Before you can even think about getting an Emirates ID, you need to have your UAE residency visa sorted. Once that’s in hand, the process involves filling out an application online or at a typing centre, and then heading to an appointment for your biometrics.
This card isn't just a piece of plastic; it's the most crucial document you'll carry as a resident, serving as your go-to identification for almost everything you do here.
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Your Essential Guide to the Emirates ID
Think of the Emirates ID as your key to life in the UAE. It's the official, mandatory ID for every single person living here, from newborn babies to long-term expatriates. Trying to get by without one is practically impossible.
You'll find yourself needing it for all sorts of everyday tasks:
- Government Services: From a visit to a government hospital to enrolling your kids in school.
- Financial Transactions: You can't open a bank account, get a loan, or even set up your home internet without it.
- Legal Formalities: It's essential when signing your tenancy contract or registering a car.
The process is pretty straightforward once you know the steps. You’ll start by getting your documents in order, then submit your application. After that, you'll book a time to give your fingerprints and have your photo taken. The last step is the best one: receiving your physical card in the mail.
You can kick off the process and find official details on the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website.
The ICP portal is the central hub for everything related to your identity and citizenship here, from visa applications to ID renewals. It's a site you'll get very familiar with.
Just to be clear, this card is a legal requirement. Federal Law No. 9 of 2006 mandates that every citizen and resident must have and carry their Emirates ID. This smart card securely holds your personal details, biometric data, and a unique 15-digit identity number, making it a vital part of the UAE's modern infrastructure. You can learn more about the legal framework of the Emirates national identity card on the official government portal.
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a quick breakdown of the key differences for UAE citizens and expatriate residents.
Emirates ID Application At a Glance
| Category | UAE Citizen | Expatriate Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | All UAE nationals, including newborns | All expatriates with a valid residency visa |
| Validity Period | 5 or 10 years | Linked to the validity of the residency visa |
| Application Fee | AED 100 (5 years), AED 200 (10 years) | AED 100 per year of visa validity |
| Biometrics | Required once from age 15 | Required for all new applicants from age 15 |
This table should help you quickly see where you fit in and what to expect from the process. While the core steps are similar, the validity and costs are tied directly to your residency status.
Getting Your Paperwork in Order: What You'll Need
Honestly, the secret to a painless Emirates ID application is all in the prep work. Before you touch an application form, getting your documents lined up perfectly will save you from the kind of headaches and delays that trip up so many people.
Think of it as setting up your workspace before a big project. A bit of organisation now means the rest of the process will flow smoothly. This is probably the most important part of getting your Emirates ID without any setbacks.
The Essentials for Every Applicant
No matter who you are, there are a few core documents you absolutely must have. First, check your original passport—it needs to have at least six months of validity left. If it doesn't, the system will reject your application flat out. You'll also need either your valid UAE residency visa or the entry permit you received when you first arrived.
Your passport photo is another classic stumbling block. It has to be a recent, high-quality picture, sized 4.5cm x 3.5cm, shot against a perfectly plain white background. Don't smile or wear glasses; the system is incredibly strict about this.
Pro Tip: Don't try to use an old or low-resolution photo. I've seen applications get kicked back just for this. The automated systems will reject unclear images, which means you'll have to start all over again and book another biometrics appointment.
Extra Documents for Family and Dependents
Applying for your children or another family member? You'll need a bit more paperwork to prove your relationship. Make sure you have the following ready:
- Original Birth Certificate: This is a big one. It needs to be officially attested by both the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the embassy of your home country.
- Sponsor's Passport and Visa: A clear copy of the sponsor's passport and their current residency visa is mandatory.
- Sponsor's Emirates ID: You'll also need to present the sponsor's original, physical Emirates ID card.
Having these documents ready to go, and correctly attested, is the key to getting a dependent's application approved without a hitch.
Getting Your Emirates ID Application Started
Alright, you've got all your paperwork sorted. Now for the main event: applying for your Emirates ID. The good news is that the UAE has made this process incredibly straightforward, with a focus on online submission. It's hands-down the fastest way to get the ball rolling.
Your First Step: The Online Form
You'll want to head over to the official website for the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or download their smart app. This is where you'll find the application form. Take your time filling it out, making sure every detail is correct, and upload clear digital copies of your documents.
Not comfortable with the online system? No problem. You can always visit an accredited typing centre. The staff there handle these applications day in and day out, so they can fill everything out for you and minimise any chance of mistakes.
The Biometrics Appointment
Once your initial application is submitted and gets the green light, you’ll get an SMS message prompting you to book an appointment for your biometrics. This is a crucial step for everyone aged 15 and older. It’s a quick process where they take your fingerprints and a photo for the ID card.
One of the great things for families is that children under 15 are completely exempt from the biometrics step. Their application moves forward right after the online submission, which really simplifies things.
Here's a look at an applicant kicking off the process online, which is exactly where you'll start.
This just shows how easy it is to begin your application from virtually anywhere.
A Little Insider Advice: To sidestep the biggest crowds, try to book your biometrics appointment for mid-morning on a weekday. The service centres get absolutely packed first thing in the morning and right after the lunch rush.
When you go to your appointment, make sure you have your original passport and either your entry permit or residency visa with you. They won't accept copies. The scale of this operation is pretty impressive; back at the end of 2011, the authority had already registered around 5.2 million people, with daily registrations hitting nearly 23,000. You can read more about the Emirates ID registration history on the official ICP website.
Keeping an Eye on Your Application
After your biometrics are done, you don't have to just sit and wait. The ICP website has a great tracking portal. Just pop in your application number (often called the PRAN), and you can see exactly where your ID is in the process—from being printed to being sent out for delivery. It’s a handy tool that takes all the guesswork out of knowing when to expect your new card.
What to Expect with Fees, Timelines, and Card Delivery
So, you’ve submitted your forms and had your biometrics taken. Now comes the final stretch: paying the fees, waiting for the card to be printed, and finally getting it in your hands.
The main cost of the Emirates ID is directly tied to how long your residency visa is valid. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) charges AED 100 for every year of validity. So, if you're on a two-year visa, you're looking at AED 200 for the card itself.
On top of that, there are a few standard service fees. When all is said and done, a two-year visa holder can expect the total to be around AED 370. If you’re really in a bind and need the card immediately, there's an urgent service available for an extra AED 150. It’s a lifesaver, as it gets the card processed and ready within 24 hours.
Breakdown of Emirates ID Fees
Here’s a clear look at how the costs are structured. It helps to see exactly what you’re paying for when you apply for or renew your card.
| Service | Fee (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Card Issuance Fee | 100 per year of visa validity | The core fee is calculated based on how long your visa is issued for. |
| Service Fees | 40 | This is a standard administrative fee for handling the application. |
| Typing Centre Fee | 30 | You'll pay this if you get help from a typing centre to fill out your form. |
| Urgent Service | 150 | A premium, optional fee if you need your card in a real hurry (within 24 hours). |
Remember, these fees are pretty standard, but it’s always good to confirm the final amount at the time of your application.
From Application to Your Wallet
Once everything is submitted, the waiting game begins, but it’s usually not too long. The typical turnaround time is about five to ten working days. You’ll know things are moving when you get an SMS from the ICP saying your card has been printed and is on its way.
From there, Emirates Post takes over. They are the official partner for getting the card to you. You'll get another text from them with tracking details, so you can follow its journey. You can also use your application number on the ICP website to check the status yourself. The card will either be delivered straight to your door or sent to a local post office for you to collect.
A Quick Word of Advice: Double-check—and then triple-check—that the mobile number on your application is correct. Seriously. Almost every notification, from the ICP alert to the final delivery coordination, happens via SMS. A simple typo in your phone number is one of the most common and frustrating reasons for delays.
Need More Than Just an Emirates ID?
Getting your Emirates ID is often just one piece of a much bigger puzzle. For many, it’s the first step towards a larger goal, like launching a new business or settling into a long-term life in the UAE. This is where things can get complicated, and where having an expert in your corner makes all the difference.
We specialise in taking the stress out of the entire process, from getting your company registered to the final visa stamp in your passport. Our team manages every detail for both mainland and freezone company formation across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. We handle the trade licences, the visa applications, and all the paperwork, making sure everything is perfectly compliant with local laws.
Your Go-To Partner for Setting Up in the UAE
Think of us as your on-the-ground support team. While you're busy planning your business launch, we’re handling the administrative legwork. Our goal is to provide practical, cost-effective solutions that are built around your specific business needs.
We're here to help international entrepreneurs make the most of the UAE's incredible tax benefits. We take care of the red tape so you can focus on what you do best: growing your business.
And you're never on your own. With our 24/7 support, you can always get a straight answer when you need it. We're here to offer clarity and guidance at every single stage.
Let our specialists make your business setup smooth and simple. For a free chat about how we can help you get your Emirates ID as part of your new venture, WhatsApp us today or give us a call at +971-52 923 1246.
Your Top Emirates ID Questions Answered
Going through the Emirates ID process for the first time? It's completely normal to have a few questions. Based on our experience helping countless clients, here are straightforward answers to the things people ask most often.
What if I Lose or Damage My Card?
It happens. The first thing you need to do is report it immediately to the nearest ICP customer happiness centre. This is a crucial step to get the card deactivated and prevent any misuse. Once that's done, you can apply for a replacement, which will involve paying a fee to get a new card issued.
How Long is an Emirates ID Valid For?
This is probably the most common question we get, and the answer depends on your status.
If you're an expatriate resident, the validity of your Emirates ID is tied directly to your residency visa. So, if you have a two-year visa, your ID will also be valid for two years. It’s that simple.
For UAE and GCC citizens, the cards have a longer lifespan, typically valid for five or ten years before needing renewal.
The Future of Your ID: What’s Coming Next?
The UAE is always pushing forward with technology, and the Emirates ID is no exception. A major shift is on the horizon with the planned rollout of a facial recognition-based digital identity system, expected by 2025.
This new biometric system aims to let residents use their smartphones to digitally verify their identity, which could eventually mean you won't need to carry the physical card for most day-to-day transactions. It’s all part of the UAE's vision for a more integrated digital life. If you're curious, you can read more about the UAE's upcoming facial recognition system.
Juggling your Emirates ID application on top of a business setup and visa processing can feel overwhelming. Let the specialists at 365 DAY PRO Corporate Service Provider LLC handle the complexities for you. We provide affordable, expert solutions for mainland and freezone company formation, making sure you can take full advantage of all UAE tax benefits.
📞 Call Us Now: +971-52 923 1246
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