How to Apply for UAE Entry Permit (Pink Slip) Online — Guide 2026
A UAE entry permit (commonly called a “pink slip” because of its historical pink colour) allows a person to enter UAE for the purpose of completing their UAE residence visa processing. Understanding how to apply for it online in 2026 makes the process faster and cheaper.
In this guide:
What Is a UAE Entry Permit?
- Also called: employment entry permit; residence visa entry permit; “pink slip”
- Purpose: allows a person to enter UAE for the purpose of completing their residence visa (medical test, Emirates ID, visa stamping); valid 60 days from date of issue
- Not a residence visa: entry permit is NOT a residence visa; it’s a permission to enter UAE to get the residence visa
- Inside UAE: if already inside UAE on a valid visit visa, you can typically change status to residence visa without needing to leave and re-enter; depends on sponsor
Who Applies for the Entry Permit?
- Employer: employment entry permit applied for by UAE employer through MOHRE (Tas’heel centres or online MOHRE portal)
- Free zone authority: for investor/freelancer visas, the free zone applies for the entry permit on behalf of the company shareholder
- Individual (on Green Visa or Golden Visa): self-applied via ICA UAE app in some cases
Applying via ICA UAE Smart App (For Applicable Visa Types)
- Download UAE ICA Smart Services app (iOS or Android)
- Register account: using passport number and date of birth
- Navigate to “Visa Services” → “Apply for Entry Permit”
- Select visa type: tourist visit; investor; student; etc.
- Complete applicant details: passport info; sponsor details; purpose of entry
- Upload documents: passport scan; sponsor’s UAE licence or ID (if applicable); medical insurance (for some visa types)
- Pay fee: credit or debit card; AED 200-500 depending on visa type
- Submit: application reviewed by ICA; typically 1-5 business days
- Entry permit issued: download from ICA app; present at UAE airport
UAE Entry Permit for Free Zone Investor Visas
- Free zone applies on your behalf: most free zones manage the entry permit process through their own portal; you do not apply directly to ICA
- Documents you provide to free zone: passport copy; recent photo; personal details form
- Free zone submits to ICA: 2-5 business days typically; entry permit emailed to you
- Entry permit validity: 60 days; you must enter UAE within 60 days and complete residence visa process
After Arriving in UAE on Entry Permit
- Medical fitness test: book and complete UAE medical test within the first week of arrival
- Emirates ID registration: submit biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at approved Emirates ID centre or typing centre
- Residence visa application: your employer or free zone submits the residence visa application to GDRFA
- Visa stamping: GDRFA stamps the UAE residence visa in your passport
- Total process: typically 2-4 weeks from arrival on entry permit to residence visa stamped