UAE Visa File Number: Location, Format, and Uses

Jun 23, 2026

If you are a tourist, a job seeker, or a foreign traveller in the UAE, you may be asked to provide your UAE visa number. However, many people do not know where to find it or what it looks like. You may need it while opening a bank account or linking your Emirates ID.

Many people also search for questions like "What is a UID Number in UAE Visa?” This guide explains the UAE visa number, UID Number, their differences, where to find them, and how to use them.

What Is a UAE Visa Number?

The UAE Visa File Number is basically a 7-9-digit number for every permit or residency visa that is issued by the government of the UAE. The number generally connects your physical passport to the Electronic Immigration system. It also tracks the entry permit or the status of residence in the country.;

What Is a UID Number in UAE?

The UAE UID Number, also known as the UAE Visa File Number, is a unique identification number assigned to every residence or entry visa issued by the government of the UAE. It helps the UAE immigration system identify and track your visa record linked to your passport. It is used to verify your entry permit, residence status, and other immigration records in the UAE.

Difference Between UAE Visa Number and UID Number

Many applicants and travellers are confused about the difference between the UAE Visa Number and UID Number, which can lead to issues during visa renewals and other immigration-related processes. Here is a simple comparison between the two numbers:

Features UID Number UAE Visa File Number 
Linked to Same for all visas and Emirates ID Different for different visas
Pattern Single Number 201/2026/1234567
Validity Permanent for Life New for every new visa
Uses Emirates ID, Residency and all govt Services of the UAE Tracking and verification of the Visa

Where Can You Find Your UAE Visa Number?

Many applicants want to know where they can find their UAE Visa Number, especially when ot is required for verification, banking or immigration purposes. You can find your visa number in three different ways, depending on how your visa was issued.

1. Passport (Physical Visa Stamp or Sticker)

  • If your visa was issued as a physical visa, the UAE Visa Number Location is the stamp or sticker inside your passport, usually near your personal details.
  • On the tourist visa, it usually appears in a format similar to 201/2026/1234567
  • On a residence visa, it is generally printed near the permit or visa details.

2. E-Visa PDF: Most UAE visas are now issued digitally. If you have an e-Visa, follow these steps to find your UAE visa number:

  • Open the e-Visa PDF.
  • Look for the “Visa Number” or “File Number” field near the top of the document.
  • It usually appears in a format similar to 201/2026/1234567.

3. GDRFA or ICA Portal: If you can not find your UAE Visa Number using the first two methods, you can visit the official GDRFA or ICA Portal and search using your passport number.

How to Find the UAE Visa Number in Emirates ID?

The UAE Visa Number is not printed on the Emirates ID. To find it, visit the official GDRFA or ICA portal using your passport number, or check your visa sticker or e-Visa document.

Where Can You Find Your UID Number?

You can find your UID Number UAE on your residence visa or entry permit, or by visiting the official ICP or GDRFA website. The UID number is usually printed at the top of your residence visa sticker and may also appear on your entry permit or other immigration documents. You can also retrieve your UID through the official ICP or GDRFA portal by entering your passport details. You can also use the UAE ICP app to view your UID Number and other visa details.

UAE Visa Number Example

If you are looking for a UAE Visa Number Example, it is usually printed on your passport visa sticker or eVisa document. A typical visa file number follows a format similar to 201/2026/1234567. The official breakdown of the format is:

Emirates Code:

  • 101: Abu Dhabi
  • 201: Dubai
  • 301: Sharjah

Issue Year: The year in which the visa was issued.

Serial Number: A unique identifier of 7-digits.

UAE UID Number Example

The UAE UID Number is a unique identification number assigned to every individual who enters or resides in the UAE. It remains linked to your Emirates records even if your visa is renewed or changed. In many cases, the UID number begins with the digits that indicate the issuing emirate. For example, 201 is commonly associated with Dubai.

Uses of UAE Visa Number

The UAE Visa Number is required for several immigration and verification purposes in the UAE, including:

  • You can use your UAE Visa Number on the ICP or GDRFA portal to identify the UAE Visa Status Check and expiry dates.
  • Airlines may require this number during check-in to verify your eligibility to enter the UAE.
  • It is also required while applying for or reviewing your Emirates ID.
  • Also required to open savings or salary accounts in the UAE by the Banks.

How to Check UAE Visa Number by Passport Number

If you want to check your UAE visa number using your passport number, follow these simple steps:

  • Visit the official GDRFA / ICP website.
  • Select “Visa Inquiry Services” and then choose “Unified Enquiry Number”
  • Enter your passport number, nationality and date of birth.
  • Click submit.
  • Your UAE Visa Number (Visa File Number) and current visa status will be displayed on the screen.

FAQs About UAE Visa File Number: Location, Format, and Uses Visa

No. The UAE visa number identifies a specific visa, while the UID number is a permanent identification number assigned by the UAE immigration.

You can find your UAE visa number on the visa sticker, residence visa or eVisa document.

The UID number is a permanent identification number assigned by the UAE immigration to every visitor or resident.

Yes, a new visa number may be issued when your visa is renewed or replaced.

No, every UAE Visa Number is unique.

A visa number follows a format similar to 201/2026/1234567, which includes the Emirates code, issue year and a unique serial number.

Yes, the visa number is printed on the eVisa document, usually under the visa number or file number section.

Yes, the UAE visa number is required during the Emirates ID application process to verify your visa and residency details.

Yes, you can check your visa status and details through the official ICP or GDRFA portal using your visa number or passport details.

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