The United Arab Emirates government has officially identified four types of ID cards that function as residence permits for foreign representatives residing and working in the country. The announcement, published on the official UAE government website, clarifies the legal status of these cards and the obligations attached to them.
What Are the Four Qualifying ID Cards?
According to the UAE government, the four categories of ID cards that serve as residence permits are:
- Diplomatic ID card
- Consular ID card
- International organisations ID card
- Special ID card
Each of these cards is issued to foreign representatives and carries legal weight as a residence document within the UAE. The cards are described as formal requests for issuance directed to the relevant ministry, and holding one comes with specific obligations at the border.
Official Statement on Card Usage
The UAE government website states: "Request for the issuance of a card (diplomatic, consular, international organizations, special), which is considered a residence permit for its holder, and must be presented at the country's airports upon arrival and departure. The mission must also return it to the ministry upon final departure from the country."
This means that holders of any of the four cards are required to show them whenever they enter or leave the UAE through its airports. Additionally, the foreign mission is responsible for returning the card to the ministry once the cardholder permanently leaves the country.
Context: UAE Work Permit Options
This development follows the UAE government's recent publication of a complete list of 13 work permits available to foreign nationals seeking to work in the country. The list covers various categories, including permits for freelancers, students, private teachers, Golden Visa holders, part-time workers, and foreigners seeking temporary employment.
The listing of these four ID cards as residence permits reinforces the UAE's structured approach to managing foreign representatives, ensuring clear documentation and compliance at all points of entry and exit.
