The Ministry of Interior launched “E-channels”, a new system of smart services that lets nationals and residents apply for entry permits and residency visas within 10 minutes
People don’t need to physically visit different visa centres in the country and can instead register on the E-Channels website right from the comfort of their homes, and select the services they need
The e-service is a tie up between the Ministry of Interior and Emirates Technology Solutions, to help GCC citizens and residents get visas without having to visit GDRFA centres
The system has an automated payment facility through the payment gateway Amwal and linked to the external partners of the ministry who provide the services
The Ministry of Interior’s primary focus is on ensuring security for citizens and expatriates living in UAE
People can complete their entry and residency permit transactions offline through Smart Gate for Naturalisation, Residency and Ports Services, or visit typing centres registered with the Smart Gate system for the services of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners’ Affairs
A UAE residence visa can be issued only if the applicant has a sponsor who is a UAE national or resident
In UAE, one can get residency visa for immediate family members like spouse, children, parents and parents-in-law, as well as employment visas and visas for domestic labourers in UAE
To keep a UAE residence visa active, the visa holder must enter the country at least once every six months
