In efforts further facilitate visa and residence application process in Free zone jurisdictions, the government of UAE has introduced a new online registration mechanism in line with UAE Vision 2021, automating every procedure on digital platforms. The purpose behind E-channel is to combine all application services such as establishment card, employment visa, residence visa and renewal process for companies into a one stop channel that looks after all of them.
Launched by General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) of the Ministry of Interiors, UAE, E-channel aims to promote services that improve the application process for businesses and thus reducing the turn-around time for starting a new business in UAE.
To start using E-channel users can apply through the department portal echannels.moi.gov.ae or initiate application through visit at any of the authorized typing centres or consultancies. Applicants can view and locate all authorized typing centers that are registered with the official GDRFA portal.
The facility combines different visa application services that will save countless time of employees and their families when registering for visas in the UAE. New employees who are not familiar with UAE Visa and Immigration laws and feel reluctant to visit typing centers can contact visa consultants in UAE to walk them through the application process.
The E-channel registration fee structure for Establishment Card is as follows
| Fees (AED) | Ajman freezone | UAQ freezone | Creative City, Fujairah | Sharjah Media City |
| Guarantee fees (refundable) | 5,100 | 5,000 | 5,025 | 5,000 |
| Registration fees | 2,100 | 2,100 | 2,000 | 2,150 |
| Other fees | 300 | |||
| Total | 7,200 | 7,100 | 7,325 | 7,150 |
| Renewal fees | 1,100 | 1,100 | To be declared | 1,150 |
