Key Highlights

• Use GDRFA (gdrfad.gov.ae) exclusively for Dubai applications; ICP (icp.gov.ae) handles Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, UAQ, RAK, and Fujairah.
• Golden Visa processing typically takes several weeks depending on your category and documentation completeness. Contact official authorities for current timelines specific to your application.
• Schedule your mandatory medical fitness test at DHA-approved centers (Dubai) or EHS facilities (other emirates) once you receive pre-approval notification.
• Your approved Golden Visa appears automatically on UAE Pass and UAEICP apps for instant digital access—no need to wait for physical documents.

You applied for the UAE Golden Visa weeks ago. Your future, your career, your family’s stability and even your peace of mind hang in the balance. Every morning, you open your email hoping for an update. But nothing.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Thousands of Golden Visa applicants face this same uncertainty every month. The application is submitted, fees are paid, but then… silence. Days turn into weeks, and you’re left wondering: Is my application even being processed? Did I miss something? Should I follow up?

Here’s the truth: checking your Golden Visa status doesn’t have to be a mystery. The UAE government has made it incredibly simple to track your application online if you know where to look. 

In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through every official method to check your Golden Visa status, decode what each update means, and show you exactly what to do next based on where your application stands right now.​

Which Portal Should You Use? Dubai vs Other Emirates

Here’s where many applicants get confused. Your tracking portal depends entirely on which emirate processed your application.​

The UAE has two primary authorities handling Golden Visa applications. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) manages all applications submitted in Dubai. Meanwhile, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) handles applications from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.​

If you applied in Dubai:

• Official website: gdrfad.gov.ae​
• Mobile app: DubaiNow​
• Contact number: 800 5111 (inside UAE) or +971 4 313 9999 (outside UAE)​

If you applied in other emirates:

• Official website: icp.gov.ae​
• Mobile app: UAEICP (available on iOS and Android)​
• Contact number: 600522222​

Using the wrong portal is the most common mistake applicants make. If you applied in Dubai but check the ICP portal, you’ll see no results—and vice versa.​

How to Check Golden Visa Status Through ICP Portal

If your application was processed through Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or any emirate except Dubai, follow these steps to check your status.

Method 1: Using the ICP Website

Visit the ICP Smart Services website at smartservices.icp.gov.ae. 

Navigate to “Application Tracking” or “Track Application Status” in the main menu. 

You’ll need to enter your application number (provided when you submitted), passport number, and reference number (sent via SMS or email confirmation).​

The portal is available in both Arabic and English, making it accessible regardless of your language preference.​

What status information will you see? 

The system displays several stages: “Application received/submitted” means your paperwork has entered their system and initial processing has begun. 

“Under review/processing” indicates background verification is underway, which typically takes 10 to 15 days depending on your nationality. 

“Pre-approval status” is a positive sign—it means GDRFA or ICP has reviewed your application and you should prepare for your medical test. 

“Awaiting visa/residency cancellation” appears when pre-approval is granted but you need to cancel your current visa before proceeding. The system also shows if additional documents are required or if your application has been approved or rejected.​

Method 2: Using the UAEICP Mobile App

Download the UAEICP app from Google Play or the App Store. 

Log in using your UAE Pass credentials or create a new account. 

Access the Golden Visa services section and track your application using your application number or passport details. 

The app sends real-time push notifications whenever your status changes, eliminating the need to check manually.​

Method 3: Using UAE Pass Integration

Once your Golden Visa is approved, your digital visa becomes visible on the UAE Pass app automatically. 

The system integrates seamlessly with your Emirates ID and residency information, giving you instant access to all your identity documents in one secure location.​

How to Check Golden Visa Status Through GDRFA Dubai

For Dubai applicants, the process looks slightly different but remains straightforward.

Method 1: Using the GDRFA Website

Visit the official GDRFA website at gdrfad.gov.ae. 

Select “Services” and then click “Track Application Status.” Choose your visa type—either “Residency” or “Entry Permit.” 

Enter your Application Number and Payment Reference Number (PRN), both found on your submission receipt or SMS confirmation. 

Complete the CAPTCHA verification and submit your query.​

The system immediately displays your current application status, including processing stage, approval status, or any outstanding requirements.​

Method 2: Using the DubaiNow App

Download the DubaiNow app from your device’s app store. 

Log in using your UAE Pass or registered email address. 

Navigate to the GDRFA services section and enter your application number, reference number, and passport information. 

The app provides real-time tracking and sends push notifications for any status changes, keeping you updated without having to check repeatedly.​

Method 3: In-Person at Amer Centers

If you prefer face-to-face assistance or encounter issues with online tracking, you can visit an Amer center in Dubai. 

Schedule an appointment through the GDRFA website to avoid long wait times. 

Bring your application documents, passport, and reference numbers. 

Amer staff can access your Golden Visa application status directly and help resolve any documentation issues on the spot.​

Also Read: Why UAE Golden Visa Beats H-1B for Top Professionals in 2025

What Information You Need Before Checking Status

Before you start tracking, gather these essential details to ensure a smooth process.

Essential information required:

• Application number (provided at the time of submission)​
• Reference number (typically sent via SMS or email after applying)​
• Passport number​
• Passport expiry date​
• Nationality​
• Date of birth (required for some checks)​
• Emirates ID number (if already issued)​

Where to find these numbers: Check your application submission receipt, which should contain your application number and reference details. 

Review SMS confirmations from immigration authorities. These messages typically include your reference number and application tracking information. 

Look through email notifications from your visa service provider or immigration department. Keep your payment receipt handy, as it often includes tracking information.​

If you’ve misplaced these details, contact your visa service provider or the relevant immigration authority helpline immediately.​

Decoding Your Golden Visa Status Messages

Understanding what each status message means helps you know exactly what action to take next.

“Submitted” or “Application Received”: Your application has been entered into the immigration system and initial processing has begun. This stage may require background checks, which can take up to one month depending on your nationality. No action is required from your side at this point—just patience.​

“Pre-Approval in Progress”: GDRFA or ICP is actively reviewing your application. This is the right time to undergo your medical fitness test at a DHA-approved or EHS facility. It’s a positive indicator that your application is moving forward.​

“Awaiting Visa/Residency Cancellation”: Pre-approval has been granted, but you need to cancel your current visa before the Golden Visa can be issued. Contact your current employer or sponsor to process your visa cancellation. Once completed, final approval typically happens within the same day or a few hours.​

“Under Processing” or “Received”: Background verification is underway. This typically takes 10 to 15 days, though certain nationalities may experience longer processing times due to additional security checks.​

“Requires Additional Documents”: The system has flagged missing or incomplete information. Check the GDRFA or ICP portal for specific details about what’s needed, or visit an Amer center in person for clarification. Common missing items include nomination letters from relevant UAE authorities or improperly attested educational documents.​

“Approved”: Your Golden Visa has been officially approved and issued. The digital version is immediately visible on the GDRFA app, UAE Pass, and UAEICP app. You can now proceed to apply for your 10-year Emirates ID.​

“Rejected”: Your application has been denied. Contact the immigration authority directly to understand the specific reason for rejection. You may have the option to appeal or reapply after addressing the issues identified.​

Typical Golden Visa Processing Timeline 

Setting realistic expectations about processing times helps reduce anxiety during the waiting period.

Standard processing times by category:

• Property investors: 7 to 10 business days​
• Skilled professionals: 10 to 15 business days​
• Entrepreneurs: 10 to 20 business days​
• Exceptional talents: Varies based on nomination approval from relevant UAE ministries​

Timeline breakdown after each stage: From application submission to pre-approval typically takes 10 to 13 days with complete documentation. Medical test results are processed within 24 to 48 hours, though express services can deliver results in as little as 30 minutes. 

Once your current visa is cancelled, Golden Visa approval happens the same day or within a few hours. Emirates ID application to issuance requires 14 to 16 days. Physical Emirates ID delivery takes one to two days after printing.​

Factors that can cause delays: Incomplete or incorrect documentation is the most common culprit. Expired documents such as passports, professional licenses, or educational certificates will halt your application. Background check requirements for certain nationalities can extend processing times. 

Missing attestations or equivalency certificates from the UAE Ministry of Education delay many professional applications. Outstanding fines or previous visa violations must be cleared before approval. System changes or new procedures introduced may temporarily affect processing speeds.​

Disclaimer: Processing times are approximate and may vary based on individual circumstances, application category, and current immigration workload. Always verify current processing times through official government channels.

Common Issues When Checking Golden Visa Status

Real-world problems happen. Here’s how to solve them.

“Application Status Not Found”: First, verify you’re using the correct portal—ICP for most emirates, GDRFA specifically for Dubai applications.

Double-check your application and reference numbers for typos or errors. If you submitted recently, wait 24 to 48 hours for the system to update before checking again. If the problem persists after this period, contact the appropriate helpline: GDRFA at 800 5111 or ICP at 600522222.​

Status stuck at “Submitted” for an extended time: Background checks for certain nationalities genuinely take longer than average. 

If your status hasn’t changed after the expected processing time for your category, visit an immigration center in person for clarification. Contact official channels—GDRFA at 800 5111 or ICP at 600522222—to inquire about your specific case.​

“Awaiting Submission” or similar generic status: These messages often indicate system changes or procedural updates happening behind the scenes. They’re not necessarily negative—often just administrative processing. Check your email and SMS regularly for any requests or updates from immigration authorities.​

Application shows additional documents required: The portal may not specify exactly which documents are missing. Visit an Amer center or contact the authority directly to get specific details. Common missing items include nomination approvals from UAE ministries or improperly attested educational certificates.​

Status differs between portals or apps: Check the most recent update timestamp on each platform. The UAEICP app shows your current residence visa status, which may update at different times than the application portal. Give the system a few hours to synchronize after major status changes.​

What to Do After Checking Your Golden Visa Status

Your action plan depends entirely on what status message you’re seeing.

If your status shows “Pre-Approved”: Schedule your medical fitness test immediately at a DHA-approved center in Dubai or an EHS facility in other emirates. 

The test includes a blood test (screening for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and tuberculosis), a chest X-ray (primarily for tuberculosis detection), and a brief physical examination. 

Results typically arrive within 24 to 48 hours, with express service available for faster processing. If you currently hold another UAE visa, arrange for its cancellation through your employer or sponsor. Prepare documentation for your upcoming Emirates ID biometrics appointment.​

If your status shows “Approved”: Apply for your 10-year Emirates ID through Amer centers or ICP service centers. Complete biometrics collection, including fingerprints and photographs. 

Arrange comprehensive health insurance coverage for the full visa period—this is mandatory. Your digital Golden Visa is already accessible on UAE Pass and the UAEICP app for immediate use.​

If documents are required: Contact your visa service provider immediately or visit an immigration center in person to identify exactly what’s missing. Prepare any missing attestations or equivalency certificates from the UAE Ministry of Education. Resubmit required documents through official portals or at Amer centers.​

If your application is delayed beyond normal timelines: Contact the immigration helpline for a status inquiry—GDRFA at 800 5111 or ICP at 600522222. 

Visit an Amer center in Dubai or an ICA center in other emirates for in-person assistance. Check for any outstanding fines or immigration violations using official portals—these must be cleared before approval. Verify that all submitted documents are complete, current, and properly attested.​

The Mandatory Medical Test in Your Status Journey

The medical fitness test is a critical checkpoint that every Golden Visa applicant aged 18 and above must complete.​

When the medical test is required: After your status shows “pre-approval in progress,” you’ll need to complete this test before final Golden Visa approval. This is a mandatory requirement with no exceptions for adult applicants.​

What the medical test includes: Blood screening for communicable diseases, including HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and tuberculosis. A chest X-ray to detect active or past tuberculosis infections. A brief physical examination conducted by licensed medical staff.​

Where to take your medical test: In Dubai, visit any DHA-approved medical center. In other emirates, use EHS facilities or Ministry of Health-approved centers. Only tests from government-approved facilities are accepted—tests conducted abroad or at non-approved centers will be rejected.​

Medical test results timeline: Standard service delivers results within 24 to 48 hours. VIP or express service provides results in 30 minutes to a few hours for those who need faster processing. Results are automatically transmitted electronically to immigration authorities—you don’t need to submit them manually.​

Medical certificate validity: Your medical fitness certificate remains valid for 90 days after issuance. You must submit your final visa application within this window to avoid retaking the test.​

Cost considerations: Standard medical fitness tests typically cost AED 700 to 750. Express or VIP services cost more but deliver much faster results.​

Tracking Your Emirates ID After Golden Visa Approval

Once your Golden Visa is approved, the next step is obtaining your Emirates ID—your official UAE residency proof.

Emirates ID status check methods: Use the ICP ID Card Status portal by entering your PRAN number (application reference) or Emirates ID number for renewals. The UAEICP mobile app also provides convenient tracking from your phone.​

Emirates ID processing stages: Your application moves through several stages: submitted, processing, approved, printed, dispatched or ready for collection, and finally delivered. You can track progress through each stage using the ICP portal or app.​

Standard processing time: From Emirates ID application submission to issuance typically takes 14 to 16 days. Physical card delivery occurs one to two days after printing.​

Accessing your digital Emirates ID: While waiting for your physical card, you can access your digital Emirates ID through the UAE Pass app immediately after approval. The UAEICP app also provides downloadable digital copies. Store your Emirates ID in Apple Wallet (for iPhone users) for quick access.​

Also Read: Top 15 UAE Golden Visa Benefits: Your Complete 2025 Guide

Contact Information for Status Inquiries

When online tracking isn’t enough, these are your official contact channels.

ICP contact channels (for Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, UAQ, RAK, and Fujairah):

• Toll-free inside UAE: 600522222​
• International: +971 600522222​
• ICP Live Chat: Available through “Ask Hamad” feature on the ICP website​
• Email: Use the contact form on icp.gov.ae​

GDRFA Dubai contact channels (for Dubai only):

• Toll-free inside UAE: 800 5111​
• International: +971 4 313 9999​
• Email: 
• amer@gdrfad.gov.ae
• DubaiNow app customer service: Available through the app’s support feature​

Common Mistakes That Affect Status Checks

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure smooth status tracking.

Using the wrong portal: Dubai applications must be checked through GDRFA, not ICP. All other emirates use the ICP portal exclusively. Checking the wrong portal will always show “no results” or “application not found.”​

Incorrect information entry: Typos in your passport number or application number will prevent the system from finding your records. Wrong date of birth or incorrect nationality selection produces no results. All data must match exactly what you submitted in your original application.​

Checking too soon after submission: The system requires 24 to 48 hours to process and register your initial submission. Immediate checking often shows “not found” status simply because data hasn’t been entered yet.​

Not keeping application documents: Lost application numbers or reference numbers make tracking impossible without contacting support. Always save SMS confirmations and email receipts from your submission.​

Golden Visa Family Sponsorship Status

Your Golden Visa unlocks valuable family benefits that standard residency permits don’t offer.

Who you can sponsor: Your spouse and children with no age limit—adult sons and daughters can remain under your sponsorship indefinitely. Your parents can be sponsored with proof of relationship and valid health insurance. You can sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers.​

Family visa application tracking: Each dependent receives a separate application number. Track each family member’s status individually through the same GDRFA or ICP portals you used for your own application. Family sponsorship typically follows the same processing timeline as the main Golden Visa holder.​

Golden Visa Renewal Status Tracking

Your Golden Visa doesn’t end after 10 years—it’s renewable indefinitely if you maintain eligibility.

Renewal timeline: Begin your renewal process one to two months before your visa expiry date to avoid fines. Five-year and 10-year validity periods are both renewable depending on your category. Renewals can continue indefinitely as long as you maintain eligibility criteria.​

Checking renewal status: Use the same portals as initial applications—ICP or GDRFA based on your emirate. Log in with your UAE Pass or registered account credentials. Search for the renewal service and track your renewal application status just like you tracked your initial application.​

Renewal processing time: With complete documentation, renewals typically process within one to two weeks. Express processing is available for an additional fee, reducing the timeline to five to six working days.​

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does Golden Visa approval take?

Most applicants with complete documentation receive approval within one to three weeks, though timelines vary by category.​

• 2. Can I check someone else’s Golden Visa status?

Yes, using their passport details, file number, or Emirates ID number—though you should have their permission.​

• 3. What if my status hasn’t changed in weeks?

Contact the immigration helpline or visit an immigration center in person after seven or more business days without updates.​

4. Can I track my application using only my passport number?

Yes, through the ICP File Validity tool or GDRFA portal using passport details along with other identifying information like nationality and date of birth.​

5. What happens if my application is rejected?

You can appeal the decision or reapply after addressing the documentation or eligibility issues that caused rejection.​

6. How do I know if my medical test passed?

Results are sent electronically to immigration authorities automatically. Your medical certificate remains valid for 30 days.​

7. When will I receive my Emirates ID after approval?

Application to delivery typically takes 14 to 16 days from the time you complete biometrics.​

8. Can I travel while my application is pending?

Check with immigration authorities for your specific case. Generally, it’s recommended to remain in the UAE during final processing stages.​

9. Is checking my status free?

Yes, all official government portals provide completely free status tracking with no charges.​

10. What if I applied through an agent but want to check myself?

Use the application and reference numbers provided by your agent to check the status on official government portals directly.​

Tips for Smooth Status Tracking

These practical strategies help you stay informed without stress.

Best practices for tracking:

• Save your application number and reference number immediately upon submission​
• Check status exclusively on official government portals—never use third-party websites​
• Enable push notifications through mobile apps to receive automatic updates​
• Keep all submission documents organized in one folder, physical or digital​
• Check status during business hours when you can immediately follow up if needed​
• Screenshot each status update for your personal records
• Set calendar reminders for expected processing milestones based on your category​

Red flags to avoid:

• Third-party “status checking” websites that charge fees— official tracking is always free​
• Agents promising to “speed up” applications for extra money—processing follows standard government timelines​
• Unofficial apps or services claiming to provide tracking—stick to GDRFA and ICP official apps​
• Sharing sensitive passport or application information on non-government platforms​

Take Control of Your Golden Visa Journey

Tracking your Golden Visa status online isn’t complicated when you know the right steps. Whether you applied through Dubai’s GDRFA or through ICP in another emirate, official government portals give you instant access to your application progress.

How JSB Incorporation Can Help

Our team understands that your time is valuable and that uncertainty creates stress. That’s why we handle everything: 

• Document preparation and attestation
• Application submission through the correct channels
• Real-time status monitoring and updates
• Follow-up with immigration authorities when needed
• Preparation for medical tests and Emirates ID biometrics

Whether you’re stuck with a “pending” status that won’t move, confused about which documents are missing, or simply want expert guidance from day one, we’re here to help. With transparent pricing, direct communication, and a proven track record, JSB Incorporation turns the complex Golden Visa process into a straightforward path to your UAE future.

Book your free consultation call today with the experts of JSB Incorporation to learn more.