Your UAE Residence Visa Number (officially the File Number) is a unique multi-part code that identifies your specific residency permit in the immigration system. Unlike your Emirates ID number, this number changes every time you renew your visa. It is essential for government forms, driving license files, and sponsorship applications.
Do this next:
- Check your e-Visa PDF: Look for the line labeled “File No” (usually starts with 101, 201, or 301).
- Download the UAEICP App: Use the “File Validity” service to find your number if you don’t have the PDF.
- Take a Screenshot: Save the number to your “Favorites” to avoid searching for it during official visits.
What is the UAE Visa Number?
The term “Visa Number” is often used interchangeably to describe two different things. It is critical to know which one your application form requires:
- The File Number (Residence Number): This is the long, slash-separated code (e.g.,
201/2026/2/1234567). This is the actual “Visa Number” requested for most legal and government applications. - The Unified Number (UID): A permanent 9-digit number assigned to you for life. This is not your visa number, though it appears on the same document.
Decoding the File Number Format
Your visa file number tells a story. It is typically broken down into four specific sections:
| Section | Example | Meaning |
| Emirate Code | 201 | The emirate issuing the visa (e.g., Dubai). |
| Year | 2026 | The year the visa service was initiated. |
| Service Code | 2 | The type of service (e.g., 2 for Employment, 3 for Family). |
| Sequence | 1234567 | Your unique serial number for this specific visa. |
Method 1: Finding it on the Electronic Visa (e-Visa)
Since the UAE phased out physical passport stamps for most residents in late 2022, your e-Visa is the primary source of truth.
Step 1: Open the PDF document sent to you (or your sponsor) upon residency approval.
Step 2: Look at the top right or center block of the document.
Step 3: Locate the field labeled File No. It will look like 101/2026/2/XXXXXXX.
Note: You might also see a field simply labeled “Visa Number” containing only the final 7–9 digits. However, when a form asks for your “Residence Visa Number,” you should usually provide the full File Number unless specified otherwise.
Method 2: Using the ICP Smart App (For Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.)
If you don’t have your e-Visa PDF handy, you can retrieve your number directly from the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) system.
Step 1: Download the UAEICP app or visit the “ICP Smart Services website“.
Step 2: Select “Public Services” (you do not always need to log in).
Step 3: Choose “File Validity” from the menu.
Step 4: Select “Search by Passport Information”.
Step 5: Select “Residency” (not Visa) and enter your passport details and expiry date.
The system will display your full status, including your current File Number and expiry date.
Method 3: Using the GDRFA Website (For Dubai Visas)
If your visa was issued in Dubai (Emirate code 201), the GDRFA portal is your best option.
Step 1: Go to the “GDRFA Dubai website” or app.
Step 2: Select “Visa Status Inquiry”.
Step 3: Enter your First Name, Passport Number, and Nationality.
Step 4: Complete the captcha and hit Search.
Your details, including the specific 201/... file number, will appear on the screen.
Visa Number vs. Unified Number (UID) vs. Emirates ID
It is easy to mix these up. Use this table to ensure you are using the right number for the right service.
| Feature | Visa File Number | Unified Number (UID) | Emirates ID Number |
| Format | Long with slashes (201/2026/...) | 9 Digits (123456789) | 15 Digits (784-1990-...) |
| Does it change? | Yes, changes with every renewal. | No, permanent for life. | No, permanent for life. |
| Where is it? | e-Visa / ICP App | e-Visa / Top of Emirates ID | Center of Emirates ID |
| Primary Use | Visa renewal, driving files, sponsorship. | Identifying you across borders. | Daily ID, banking, telecom. |
Pro Tip: Understanding Emirate Codes
If you are filling out a form that asks for the “Department” or “Emirate” section of your visa number, use the first three digits of your File Number.
- 101: Abu Dhabi
- 201: Dubai
- 301: Sharjah
- 401: Ajman
- 501: Umm Al Quwain
- 601: Ras Al Khaimah
- 701: Fujairah
Final Thoughts
Your UAE residence visa number is the “technical” key to your legal status. While you will memorize your Emirates ID number for daily use, the Visa File Number is what keeps you legally in the country. Always ensure you have a digital copy of your latest e-Visa saved on your phone—you will thank yourself the next time you need to visit a typing center or government office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the visa number on the Emirates ID card?
No. Your Emirates ID card prints your ID Number (center) and your Unified Number (UID) (usually roughly above the ID number or on the back), but it does not display the full Visa File Number. You must check your e-Visa document or the ICP app for that.
Does my visa number change when I renew?
Yes. Unlike your Emirates ID number or UID, your Visa File Number changes every time a new residency permit is issued. Always use the number from your current active visa, not an old one.
What if I lost my e-Visa PDF?
You can download a new copy using the UAE Pass app or the ICP app. Alternatively, you can visit an Amer center (in Dubai) or a typing center to request a printout of your latest residency permit for a small fee.
Is the “Entry Permit” number the same as the Visa number?
No. An Entry Permit number is temporary and used only to enter the country before your residency is finalized. Once your residency is stamped (digitally), you get a new Residence File Number.
Last updated: October 2026
Reviewed by: Dubaihowto Experts
Author: The DubaiHowto Editorial Team
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Last reviewed: February 2026. Sources: Official UAE portals and service providers