Key Highlights

• No visa transfer needed – Update passport details in the ICP system; your Golden Visa remains valid throughout.
• Processing: 3-7 days online or instant at the airport—multiple application methods.
• Emirates ID may not need updating – Simple passport renewals often don’t require a new Emirates ID since the 2022 digital system. 

Picture this: You’re holding your brand-new passport, fresh with crisp pages and that new-document smell. But there’s a nagging question keeping you up at night—what happens to your UAE Golden Visa that’s stamped in your old passport?

You’re not alone in this worry. With over 158,000 Golden Visas issued in 2023 alone, thousands of visa holders face this exact situation every year when their passports expire, get lost, or they change nationality. 

The confusion is real, and the stakes feel high. After all, you’ve invested significantly in your UAE residency, whether through property, business, or your professional credentials.​

Here’s the good news: Your Golden Visa doesn’t disappear when you get a new passport. 

Let me walk you through everything you need to know about updating your Golden Visa passport information so you can travel with confidence and keep your residency status intact.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. All UAE Golden Visa regulations, fees, and procedures are subject to change by government authorities. Readers must verify all information, costs, and requirements directly with official UAE government sources (ICP at icp.gov.ae or GDRFA at gdrfad.gov.ae) before making any visa-related decisions or applications.

Why the Passport Update Question Causes So Much Confusion

The term “transfer” creates the first layer of confusion. When you search online, you’ll find people asking, “Can I transfer my UAE Golden Visa to another passport?” 

But technically, you’re not transferring anything. You’re updating your passport information in the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) system.​

Think of it this way: Your Golden Visa is linked to your biometric data—your fingerprints, facial recognition, and Emirates ID number. The passport is simply the travel document that gets you in and out of the country. When you renew your passport or change nationality, you need to update which passport document is associated with your existing visa record.​

The Real Problem You’re Facing

Here’s what actually worries most Golden Visa holders in your situation:

1. Will my visa become invalid if I don’t update immediately? 

No, your Golden Visa remains valid. However, you may face complications at UAE immigration checkpoints if your system records don’t match your current passport.​

2. Can you travel with both passports during the transition? 

Yes, and this is actually the recommended approach. Immigration officers at Dubai airports can update your new passport details in the system for free at the immigration counter. The changes are reflected in your UAE Pass in 3-7 business days for online applications.​

3. What if I changed my nationality entirely? 

You’ll need to notify UAE authorities immediately and submit both your old and new nationality passports. The process is more complex than a simple renewal, but your Golden Visa validity remains unchanged if you update properly.​

4. Will you need a new Emirates ID? 

Not always. Since April 2022, the Emirates ID has served as the primary proof of UAE residency. For simple passport renewals with the same nationality, you may not need a new Emirates ID.

Understanding What Actually Happens When You Update Your Passport

Let’s break down the reality versus the myths circulating in expat forums and WhatsApp groups.

1. What the UAE Government Actually Says

According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), the official authority managing Golden Visas, your residence visa is electronically stored in their system. Since the UAE moved to a digital residence visa system, visa details are no longer physically stamped in every passport—they’re stored electronically and linked to your Emirates ID.​

This means when you get a new passport, you’re simply updating which travel document is linked to your existing visa record in the ICP database.

2. Three Common Scenarios You Might Face

Scenario 1: Regular Passport Renewal (Same Nationality)

This is the simplest situation. Your Indian, British, American, or other nationality passport has expired, and you’ve obtained a new one from your embassy or consulate. In this case:

• Your Golden Visa validity remains completely unchanged​
• You need to update passport details with UAE immigration authorities​
• Both digital and physical updates are required in the ICP system​
• Processing time is typically 3-7 business days if done online​

The update cost ranges from AED 296.50 to AED 343.50 depending on whether you’re inside or outside the UAE when you apply.​

Scenario 2: Nationality Change (Different Passport)

You’ve obtained citizenship in a different country through naturalization or citizenship-by-investment programs. This scenario requires additional steps:

• Notification to authorities is mandatory​
• You must submit both old and new passports​
• Additional documentation proving the nationality change is required​
• The process is more complex but doesn’t invalidate your Golden Visa​

The update cost for nationality changes is approximately AED 309.90 to AED 349.90.​

Note: This is an estimated range. Actual costs vary by specific services required. Verify current fees with ICP before applying.

Scenario 3: Lost or Damaged Passport

In 2025, the UAE launched a groundbreaking new service specifically for Golden Visa holders who lose their passports abroad. This is a game-changer:​

• You can now apply for an electronic Return Document through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) website or app​
• Processing time is just 30 minutes​
• The document is valid for 7 days, single entry only​
• 24/7 emergency hotline available: +971 2 493 1133​

Upon returning to the UAE, you must obtain a new passport and update your visa details in the system.​

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Updating Golden Visa Passport Details

Now that you understand what’s actually happening, let’s walk through exactly how to update your passport information.

When You Must Update Your Passport Details

You’re legally required to update your passport information in these situations:​

• Your passport has expired and you’ve renewed it
• Your passport was lost or stolen
• You’ve changed your nationality
• Your passport is damaged beyond use

Documents You’ll Need

Before you start any application method, gather these documents:​

• Clear scan or photo of your old passport (all pages, especially the bio-data page and any pages with UAE stamps)
• Clear scan of your new passport’s bio-data page
• Copy of your current Golden Visa (digital or physical)
• Your original Emirates ID
• Recent digital photograph with white background (meeting ICP specifications)
• For nationality change: Additional documents proving the nationality change
• For dependents: Sponsor’s passport and Emirates ID

Pro tip: Make sure all scans are high-quality and clearly readable. Blurry or incomplete documents are the number one reason for application delays.​

Method 1: Online Through ICP Smart Services Portal (Recommended)

This is the fastest and most convenient option if you’re comfortable with online applications:

Step 1: Log in to the ICP Smart Services portal at icp.gov.ae using your UAE Pass credentials​

Step 2: Search for “Update Passport Details” or “Transfer Residence to New Passport” service​

Step 3: Fill in the application form with your new passport information

Step 4: Upload all required documents in the specified format

Step 5: Pay the fees online using your credit or debit card

Processing time: 3-7 business days​

Cost: AED 296.50 – AED 343.50 (inside UAE) or AED 176.75 – AED 296.50 (outside UAE)​

Method 2: Online Through GDRFA Dubai (For Dubai Residents Only)

If you’re a Dubai resident, you have an additional option:

Step 1: Access gdrfad.gov.ae using your UAE Pass login​

Step 2: Select “Update Personal Information” from your dashboard

Step 3: Submit your application and required documents

Step 4: Receive confirmation via SMS or email once approved​

Processing time: Similar to ICP portal, typically 3-7 days

Method 3: At Dubai Airport Immigration (Free Quick Update)

Here’s a little-known secret that can save you money: If you have both your old and new passports with you, immigration officers at Dubai airports can update your passport details in the system immediately.​

How it works:

• Carry both your old passport (with Golden Visa stamp) and new passport
• When you arrive at Dubai airport, approach the immigration counter
• Present both passports to the immigration officer
• They’ll update your new passport details in the system on the spot
• Changes are reflect in the UAE Pass within 24 hours​

This method is ideal if you’re returning from a trip abroad and need a quick, free update. However, make sure you have both passports with you.

Method 4: Through Typing Centers or PRO Services

If you prefer professional assistance or are outside the UAE without access to online services:

• Visit any approved typing center in your emirate
• They’ll handle the entire application process for you
• Expect to pay an additional AED 200-300 in service charges on top of government fees​

Total estimated cost: AED 500-650 depending on the center

Processing time: 3-7 business days

Also Read: Golden Visa Myths Busted: JSB Founder on Talk 100.3

Breaking Down the Real Costs

Let’s talk money, because nobody likes surprise expenses. Here’s exactly what you’ll pay to update your passport details:

Important note about Emirates ID: You may not need to pay for a new Emirates ID for simple passport renewals. However, if you do need an Emirates ID replacement, add AED 1,150-1,200 for a 10-year validity card.​

Disclaimer: All costs mentioned are based on the latest estimates. Fees are subject to change by UAE authorities. Always verify the latest fees on the official ICP website (icp.gov.ae) or GDRFA Dubai portal (gdrfad.gov.ae) before applying.

Special Situations You Need to Know About

1. Traveling with Dual Citizenship

Here’s a critical rule: You cannot switch between multiple passports for UAE entry and exit without updating your biometric records. Your Golden Visa must be linked to one primary passport in the UAE system. The biometric system at UAE immigration will flag any discrepancies.​

If you hold dual citizenship, decide which passport will be your primary travel document for UAE purposes and ensure your Golden Visa records reflect that passport.​

2. What If You Get a Second Passport Through Investment?

Good news: UAE residents can obtain second passports through citizenship-by-investment programs (like Portugal, Dominica, or St. Kitts) without affecting their UAE residency status, as long as they maintain a valid UAE visa and comply with immigration laws.​

However, you must still update UAE authorities about your new passport and cannot use it for UAE entry/exit until it is properly registered in the system.​

3. The New 2025 Consular Services for Golden Visa Holders

In a groundbreaking announcement at GITEX Global 2025, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ICP launched special consular services exclusively for Golden Visa holders:​

Emergency Travel Support:

• 24/7 hotline: +971 2 493 1133​
• Consular assistance at UAE embassies worldwide
• Crisis evacuation support if needed​

Electronic Return Document:

• Apply online if you lose your passport abroad​
• Receive document within 30 minutes​
• Valid for 7 days, single entry​
• Free of charge​

This is the first service of its kind in the region, extending protections traditionally reserved only for Emirati citizens to Golden Visa holders.​

Common Mistakes That Could Delay Your Application

Documentation Errors

• Incomplete passport scans: Submit all pages of your old passport, not just the bio-data page​
• Poor photo quality: Your digital photo must have a white background and meet ICAO specifications​
• Expired documents: Ensure your new passport has at least 6 months validity before applying​

Process Mistakes

• Assuming the old passport is sufficient: You must actively update your records; the system doesn’t do this automatically​
• Trying to enter UAE with a new passport without system update: While you can temporarily carry both passports, update the system as soon as possible to avoid complications​
• Not carrying both passports during transition: If you haven’t formally updated the system yet, always carry both your old and new passports when traveling​

Financial Planning Mistakes

• Not budgeting for both passport update and visa renewal together: If your Golden Visa is also approaching renewal, plan for total costs of AED 5,000-8,000​
• Using unauthorized agents: Only use licensed typing centers or apply directly through official portals to avoid scams and overcharging

Understanding Golden Visa Renewal Requirements

Since we’re talking about passports and visas, let’s address something closely related: Golden Visa renewal. Your passport validity directly impacts your ability to renew your Golden Visa.

1. Passport Validity Requirements for Golden Visa Renewal

When it’s time to renew your Golden Visa (after 5 or 10 years), you must have a passport valid for at least 6 months. If your passport expires during your Golden Visa validity period: renew your passport first, then update the details with immigration authorities. Your Golden Visa remains valid throughout this process.​

2. Golden Visa Renewal Costs

Disclaimer: Golden Visa renewal costs vary based on your category (investor, entrepreneur, or skilled professional), emirate, and processing method. Always verify current fees with UAE authorities before planning your renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I actually transfer my UAE Golden Visa from one passport to another?

Technically, you don’t “transfer” the visa. Your Golden Visa remains valid and attached to you as a person through your biometric data. What you do is update your passport information in the ICP system to reflect your new passport details. The visa itself doesn’t move—you’re just updating which travel document is linked to your visa record.​

2. How long does the passport update process take?

Online applications through ICP or GDRFA typically take 3-7 business days. If you update your passport details at the Dubai airport immigration counter when you arrive, it can be done immediately.​

3. What happens if I enter the UAE with my new passport before updating the system?

You have two options: carry both your old passport (with Golden Visa stamp) and new passport, or update your passport details at the airport immigration counter. Immigration officers can update your records on the spot. However, it’s best practice to update officially through ICP or GDRFA to avoid any potential complications.​

4. Do I need a new Emirates ID when you update my passport?

Not always. For simple passport renewals with the same nationality, you may not need a new Emirates ID. The UAE’s digital residence system has made the Emirates ID your primary proof of residency since April 2022. However, for nationality changes or if other visa data changes, you must update your Emirates ID separately.​

5. Can I change my nationality and keep my Golden Visa?

Yes, absolutely. You can change your nationality without losing your Golden Visa. However, you must notify UAE authorities immediately and submit both your old and new passports for updating your records. This is particularly relevant for individuals who obtain second citizenship through investment programs while maintaining their UAE Golden Visa status.​

6. What if I lose my passport while traveling abroad?

As of October 2025, Golden Visa holders can apply for an electronic Return Document through the MoFA website or app using UAE Pass. You’ll receive the document within 30 minutes, and it’s valid for 7 days for a single entry into the UAE. The service is free of charge. Upon return to the UAE, you must obtain a new passport and update your visa details immediately.​

7. Can you use your Golden Visa with two different passports if you have dual citizenship?

No. Your Golden Visa must be linked to one primary passport in the UAE system. You cannot switch between passports for UAE entry and exit, as the biometric system will flag discrepancies. Choose which passport will be your primary travel document for UAE purposes and ensure your visa records reflect that passport.​

8. Do my family members also need to update their passport details?

Yes. Each family member sponsored under your Golden Visa must separately update their passport details following the same process. You’ll need to provide additional sponsor documents (your passport and Emirates ID) along with their documents.​

Final Thoughts

The key is to act promptly when you get a new passport, gather the correct documents, and choose the application method that works best for your situation. 

Your Golden Visa gives you 10 years of stability, family sponsorship rights, business opportunities, and the freedom to call the UAE home. Don’t let a simple passport update cause unnecessary stress. Follow this guide, update your records properly, and continue enjoying all the benefits your Golden Visa provides.

Book your free consultation call today with the experts of JSB Incorporation to learn more about securing your UAE Golden Visa.