1. The Process: “Lodgement First, Fingers Second”
You cannot walk into VFS Global without an appointment and a Biometrics Requirement Letter.
- Lodge Online: Submit your visa via ImmiAccount.
- Receive Letter: You will instantly receive a PDF letter titled “Requirement to provide personal identifiers (biometrics).”
- Book VFS: Use the VFS Global website to book a slot in either Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
- Attend: Your fingerprints and a digital photograph will be captured. No physical ink is used.
2. VFS Global Locations & Business Hours (2026)
| Feature | VFS Global Dubai | VFS Global Abu Dhabi |
| Address | Wafi Mall, First Floor, Phase 5- Horus, Umm Hurrair 2, Dubai | Level B2 (Lower Ground), The Mall, World Trade Centre, Khalifa Bin Zayed St, Abu Dhabi |
| Operating Days | Monday to Friday | Monday to Friday |
| Business Hours | 09:00 – 16:00 | 09:00 – 16:00 |
| Contact Number | +971 4 205 5900 | +971 4 205 5900 |
3. 2026 Fees & Payment
As of February 2026, the service fees for biometric collection in the UAE are:
- Standard Biometric Fee: AED 117.40 (Inclusive of VAT).
- Payment Mode: Payment is usually made at the center via Credit/Debit card. Cash is accepted but cards are preferred for faster processing.
- Walk-in Fee (No Appointment): AED 303.00. Avoid this by booking online; walk-ins are only accommodated if there is a gap in the schedule.
4. The Student’s “VFS Toolkit” (What to Bring)
Failure to bring these exact documents may result in your appointment being cancelled:
- [ ] Original Passport: Must be valid and the same one used for your visa application.
- [ ] Biometrics Requirement Letter: A printed copy or a clear digital copy on your phone.
- [ ] Appointment Confirmation: The email/PDF sent by VFS after booking.
- [ ] For Minors (Under 18): Must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Bring your birth certificate and the parent’s ID.
5. Pro-Tips for a Smooth Appointment
- Hands & Face: Ensure your fingertips are free from henna (Mehndi), cuts, or bandages, as these can fail the scanner. For the photo, your face must be clearly visible (no tinted glasses or large headgear unless for religious reasons).
- Timing: Arrive 15 minutes early. If you are more than 10 minutes late, VFS may mark you as a “No Show,” and you’ll have to wait 24 hours to re-book.
- Digital Assistance: If you struggled with your ImmiAccount, VFS offers a Digital Assistance service (approx. AED 43) where they help you upload any missing documents during your visit.
6. Summary Checklist
- [ ] Download the Biometrics Letter from ImmiAccount.
- [ ] Schedule your appointment within 3 days of lodging your visa.
- [ ] Verify that the name on your Biometrics Letter matches your passport exactly.
