-arrival entry into the UAE for short visits. However, this does not apply to all, and holding a BRP alone does not grant visa-on-arrival status. You must check the specific visa requirements for your nationality.
Visa Exemptions: Certain nationalities are exempt from needing a visa to enter the UAE, and some might be granted a visa-free period. The BRP itself does not exempt you from applying for a UAE visa unless your nationality qualifies.

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Applying for a UAE Visa with a BRP

Here are the steps to follow when applying for a UAE visa as a BRP holder:

1. Determine Visa Type

Decide which type of UAE visa you need based on the purpose of your visit—tourism, business, employment, or family visit.

2. Check Visa Requirements for Your Nationality

Before applying, check if your nationality qualifies for a visa on arrival or if you need to apply beforehand. Your BRP does not automatically allow you visa-free entry to the UAE.

3. Apply for the Visa

You can apply for a UAE visa through several channels, depending on your situation:

Online: UAE visas can be applied for online via platforms like GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) for Dubai or ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) for other emirates.
Travel Agencies: Many travel agencies and airlines such as Emirates or Etihad Airways offer visa services if you are flying with them.
UAE Embassy: You can also apply for a UAE visa through the UAE embassy in the UK.
Visa Service Providers: Numerous service providers specialize in assisting with UAE visa applications, ensuring you meet the necessary requirements and documentation.

4. Required Documents

Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP): Although the BRP is not mandatory for visa application, including it may support your case, especially for residency status confirmation.
Photographs: Passport-size photographs meeting UAE visa standards.
Flight Itinerary: Proof of return or onward travel.
Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking or a letter of invitation from a family member/friend residing in the UAE.
Proof of Funds: Evidence of sufficient financial means to cover your stay in the UAE.

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Does BRP Impact the Processing Time?

While a BRP does not directly affect the processing time for a UAE visa, it can demonstrate that you are legally residing in the UK, which may simplify certain documentation processes. Additionally, if you have a valid visa for a country like the US, UK, or Schengen Area, you may be eligible for certain visa facilitations, such as easier approval for tourist visas.

Important Considerations for UAE Visa Holders with a BRP

1. Carry Both BRP and Passport

When traveling to the UAE, always carry both your passport and your BRP. The BRP serves as proof of your legal residency in the UK and may be required at the UK border when returning.

2. Visa Validity

Ensure your UAE visa is valid for the entire duration of your stay. Overstaying your visa can result in penalties, including fines and future entry bans.

3. Renewing BRP While in the UAE

If your BRP is nearing expiration while you are traveling in the UAE, ensure you have made arrangements for renewal or reentry to the UK. Returning to the UK with an expired BRP can complicate your reentry, even if your visa for the UAE is valid.

4. Employment in the UAE

If you intend to work in the UAE, holding a BRP is irrelevant for UAE employment purposes. You must still apply for a UAE employment visa and ensure your employer arranges the necessary paperwork.

UAE Visa with BRP: FAQ

1. Does having a BRP give me an advantage when applying for a UAE visa?

While the BRP does not offer visa-free entry or any specific privileges, it may simplify the documentation process since it demonstrates that you are a legal resident of the UK.

2. Can I apply for a UAE visa online as a BRP holder?

Yes, you can apply online through various platforms such as the UAE government websites or airline visa services. Your BRP can be an additional piece of documentation in your visa application.

3. Do I need to show my BRP when entering the UAE?

The UAE does not require you to present your BRP at immigration. However, you will need it when reentering the UK to prove your legal residency status.

For more information, you can speak to Happy Face

Having a UK Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) does not exempt you from needing a visa to enter the UAE. As a BRP holder, you still need to apply for a UAE visa based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. By following the proper procedures, gathering the required documents, and understanding how the visa application process works with your BRP, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to the UAE.