Emirates ID Card – A Complete Guide 2024

What is the Emirates ID card?

The Emirates ID is an essential official document issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). It serves as both an ID and proof of residency for all UAE citizens and residents. It contains essential personal data, including the cardholder’s photograph, signature, fingerprint, and other important details such as name, date of birth, nationality, and residency status. This card is also embedded with a smart chip that securely stores biometric and other critical information.

The Emirates ID card is mandatory for all UAE citizens and residents, and it is required for a variety of purposes and services. Some of the uses of the UAE ID are:  

Identification and Proof of Residency: The Emirates ID acts as the primary proof of identity and residency in the UAE. It is a must-have for all official interactions within the country.

Access to Government Services: This card is needed to access various government services, including healthcare, educational benefits, and employment-related services.

Travel within GCC: UAE citizens can use their Emirates ID to travel to other GCC countries without the need for a passport, as long as they meet the requirements for travel. However, residents still need their passport for international travel.

Voter Registration and Voting: To participate in federal and local elections, UAE nationals must use their Emirates ID.

Driving License and Other Services: An Emirates ID is required for obtaining a driving license and is necessary for opening bank accounts, signing legal documents, and other essential services.

Access to Private and Public Buildings: Many government and corporate buildings require an Emirates ID for entry, including certain private sector establishments and restricted areas.

Read more: How to Open a Business Bank Account in the UAE for Entrepreneurs

Steps to Apply for an Emirates ID

The process of applying for the UAE Emirates ID card is quite straightforward. You can apply for your Emirates ID online and pay the required fees either directly through ICP service centres, or accredited typing centres.

Here’s a breakdown of how to apply for your Emirates ID:

1. Complete the Application Form:

You can fill out the Emirates ID application form online on the  Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) website. You’ll need to provide accurate information and pay the Emirates ID fees. The application is also available at Customer Happiness Centres, through accredited typing centres, or you may seek professional services, such as the support services provided at SPC Free Zone, which can save you time and effort. 

2. Submit the Required Documents

Ensure you have the following documents ready and submit them along with your application:

• A copy of your passport and UAE residency.
• Passport-size photos.
• A copy of your Emirates ID application form.

3. Visit the Emirates ID Centre

After submitting your application, you will need to visit one of the ICP’s service centres to provide your biometric data, such as your fingerprints and have your photograph taken. This step is required if you are applying for an Emirates ID for the first time.

4. Track Your Emirates ID Status

Once your application is processed, you can track your Emirates ID card status online. Use the ICP website to check the status of your application using the application number. Once your Emirates ID card is ready, you will receive an SMS or email notification indicating that it’s available for pickup at the Emirates Post office listed in your application. The card can be collected within 90 days from the notification date.

If you require further guidance on how to get Emirates ID, how to check your new Emirates ID status, how to check Emirates ID status with passport number and Emirates ID number, or how to track Emirates ID, contact our experts for more assistance.

Also Read: How To Get An E-Version of Your Emirates ID in UAE

How to renew your Emirates ID card

As a UAE resident, you need to renew your Emirates ID card within 30 days of its expiry date, otherwise, you may face a fine of AED 20 per day, which can go up to a maximum of AED 1000, that’s why you have to do the emirates ID validity check and check the status of your Emirates ID. You may apply for renewal through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) website, the ICP app, or at accredited typing centres.

After filling out the form and submitting the required documents, you need to pay the renewal fees, and following that you can do your Emirates ID online check. The digital Emirates ID card renewal cost depends on the Emirates ID’s validity and the centre where you are completing the process. You will then receive an SMS informing you of the application status.

In some cases, an applicant may be asked to visit one of ICP’s service centres or Emirates ID office to provide biometrics.

When the process is complete, you can do the Emirates ID status tracking. You’ll receive an SMS notifying you to collect your renewed Emirates ID card from the post office.

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 many 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. Additionally, we offer efficient on-site immigration services to streamline your process even further. You can now obtain your business license in just 3 minutes with our innovative AI-powered solution, and secure your UAE residency visa within 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 fast and easy!

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