The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship confirmed that it reviews all requests for return of residents submitted to it through its smart channels, noting that it gives priority to requests for residents who have first-degree relatives only.
This came in response to inquiries received by the authority through its accounts on social media, about the reasons for the delay in deciding requests for returns submitted by residents located in multiple countries, and rejected some of the requests despite their submission more than once.
The Authority requires individuals when applying for a return permit from abroad, to include documents and documents, among them, to prove the relationship of a relative of one of the individuals within the country (optional), and a copy of the residence and passport (compulsory).
In response to questions raised about the revocation of the return permit, after updating previous cabinet decisions regarding the extension of residencies, entry permits and ID cards, until next December, and the granting of a deadline for residents to renew their residency and expired identity cards, the authority confirmed that the return permit is still valid and a condition for entry into the state.
The authority stated that residents before abroad must obtain an entry permit through the authority's smart services system, in addition to conducting a “Covid-19” examination through accredited centers in some countries, and the result is negative so that they can return.
On the other hand, residents noted quickly their approval of their requests to return to the country, after the resumption of air traffic between the Emirates and their countries early this month, which contributed to their reunification with their families inside the country, after about three months due to the suspension of international air traffic.
The Authority has allocated, through its smart services website, a service for residents who are outside the state, who have valid residency permits, which allows them to issue permits to enter the UAE and facilitate their return in emergency situations and approval of requests depends on the current conditions, and this permit authorizes its holder to enter the country within 21 days of Approval date, with https: // smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/ Smart_OTCServicesPortal / ReturnPermitServiceForm designated. aspx to submit requests for entry permits for the Dubai residence campaign.
The authority confirmed that permits are issued gradually within controls, in light of the current health conditions, and in order to preserve the safety of residents wishing to return to the state, pointing out that the request is canceled if it is returned three times because of deficiencies in the data or failure to complete the required documents, bearing in mind that Rules and regulations are subject to change without notice.
The authority warned auditors not to reserve or buy travel or travel tickets before agreeing to the request to enter the country, explaining that reviewing the application may require some time, and after obtaining approval, individuals can book travel tickets according to their actual travel date, as the dates entered into the request are considered default .
The Authority called on dealers to ensure the validity of the passport information in the application, as the passport itself must be used to book the travel ticket and come to the country, and in the event of a difference in the passport data, a new entry permit must be requested.
Allowing residents of more than 6 months to return
The spokesman for the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Brigadier General Khamis Al-Kaabi, confirmed that residents whose expired residency has been outside the country for more than six months are allowed, due to the suspension of international air traffic and the precautionary measures applied due to the Corona pandemic, to return to the country according to the established procedures.
Al-Kaabi indicated that they have one month before their arrival in the country, to amend their status, renew their residency, and the expired ID card.