In 2026, the UAE Residence Visa Number plays a bigger role than ever before. The UAE has fully moved to stickerless visas, digital immigration records, and centralized government systems. This means your residence visa number is now the main identity reference across platforms.
Many residents still confuse the residence visa number with the UID or Emirates ID number. This confusion leads to problems with tax filings, visa renewals, bank compliance, and even salary processing. It becomes more critical when applying for a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) UAE, accessing the FTA portal, or holding newer permits like the AI Specialist Visa UAE 2026 or Mission Visa 2026.
What Is a UAE Residence Visa Number?
The UAE Residence Visa Number is the official residence file number issued by UAE immigration authorities after your residence visa is approved. It confirms your legal residency status in the country.
Since the UAE removed physical visa stickers, this number now appears only on your E-Visa PDF document and official immigration portals. It is no longer stamped in your passport.
1. Purpose of the UAE Residence Visa Number
This number acts as your active residency reference. Authorities use it to track your legal stay, visa validity, and immigration history.
2. Why It’s Required for Banks, Employers, and Portals
Banks use it for KYC checks. Employers need it for work permits and payroll registration. Government portals use it to link visas with Emirates ID, tax records, and labor systems.
3. Visa Number vs Entry Permit Number
An entry permit number is temporary and issued before you enter the UAE. The residence visa number is permanent for that visa cycle and issued after medical, Emirates ID, and stamping stages are complete.
UAE Residence Visa Number Format Explained
The residence visa number follows a structured format. Each part has a specific meaning.
1. Emirate Code
The first part shows the issuing emirate.
Common emirate codes include:
- 101 for Abu Dhabi
- 201 for Dubai
- 301 for Sharjah
This helps authorities identify which immigration office issued the visa.
2. Issuance Year
The issuance year reflects when the residence visa was granted. It helps confirm visa age, renewals, and compliance timelines.
3. Unique Serial Number
This is a system-generated number that makes each residence file unique, even within the same emirate and year.
Example (Dubai): 201 / 2026 / 1234567
UAE Residence Visa Number vs UID vs Emirates ID
This is where most confusion happens.
1. What Is a Unified Number (UID)?
The Unified Number (UID) is your lifetime immigration identity in the UAE. It is assigned the first time you enter the country, even on a visit visa. If a person enters the UAE multiple times under different passports or visa types, multiple UID numbers may be created. This requires a UID merge process.
2. Is UID Number the Same as Visa Number?
No, The UID number never changes, while the UAE Residence Visa Number changes every time a new residence visa is issued or renewed. They are linked in immigration systems but serve different purposes.
3. Emirates ID Number Explained
The Emirates ID number is issued by ICA and linked to biometric data. It is used for daily life services like healthcare, banking, and telecom.
| Identifier | Changes Over Time | Main Use |
| UID | No | Immigration history |
| Residence Visa Number | Yes | Legal residency |
| Emirates ID Number | No | Identity verification |
Where to Find Your UAE Residence Visa Number
You can retrieve your visa number using official UAE platforms.
1. E-Visa PDF Document
Your residence visa number appears clearly on the approved E-Visa PDF. Always download and save a copy after visa issuance.
2. ICP Smart Services Portal
You can check your visa number using your passport details on the ICP Smart Services website.
Steps:
- Select visa inquiry
- Enter passport number and nationality
- View visa file details
3. GDRFA Dubai Portal
For Dubai-issued visas, use the GDRFA Dubai portal. It shows the residence file number, UID, and visa validity.
4. ICA Smart App
The ICA Smart App allows mobile access to visa details and shows biometric approval status.
5. UAE Pass Digital ID
UAE Pass pulls verified data directly from government systems. Once logged in, your visa number appears automatically if records are synced.
How to Check UAE Residence Visa Status by Passport
You can check your visa status even without a visa number.
Steps include:
- Enter passport number
- Select nationality
- Submit inquiry
In 2026, delays may occur due to system synchronization issues, especially after renewals or UID merges. Waiting 24 to 72 hours usually resolves this.
Common UAE Residence Visa Number Errors and Fixes
Errors are common but fixable.
1. Visa Number Not Found Error
This usually happens due to delayed system updates or incorrect passport details. Recheck after 48 hours or verify via ICP.
2. Passport and Visa Detail Mismatch
Minor spelling differences or passport renewals can block records. Updating passport data through ICA resolves this.
3. Multiple UID Numbers Error
This occurs when different visa applications create duplicate immigration profiles.
4. UID Merge at Al Awir Immigration
For Dubai residents, UID merging is done at Al Awir Immigration or authorized Amer Centers.
The process includes document verification, a merge request, and a standard service fee. Resolution usually takes 3 to 7 working days.
Why UAE Residence Visa Number Matters for Legal and Tax Use
This section is critical for compliance.
1. Residence Number for FTA Portal
The Federal Tax Authority uses the residence visa number to verify VAT registrations and business ownership records.
2. Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) UAE
The visa number proves legal residence duration. It supports the 183-day rule, entry and exit matching, and residency validation for international tax treaties.
3. Entry and Exit Report Matching
Immigration reports must align with your residence visa number. Any mismatch can delay TRC issuance.
UAE Residence Visa Number in 2026 Special Visa Categories
1. AI Specialist Visa UAE 2026
This visa requires verified STEM qualifications, a salary benchmark, and a unified sponsor code. The residence visa number links AI permits to labor and immigration records.
2. Mission Visa 2026
Short-term mission visas rely on digital tracking. Residence numbers help validate lawful employment periods.
3. Corporate Citizenship Law 2026
Residency records, including visa numbers, help assess long-term eligibility under corporate citizenship rules.
Stickerless Visa Identity and Digital Immigration Records
The UAE no longer issues visa stickers.
Key changes include:
- Digital-only visa records
- Centralized ICA and GDRFA databases
- Biometric-linked verification
Keeping digital copies of your E-Visa PDF is now essential for compliance.
Best Practices to Avoid UAE Visa Number Issues
Follow these simple steps:
- Always download your E-Visa PDF
- Keep passport details consistent
- Use UAE Pass for real-time updates
- Check UID status after every renewal
These steps prevent delays with banks, employers, and government portals.
How Ripple Business Setup Can Help With UAE Residence Visa Matters
Ripple Business Setup supports individuals and businesses with end-to-end UAE residency solutions. Our team helps you verify your UAE Residence Visa Number, resolve UID issues, and ensure your visa records are correctly linked with Emirates ID, ICP, and GDRFA systems. Whether you are facing a visa number not found error, multiple UID numbers, or need your residence details for tax or FTA compliance, Ripple provides clear guidance based on current UAE immigration rules.
For professional assistance, contact Ripple Business Setup at +971 50 593 8101, email info@ripplellc.ae, or WhatsApp +971 4 250 0833.
FAQs
1. How to check residency number?
Use ICP Smart Services, GDRFA Dubai, or the ICA Smart App.
2. How to check UAE residence visa?
Search by passport number on official immigration portals.
3. Where can I find my visa number?
On your E-Visa PDF or government visa inquiry platforms.
4. Is UID number is visa number?
No, UID is permanent. Visa numbers change with each residence.
5. Which is the residence visa number in the UAE?
It is the residence file number issued by ICA or GDRFA.
6. How to get UAE residence visa copy online?
Download it from ICP Smart Services or the GDRFA portal.
Conclusion
The UAE Residence Visa Number is no longer just a reference number. In 2026, it connects your legal status, tax residency, employment, and digital identity across the UAE.
Understanding the difference between your visa number, UID, and Emirates ID helps you avoid serious delays and compliance issues. If your records show errors, duplicate UID numbers, or missing visa details, professional support can save time and prevent future complications.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. UAE immigration rules, visa procedures, and government systems may change without notice. Always confirm details with official UAE authorities or consult a licensed business setup or immigration advisor before taking action.
