The UID number is a permanent, unique 9 to 15-digit ID linking to all your immigration records and assigned to you by the UAE immigration system. However, a Visa Number or a File Number is temporary and changes every time you receive a new visa or renew your residency.
Understanding the difference between the UID Number and the UAE Visa File Number is very important for every resident and visitor. The UID number remains constant for life, while the visa number changes with new visas. It can be challenging for you to navigate the Emirates immigration system with multiple numbers printed on your documents. Keep reading, as this blog will help you know everything about the two most important numbers.
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What is the UID Number in the UAE?
The Unified Identification Number (UID) is a unique code assigned to every expat upon their first entry into the UAE, whether as a tourist, resident, or for work. This number is permanent and stays the same for life, and is used by immigration authorities to track all your visa and residency records. This simply means that this number connects all your official records, like your visa status, Emirates ID details, medical test results, and immigration history.
What is the UAE Visa File Number?
The UAE visa file number is a unique reference number assigned to a single visa permit, which changes every time the visa is renewed or changed. This number is linked to your visa record in a specific emirate and is used to track your residency details, visa status, and related government processes. Unlike a Visa number, the UID never changes, even if you renew your residency or change sponsors.
UAE Visa Number VS UID Number: What Are the Key Differences?
Many people often get confused between the visa number and the UID number. You must know about both these numbers if you want to stay in the Emirates without any issues. Both numbers are mentioned in immigration documents and serve different functions and are used in different situations.
| Feature | UAE Visa File Number | UID Number |
| Definition | A number assigned to a specific visa issued to an individual. | A unique identification number assigned to a person. |
| Validity | Changes every time a new visa is issued. | Remains the same for the lifetime. |
| Purpose | Used to identify a particular visa document. Tracks the validity and details of a specific stay. | Used to track an individual’s record in the UAE system. It links all your records (visas, ID, health) to one profile. |
| Issued By | UAE Immigration Authorities | UAE Immigration Authorities |
| Length | Usually 7 to 9 digits | Usually 9 to 15 digits |
| Issuance | Generated upon approval of a specific visa application. | Generated upon approval of a specific visa application. |
| Where to Find | Printed on a visa page or an e-visa. | Found on visa, immigration records, and online portals. |
| Usage | Visa applications, renewals, cancellations | Government services, identity tracking, and visa history. |
| Permanence | Temporary; changes with every new visa. | Permanent; it never changes. |
Where Can You Find Your Visa Number and UID Number?
| Platform Type | Source | What You’ll Find |
| Physical Documents | E-Visa and Entry Permit | UID: At the top (Unified No).Visa No: In the “File” section. |
| Passport Stamp | Printed on the residency sticker (mostly for older or specific visa types). | |
| Digital Access | ICP Portal (Federal) | Access both by searching “File Validity” with your passport details. |
| GDRFA Portal (Dubai) | Use the “Unified Number Inquiry” for Dubai-specific records. | |
| Mobile Solutions | UAE Pass App | Digital version of your residency details, including both numbers. |
| GDRFA Dubai App | Specific to Dubai visa holders for quick ID and file lookups. | |
| ICP UAE App | Federal mobile access to your unified profile and visa status. |
You can find your UAE Visa File Number and UID Number through different documents and online platforms. You must know where to check these numbers to make visa-related tasks easier and faster.
- Residence Visa Document or E-Visa: The easiest place to locate these two numbers is the printed paper visa or the e-visa you received in your email. The UID Number is located in the top section and often labeled as UID or Unified Number. You can find your File Number below the UID number, which is a 7 to 9-digit-long, alphanumeric code.
- Passport Stamp: If you have an older stamped visa, you can find these numbers there. These numbers are printed on the sticker, usually towards the top right.
- Emirates ID: Your Emirates ID card doesn’t show your UAE Visa number directly. However, the UID number printed on your card is linked to your immigration records. Using this UID, you can find visa details online.
Also Read: Top 10 Business Setup Consultants in Dubai, UAE 2026
- Use the ICP/GDRFA Website: If you cannot find your documents, you can find these numbers using your passport details online. You need to visit the ICP website, select passport validity, and enter your details to find your UID and visa number. For a Dubai visa, you need to use the GDRFA Unified Number Inquiry Service and enter details like your passport number, nationality, and DOB to find these numbers.
- Mobile Apps: You can use government apps, like the ICP UAE app and the GDRFA Dubai app (if your visa is issued in Dubai), to check these numbers online. You can also check the UAE Pass app for quick access to your UID and Visa number details.
Note: As the UAE is continuously moving towards a paperless system, the UAE Pass and ICP are the most reliable ways to access these numbers instantly without needing a physical document.
Why are both numbers important in the UAE?
Both the UAE visa number and the UID number are important, as they help you manage your identity and visa records. Your Visa number is used for specific visa-related processes, but the UID helps track your overall immigration history.
The Importance of the UID Number (Your Permanent Identity)
- Emirates ID Application: You cannot apply for or renew your Emirates ID without a UID. The ID card is permanently connected to this number in the government system.
- Medical Records: Most government health centers, hospitals, and insurance providers use your UID to find your medical history. Even if you change your visa sponsor, UID helps you track your details.
- Consolidating Records: If you change jobs or switch from a tourist visa to a residency visa, the UID keeps all your history under one profile.
- Government Services: You can’t access immigration and public services without your UID number in the UAE. This helps authorities track your complete visa history.
The Importance of the Visa File Number (Your Current Status)
- Sponsorship Transitions: When you change jobs, your new employer needs your old visa number to cancel your previous visa and start your new one (change of status or cancellation).
- Renting Property (Ejari): You have to provide your visa number to register your tenancy contract and prove that you are a legal resident.
- Banking and Utilities: You need the UAE Visa File number to open bank accounts and set up services like DEWA/SEWA services. This number helps you verify your residency period.
- Travel and Re-entry: Immigration officers use this number to confirm that your current residency is active when you leave or enter the country.
- Visa Processing: You must provide your UAE Visa Number for visa applications, renewals, and cancellations.
Note: Both numbers may be required for ID processing and bank account setup. Moreover, both are used to verify your legal stay in the UAE.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
To ensure you have a smooth residency experience in 2026, you must avoid the following common mistakes that can result in application delays or fines:
- Confusing the UID with the Visa File Number: This mistake is very common. You must remember that the UID is for your identity, while the Visa Number is for your permission to stay. UID remains the same, while the other changes with every new visa.
- Thinking the UID Changes with a New Visa: Many residents think that they get a new UID when they switch jobs or renew their residency. This is wrong, as your UID is permanent. If you are assigned a new UID by mistake, you must apply for a UID Merger using the ICP portal to prevent legal issues.
- Using the Wrong Number in Government Forms: While entering your Visa Number, if you enter your UID, it will lead to automated rejections in government systems. So, it is better to always double-check if you are asked to enter a UID or a File Number.
- Ignoring Duplicate UIDs: If you have entered the UAE on multiple tourist visas before getting residency, you might have multiple UIDs. So, you must merge them to avoid a record mismatch and other issues.
UAE Visa Number VS UID Number: When Do You Need
Now that you know the main difference between UID and UAE Visa File Number, you must also know where you need them.
1. Job Applications & Labor Contracts
Which Number Do You Need? UID Number.
Your employer needs your UID to create your labor file in the MOHRE system. It links your new contract to your current immigration history.
2. Opening a Bank Account or Setting up Utilities (DEWA/SEWA)
Which Number Do You Need? Visa File Number.
Banks and utility providers need to confirm that your current residency is valid and active. They use the File Number to check your visa’s expiry date and ensure that you are a legal resident.
3. Visa Renewal or Cancellation
Which Number Do You Need? Visa File Number.
To renew or cancel a visa, the immigration department needs the specific File reference of the current visa you have.
4. Sponsoring Family Members
Which Number Do You Need? Both.
You will need your UID to identify yourself as the sponsor and your current UAE Visa File Number to prove you have the legal residency status required to sponsor others.
Let Start Any Business (SAB) Help You
Understanding the difference between a UAE visa File number and a UID number is important for managing your legal and residency status. Both numbers are important and are used for visa processing, government services, and identity verification. You must know where you can find them and how they are used to avoid confusion during important processes like visa applications, renewals, or official registrations.
With Start Any Business (SAB), you can get expert help for anything you need. Whether you are applying for a Golden Visa, hiring your first set of employees, opening a corporate bank account, or launching a business, our team can assist with everything. We ensure you don’t get confused with these two numbers and avoid any mistakes that can lead to delays and issues.
Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Free Zones in the UAE: Complete Guide 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on UAE Visa File Number VS UID Number
Is the UID number the same as the Emirates ID number?
The UID number is not the same as the Emirates ID number; UID is an immigration tracking number, while the Emirates ID number is a unique national identity number.
Does my UID number change if I get a new passport?
Your UID is linked to your identity in the government database and remains the same even if you renew or change your passport.
What should I do if I have two different UID numbers?
You must visit an ICP center or use their online portal to request a UID Merger to combine your immigration records into one.
Can I find my Visa Number on my Emirates ID?
You can’t find your Visa Number on the Emirates ID card, and you have to check your e-visa, the ICP, or GDRFA websites or mobile apps.
Can I check my UID number using only my name?
You can’t check your UID number by only providing your name. You need to enter details like your passport number, nationality, and DOB on the GDRFA or ICP websites.
