ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has implemented new visa regulations that permit Pakistani residents and other international residents to return to the country after their visa expiration.
The new decision from the UAE government allows people whose residency visas have lapsed to enter the country without obtaining another visa.
The Federal Authority for Identity Citizenship Customs Port Security has officially approved the decision.
The spokesperson explained that the new directive aims to help residents who became stuck outside the country return to the UAE without any legal issues that would arise from their previous residency status.
UK eases visa application process for Pakistani visitors
Earlier, the British High Commission in Islamabad has announced that Pakistani visitors to the United Kingdom can now use a new eVisa system, eliminating the need for visa stickers in passports.
According to the announcement published on 25 February 2026, travellers, including tourists will continue to submit visa applications online and attend a visa application centre to provide biometric data. However, successful applicants will now receive a digital record of their immigration status through an eVisa, accessible via an online UK Visas and Immigration account.
Under the new system, applicants will no longer need to revisit the visa application centre to collect their passports after processing. Instead, they can retain their passports following their biometric appointment, as visa confirmation will be sent electronically.
The High Commission stated that eVisas offer a more secure method of managing immigration status while reducing the risk of lost or damaged documents. Applicants can generate a share code to prove their visa status at UK borders and when required elsewhere. Officials clarified that there are no changes to visa processing times, eligibility criteria, or conditions.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott welcomed the development, describing it as a significant step forward for Pakistanis travelling to the UK for tourism, family visits, or business engagements. She said the new system saves time and simplifies the process of demonstrating visa status.
Applicants have been strongly advised to apply directly through the official UK government website and avoid using visa agents. The High Commission emphasised that gov.uk remains the only trusted source of information.
The statement added that eVisas were successfully introduced last year for students and work visa holders, with thousands already using the system at UK airports. Existing sticker visas remain valid and unaffected by the latest changes.
