Passport External Cover Page Requirements

15 October 2025 – Effective 22 September 2025, the United Arab Emirates has introduced a new requirement for visa applications, covering both visit and work permits. Applicants must now include a copy of the external cover page of their passport, which displays the issuing country's name, national emblem, or insignia, along with a solid background color, in addition to the bio-data page. This initiative aims to enhance document verification by helping authorities efficiently confirm the passport’s authenticity and the country of issuance.

Deloitte’s view

Moving forward, employers and employees should incorporate this new requirement into their application processes to avoid potential delays or rejections from the immigration authorities. By ensuring the inclusion of the passport's external cover page in visa applications, clients can optimize their preparation and submission procedures.

Notice

The above is only a brief summary of the current update, is valid at the time of circulation and is based only on information currently available in the public domain which is subject to change. This alert has been written in general terms and does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by Deloitte and therefore cannot be relied on to cover specific situations; application of the principles set out will depend upon the particular circumstances involved and we highly recommend that you obtain professional advice before acting or refraining from acting on any of the contents of this publication. Deloitte accepts no duty of care or liability for any loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in this publication.

Deloitte and Touche Middle East would be pleased to advise readers on how to apply the principles set out in this publication to their specific circumstances. Deloitte accepts no duty of care or liability for any loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in this publication.

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Contacts

Our immigration experts listed below would be happy to discuss the above matters in more detail or support you through a further discussion on your specific requirements.