If you’ve recently sponsored a friend or family member for a Dubai visit visa, you might have noticed a refundable security deposit included in the total application fee.
Good news — once your visitor exits the UAE or changes visa status, you’re eligible to claim this deposit back. However, the refund process is time-sensitive and must be completed within a specific deadline.
Here’s a complete guide on how to check eligibility, gather documents, and apply for your Dubai visit visa security deposit refund through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD).
✅ Who Can Apply for a Refund
You are eligible to request a refund if:
- The visitor has left the UAE or converted their visit visa into another visa type (such as employment or residence).
- The refund request is submitted within 30 days of the visitor’s departure.
⏳ Important: Late applications (after 30 days) may not be accepted.
You can claim the refund:
- 💻 Online via the GDRFAD website using UAE Pass, or
- 🏢 In person at any Amer Centre in Dubai.
💵 Refund Amounts and Service Fees
According to GDRFAD, here’s the cost breakdown:
| Item | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Security deposit | 1,000 |
| Service fee | 20 |
| Collection and reimbursement fee | 40 |
✅ Once approved, the refund is typically credited to your bank account within two working days.
🧾 Documents Required
Make sure you have the following before applying:
- 📄 Proof of exit — passport exit stamp (scan/photo) or travel movement report from GDRFAD.
- 🪪 Copy of visitor’s passport and visit visa.
- 💳 Original payment receipt for the security deposit.
In some cases, proof of exit may not be needed if the immigration system has automatically updated the departure record.
🌐 How to Apply for Refund Online (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to submit your refund request digitally:
- Visit the GDRFAD Dubai website → www.gdrfad.gov.ae
- Log in using your UAE Pass credentials.
- Click on ‘Existing Applications and Dependents’.
- Enter the application/transaction number and visa validity dates.
- Select the visa record linked to your security deposit.
- Click ‘Refund’ → review your details carefully.
- Confirm your refund method (bank account or card used for payment).
- Click ‘Process Refund’ to submit.
📩 After submission, you’ll receive a tracking number to monitor your refund status.
📞 Need Help? Here’s Who to Contact
If you need clarification or run into technical issues, contact:
- GDRFA Dubai Call Centre: ☎️ 800 5111
- Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP): ☎️ 600 522222
👉 Note:
If the visa was applied through a travel agency, you must claim the refund via the same agent or portal that processed the application.
🕊️ Quick Tips for a Smooth Refund Process
- Apply within 30 days of visa cancellation or departure.
- Keep all receipts and copies from the original application.
- Ensure the bank account name matches the sponsor’s registered details.
- Always check your email and SMS for GDRFAD updates or refund confirmations.
Dubai Visit Visa Refund 2025: Step-by-Step Guide to Claim Security Deposit
Learn how to claim your Dubai visit visa security deposit refund online or at Amer Centres. Full eligibility rules, documents, step-by-step process, and helpline numbers. The Desis Dubai, Khaleej Times Community, or Gulf Life Guide
💰 Got a Dubai visit visa refund pending?
Here’s how to claim your AED 1,000 security deposit after your guest exits the UAE.
Step-by-step guide ✅ Documents 📄 Helplines ☎️
