The Emirates ID Card, issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), is a crucial identification document for UAE citizens and residents alike. It serves as proof of identity and residency and includes the holder’s biometric details, such as fingerprints and photographs, alongside personal information like name, nationality, and date of birth.
Purposes of the Emirates ID Card
Proof of identification: The Emirates ID serves as a primary proof of identity and legal status for UAE residents. It includes the holder’s unique 15-digit identification number, photograph, digital signature, and biometric details such as fingerprints. This personal data is securely stored on the card’s electronic chip, enhancing security against fraud and identity theft.
Government services: The Emirates ID card is vital for accessing a variety of government services, including healthcare, education, and employment benefits.
Healthcare: The Emirates ID has become integrated with the healthcare system, replacing the need for separate health insurance cards. It allows residents to access medical services and insurance benefits across the UAE seamlessly.
Travel and Immigration: The card can be used for e-gate services at UAE airports, enabling faster immigration processing and eliminating the need for a passport stamp for residents. Additionally, it can be used for travel to other GCC countries without requiring a passport, under certain conditions.
Driving and Licensing: The Emirates ID is essential for obtaining a driving license in the UAE. It also serves as a form of identification when interacting with transportation authorities.
Access to Buildings and Facilities: You need an Emirates ID card to access certain buildings and secure facilities, including airports, government buildings, and some private institutions, reflecting its role as an official identity document.
Banking and Financial Services: The Emirates ID is required to open bank accounts, process financial transactions, and access other banking services. It also serves as a form of digital identification for financial institutions.
Pay for Fuel with Your Emirates ID: Did you know that at select petrol stations in the UAE, you can use your Emirates ID to pay for fuel? By registering for an Adnoc wallet and linking it to your Emirates ID, you can load funds and use the card to pay for fuel directly. This is a convenient way to make payments without needing to carry a credit card.
The Emirates ID card is mandatory for all UAE citizens and residents, and you’re required to hold your Emirates ID with you at all times. At the same time, there’s a digital version of the Emirates ID you can use in case the physical one is temporarily not available. Read our article to learn how to acquire an E-version of the Emirates ID card.
How to get an E-version of your Emirates ID card
As previously mentioned, your Emirates ID card is an essential document that is required to be held around wherever you go. However, in cases where the identification card is lost, damaged, or stolen, immediate action is required to report the incident to the ICP and apply for a new card.
The card also has an expiry date and requires renewal within 30 days of its expiry, otherwise, you may face a fine of AED 20 per day, which can go up to a maximum of AED 1000. However, certain individuals may be eligible for exemptions from late renewal fines under specific conditions, such as extended absence from the UAE or medical issues.
While you wait for your new card to be issued, you can still use the electronic version which you can acquire in various ways:
- UAE Pass app:
The UAE Pass is a digital identity solution that allows residents and citizens to access various government services online without the need to physically visit government offices. The app offers many government services under one platform, enabling users to perform tasks like accessing official documents, paying bills, applying for permits, among many others.
You can download the UAE Pass app from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. To register, simply enter your Emirates ID number, and the app will ask you to confirm your identity through facial recognition.
Now you’ll go through the following steps:- Select the category of Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security
- Click on Emirates ID Card
- Complete the face scan.
- Download the digital Emirates ID
In addition to the existing UAE Pass app features, users can now extend or terminate entry permits, including Green and Golden visas, directly via their personal ICP accounts or UAE Pass. This enhancement simplifies access to services while awaiting a new card
- ICP mobile app:
To get an E-version of your Emirates ID card via the ICP mobile app all you have to do is the following:- Sign in to the UAEICP app via your UAE Pass account.
- Select the Emirates ID option.
- Select your name and view your ID.
- Download your ID card on your device.
- QR Code:
Another way to benefit from the E-version of your Emirates ID is by generating a QR or Quick Response code from the UAEICP app which can be used for transactions and processes that require the use of the Emirates ID card.
To get the QR Code:- Select the Emirates ID QR Code option on the ICP mobile app.
- Select personal information or mobile number.
- After you have successfully submitted your details, you will receive a QR code.
How SPC Free Zone Can Help You?
When it comes to setting up a business in the UAE, there’s no reason to do it alone. SPC Free Zone offers a wide range of support services to suit your business needs, from the start of your journey and beyond. Whether you’re looking to get a UAE residency visa or need to apply for your Emirates ID card, we can help.
Our VIP Medical and Emirates ID Assistance service facilitates the process of applying for a new Emirates ID card or renewing your expired one, as well as visa services. We provide a full range of VIP services from physical examination to the collection of test results and accompanying you to the Emirates ID centre, where we complete all documentation as well as assist with the biometrics process. We will also collect your Emirates ID on your behalf.
Our support services also include spouse and children’s visa assistance, documentation, corporate bank assistance, and much more. With SPC Free Zone, you can also choose from more than 2,000 business activities and take advantage of up to 20 visa quotas and competitive business setup packages. Our customers who want to set up a business in Sharjah Free Zones benefit from a whole string of benefits like zero paid-up share capital. With immigration services on-site, you can also get your license issued in less than 45 minutes, and your UAE residency visa in 5 working days.
Are you planning for a business setup in Dubai, UAE, or anywhere in the UAE? Contact our team of experts and get your business license in just 45 minutes!
One Reply to “A UAE Guide: How To Get An E-Version of Your Emirates ID”
I would like to obtain information on the ID card process.