All You Need to Know About Emirates ID Card

What is the Emirates ID card?

The Emirates ID Card is an identification card that the UAE government issues to its citizens and residents as proof of identity and residency status in the country. The Emirates ID card is issued by the Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA); the governmental entity responsible for managing the national identity system in the UAE, and it includes its holder’s biometric information such as his/her photo, fingerprint, and signature, as well as personal details such as name, date of birth, nationality, and residency status.

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 Emirates ID card are:  

Proof of identification: The Emirates ID card is used as a form of identification in the UAE. The card consists of a smart chip with the holder’s name, photograph, signature, and other essential personal information.

Government services: The Emirates ID card allows you to access several government services such as healthcare, education, and employment services.

Travel: The Emirates ID card can be used to travel to other GCC countries, for a specific category of travelers, without the need for a passport.

Voting: The Emirates ID card is required for voting in the UAE elections.

Driving: You need an Emirates ID to obtain a driving license in the UAE.

Access to buildings and facilities: The Emirates ID card is used for entering some places and facilities such as airports, government buildings, and others.

Banking and financial services: You need an Emirates ID card for opening bank accounts and access other financial services in the UAE.

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

Steps to apply to the Emirates ID

The process of applying for the Emirates ID card is relatively simple. You can apply for your Emirates ID by yourself through EIDA centers and typing offices or seek a professional service, like the Support Services provided at SPC Free Zone, the saves you time and effort. Here are the steps of applying for the Emirates ID card:

The application form: Fill out the application with accurate information. The application is available on the official website of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA), Customer Happiness Centers, or any accredited typing center.

Submit the required documents: You will need to submit the following documents along with your application form:

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

Visit the Emirates ID center: Next, you will need to visit one of ICP’s service centers to provide your biometric data such as your fingerprints and have your photograph taken. This step is specifically required if you are applying for an Emirates ID card for the first time.

Collect your Emirates ID card: Once your application has been processed and approved you can track the status of your ID card on the ICP website using your application number. You will receive a notification via SMS or email to collect your Emirates ID from the Emirates Post offices mentioned in your application within 90 days.

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.

You can apply for the ID card renewal service at the website of ICP, through ICP App, or at an accredited typing center.

After filling out the form and submitting the required documents, you need to pay the renewal fees. The Emirates ID card renewal cost depends on the Emirates ID’s validity and the center 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 centers to provide biometrics.

When the process is complete, you’ll receive an SMS informing 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 center, 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 1,500 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 and 0% corporate and personal income tax. 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 45 minutes!