In a new visa update, United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced that all visa applicants must now include a copy of their passport s outer cover when applying for an entry permit.

This rule takes immediate effect, according to Khaleej Times and officials at Amer Centers.

What You Now Need for a UAE Visa:

If you re planning to visit the UAE, here’s what you must now submit:

• A copy of your passport s photo page
• A copy of your passport’s outer cover page (new requirement)
• A recent passport-sized photo
• Hotel booking confirmation
• A return flight ticket

Why the Passport Cover?

Though UAE authorities haven’t given an official reason, experts say it could help:

• Confirm a passport’s authenticity
• Prevent document fraud
• Make identity verification easier
• Speed up the visa process

Travel agents believe that adding the passport cover helps show the passport is real and not tampered with, making the visa system more reliable.

A Pattern of Stricter Visa Rules:

This new requirement comes after the UAE recently tightened its visa policies. Some countries are now facing stricter rules for visit and work visas.

These changes are part of the UAE’s larger push for more secure and transparent immigration systems.

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This move by the UAE shows a clear intent to make their immigration process more secure.

Requiring the passport cover page adds another layer of verification, reducing the risk of forgery or fraud.

It also signals that the UAE is continuing to tighten control over its borders, especially as global travel increases.

While the change may seem small, it reflects a bigger shift toward stronger identity checks and strict visa policies, especially for travelers from high-risk regions.

Travelers and agents must now be extra careful to follow every detail in the visa checklist.