The Emirates ID is a legal requirement for all UAE citizens and residents, including newborn babies, serving as proof of identity and residency. Whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing, or replacing your Emirates ID, keeping track of the application status is important to ensure timely updates and actions. This article guides you through the various methods to check the status of your Emirates ID application by logging onto the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security’s (ICP) website.
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How to Check Your Emirates ID Status
Using the ICP Portal
To check the status of your Emirates ID card, click on this link and enter your Application Number (PRAN) or your Emirates ID Number (for Renewal / Replacement Applications).
Using the ICP Portal #2
Alternatively, you can check the status of your Emirates ID by visiting a different portal on the ICP Smart Services’ website. Once you arrive at the site, you’ll find a “Quick Search” feature. Here’s how you can use it:
- Navigate to the Quick Search box.
- Enter your application number in the provided field.
- Select the “I am not a robot” checkbox.
- Click on the inquiry button.
Your Emirates ID status will then be displayed on your screen.
Using the ICP App
To check the status of your Emirates ID using the ICP app, follow these steps for a straightforward and efficient process:
- Open the ICP app on your mobile device. If you haven’t already downloaded it, you can find it in your device’s app store.
- Once the app is open, navigate to the “Quick Search” function.
- Enter your application number in the designated field.
- Tap on the checkbox to confirm that you are not a robot.
- Press the inquiry button.
Your Emirates ID status will be displayed directly on your device through the app. This method offers a convenient way to access your ID information anytime and anywhere.
What is an Emirates ID Used For?
The Emirates ID is a mandatory document for both citizens and residents of the UAE, serving multiple crucial roles:
- Identification: The primary role of the Emirates ID is to serve as a legal personal identity document for UAE residents and citizens throughout their stay in the UAE.
- Access to Government Services: It’s used to access various government services, healthcare registration, and emergency services. The Emirates ID is increasingly integrated with digital government applications, allowing for seamless access to e-government services and digital signatures.
- Voting: UAE nationals use it to vote in the elections of the Federal National Council.
- Financial Transactions: It is necessary for opening bank accounts, completing transactions, and obtaining loans.
- Employment and Legal Use: The ID is required for employment records and legal transactions and processes.
- Travel: Citizens of the UAE can use their Emirates ID at GCC country borders as a travel document.
- Healthcare and Insurance Verification: The Emirates ID is used to verify individuals’ eligibility and coverage under the UAE’s health insurance system and is required when accessing medical services.
- Education: Essential for enrolment in educational institutions, the ID serves as proof of identity and residency status for students.
- Property Transactions: Crucial for managing property transactions such as renting or buying property, and commonly requested by real estate agencies and landlords.
- Telecommunications Services: Required when applying for or changing telecommunications services, including opening new accounts or transferring service providers.
- Public Library Access: Functions as a library card in various public and university libraries across the UAE, facilitating access to educational and recreational resources.
- Security Enhancements: The ID features an embedded smart chip that stores biometric data, enhancing security and providing authentication across various secure platforms.
Every individual in the UAE, including UAE nationals, GCC nationals, and expatriate residents, must have a valid Emirates ID card and regularly check its status. The Emirates ID is required for any personal or professional activities conducted throughout the United Arab Emirates, including Abu Dhabi and Free Zone regions such as Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
Legal Implications of Not Having a Valid Emirates ID: Not possessing a valid Emirates ID can lead to penalties, restricted access to services, and difficulties in official and legal procedures, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a current and valid ID.
Components of an Emirates ID
The Emirates ID card includes personal details such as your full name, nationality, date of birth, and photo. It also contains advanced electronic features such as biometric data, and a digital signature, and is equipped with an electronic chip that stores personal data securely.
How Do I Apply For an Emirates ID to Gain UAE Residency?
Applying for an Emirates ID is a crucial step in legitimising your residency in the UAE. Below, we outline the process from entry permit to the final visa stamping, and how these steps integrate with the Emirates ID application.
1. Apply for an Entry Permit
First, you must apply for an entry permit, as this is a prerequisite to applying for a residency visa. Entry permits are generally issued for business owners who have established a business in the UAE and for their employees, however, there are many other ways to receive an entry visa. An entry permit is an electronic document linked to your residence visa and is valid for 60 days. During this period, it is mandatory to undergo a medical check and apply for your Emirates ID. If you are applying for a Golden Visa, here at Virtuzone we will complete this entire process for you. Otherwise, you can apply for your entry permit via Amer 24/7.
2. Complete Medical Check
Once your entry permit is issued, a compulsory medical check must be conducted at any Preventive Medicine Center. This check includes screenings for AIDS, Hepatitis B, and Tuberculosis. A clean bill of health allows you to proceed with your visa application. However, if tests indicate the presence of any of these diseases, further examinations are undertaken. A positive result for any serious health condition results in the denial of the UAE resident visa.
Medical Checkup Costs with Amer 24/7:
AED 382.50 (Normal 24hrs)
AED 812.50 (VIP 06 Hours)
AED 812.50 (VVIP 02 Hours)
3. Apply for UAE Residence Visa
Once your medical check is cleared, apply for your UAE residence visa. This involves submitting additional documentation, possibly including proof of employment or sponsorship in the UAE, and waiting for visa approval.
4. Apply for Emirates ID
Once you have received your residency visa, you now need to apply for your Emirates ID. Follow this direct link to the ICP’s website where you can begin your application. This platform allows you to fill out the initial application, which requires you to fill out your personal details and upload necessary documents such as your birth certificate, passport and photograph on a white background (4.5cm x 3.5cm).
Please note you may be required to take these original documents with you to any Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship Office—which is often located next to Preventive Medicine Centers, as they may need to verify them against the information provided online.
5. Pay Application Fees
Next, you will need to pay the application fees. The list of fees is listed below under the heading ‘How Much Will My Emirates ID Cost?’.
6. Submit Biometric Data
Visit a designated Emirates ID centre to submit your biometric data, including fingerprints and a photograph. This information is stored for future verifications, eliminating the need for repeated submissions at the time of renewal.
7. Recieve Emirates ID Card
You will receive an SMS or email notification to collect your Emirates ID from the designated post office or you can track its delivery through Emirates Post. Ensure that your Emirates ID validity matches the duration of your visa to maintain consistency in your legal documentation. Read this article for more information on visa renewal in Dubai.
Keep in mind that the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) offers priority services for people of determination and senior citizens.
When Will I Receive My Emirates ID Card?
You should receive your ID card 5 days after your visa is stamped into your passport.
For those needing their Emirates ID more urgently, the ICP offers a fast-track service through their website for an additional AED 150. This service guarantees that the Emirates ID card will be ready within 24 hours after the biometric data are submitted. This service needs to be completed at an ICP Customer Happiness Center, which includes Al Jazeera and Khalifa City in Abu Dhabi, Al Barsha, Al Rashidiya, and Karama in Dubai, among others.
Unfortunately, for expatriate residents who are not GCC nationals, urgent service is available only when replacing their identity cards. This is because the issuance or renewal of identity cards requires verification of residency and associated processes.
How Much Will My Emirates ID Cost?
The cost of your Emirates ID card can be seen in the table below:
| Applicant Type | Card Issuance Fee (5 years) | Card Issuance Fee (10 years, UAE Nationals Only) | Service Fee | Typing Center Fee | Urgent Service Fee |
| UAE Nationals | AED 100 | AED 200 | AED 50 | AED 30 | AED 150 |
| GCC Nationals | AED 100 | N/A | AED 150 | AED 30 | AED 150 |
| Expatriates | AED 100 | N/A | AED 150 | AED 30 | AED 150 |
Renewing Your Emirates ID Card
You can renew your Emirates ID card up to six months before the expiry date. However, once your ID has expired, the government offers a 30-day grace period for renewal. During this period, you will receive SMS reminders.
Be mindful that UAE residence visa holders can only apply for renewal once their residence visa has been renewed or reissued.
How to Renew Your Emirates ID Card
1. Visit ICP’s Website
To renew your Emirates ID card, you must visit the ICP Smart Services’ website, which you can do by clicking on this link. Start by clicking ‘Start service’ and entering your existing Emirates ID details.
2. Update Your Documents
Update any personal details if necessary and upload required documents, typically your passport copy and current Emirates ID.
3. Pay the Fees
Pay the renewal fees online. These fees vary depending on the validity period you choose for your new ID. See the table below for fees.
4. Submit Biometric Data (unlikely)
It is unlikely, however, you may need to visit an Emirates ID centre to update your biometrics. This step is usually only needed for significant changes in biometric data or quality improvements.
5. Collect Your New Emirates ID Card
After your application is processed, you’ll receive an SMS or email notification. You can collect your new Emirates ID from the designated post office or opt for delivery via Emirates Post.
As mentioned earlier, there is the option of the express ID replacement service on the ICP website if you need your card back within 24 hours (for an additional AED 150.
Emirates ID Card Renewal Fees
| Applicant Type | Card Issuance Fee (5 years) | Card Issuance Fee (10 years, UAE nationals only) | Service Fee | Typing Centre Fee | Urgent Service Fee |
| UAE Nationals | AED 100 | AED 200 | AED 40 | AED 30 | AED 150 |
| GCC Nationals | AED 100 | N/A | AED 40 | AED 30 | AED 150 |
| Expatriates | AED 100 | N/A | AED 40 | AED 30 | AED 150 |
What Happens If I Forget to Renew My Emirates ID Card?
After 30 days, late renewal fines of AED 20/day will apply (the maximum fine is 1000 AED). To check for fines, visit the Abu Dhabi Police official website and click on ‘public services’.
However, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security offers exemptions from late fines for people of determination and senior citizens.
How Long Is My Emirates ID Card Valid For?
The validity of your Emirates ID card depends significantly on your residency status in the UAE.
For UAE Residents:
For example, the validity of an Emirates ID for expatriate residents aligns with the duration of their residency visa. Typically, this is between one and three years. Once the residency visa is renewed, the Emirates ID must also be renewed to stay valid. For those holding longer-term residency visas, such as 5-year or 10-year visas under special conditions (like the Golden Visa), the Emirates ID will reflect a matching validity period.
For UAE Citizens:
UAE nationals typically receive an Emirates ID with a longer validity period of 5 to 10 years, depending on the specific policies at the time of application and factors like the age of the holder. Citizens must renew their Emirates ID upon its expiry to maintain continuous access to various governmental and non-governmental services, which include healthcare, banking, and voting.
Renewal Reminder: It’s crucial to renew your Emirates ID before it expires. Setting reminders through calendar apps or subscribing to alert services from the UAE government can help you manage renewal dates effectively and avoid legal issues.
| Visa validity | 3 years | Emirates ID validity | 3 years |
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How Do I Cancel My Emirates ID?
If your circumstances change, you can choose to cancel your ID.
Reasons for cancellation could include:
- A change of job or setting up a business in Dubai and getting a new UAE residency visa
- You are leaving the UAE permanently
Whatever your reason, the process is easy. Just as your Emirates ID and Residency Visa are linked at the application stage, they are at the cancellation stage too. To do this, simply surrender your card to your employer or the Immigration Authority when you submit your passport for visa cancellation.
1. Report to the Police Station
If you believe your Emirates ID has been stolen or tampered with, immediately visit your nearest police station to report the loss. The police will assist you in filing a formal report and provide the necessary forms to document the incident thoroughly.
2. Report the Incident to the ICP
Immediately report the loss, theft, or damage of your Emirates ID card by visiting the nearest ICP Customer Happiness Centre. This step is crucial as it helps deactivate the stolen or lost card to prevent misuse. During your visit, you should provide identification to verify your identity.
Additional Requirements:
- UAE nationals: An original valid passport and a family book.
- GCC nationals: A document proving residency in the UAE.
- Expatriate residents: An original passport stamped with a valid residency permit.
- For children under 15: An original birth certificate and a coloured passport photo against a white background.
3. Apply for ID Card Replacement
Fill out an application form for ID card replacement either via this link which will direct you to the ICP’s website. Alternatively, you can submit this through the UAE ICP app which is available on iTunes and Google Play.
4. Pay the Fees
The replacement costs are as follows:
- AED 300: Card issuance for Replacement/lost Damaged Card
- AED 40 dirhams: service fee
- AED 30 dirhams: printing office fee
Additionally, you have the option to pay AED150 for urgent service, which will be carried out at a customer happiness centre.
5. Collect Your New ID Card
You will be notified via text message about the status of your application and the expected delivery date. Standard ID cards are issued within 48 hours of submitting the replacement application, while those opting for express service will receive their ID within 24 hours. The collection is facilitated through Emirates Post after receiving notification from ICP.
Additional Steps for Overseas Loss
If you lose your ID card while abroad, immediately contact the UAE embassy in the country you are in. Upon returning to the UAE, you can follow the above steps to apply for a replacement Emirates ID card.
Understanding Your Emirates ID Number
The unique 15-digit number on your Emirates ID card contains critical information which applies only to you.
This information is divided into 4 parts:
- 784: The first three digits are standard for all cards, representing the UAE country code.
- Year of Birth: The next part often correlates with your year of birth.
- Random Number: Followed by a randomly generated sequence ensuring each ID is unique.
- Verification Digit: The last digit is a check number for verification purposes (from 0 to 9).
Your Emirates ID number is personal and stays with you for life (even if you cease to be a United Arab Emirates resident by cancelling your UAE residence Visa and returning years later). It cannot be altered or amended.
Privacy and Security Features of the Emirates ID
The Emirates ID card is fortified with several advanced technological features designed to enhance its security and prevent falsification. Among these features are ultraviolet (UV) ink and intricate line drawings, supplemented by a comprehensive suite of security layers that make the card particularly difficult to counterfeit.
Key components of the ID’s security include:
- Biometric Data: The card stores biometric identifiers, such as fingerprints and eye scans, which are critical for secure identity verification and help prevent identity theft.
- Electronic Chip: This chip securely stores personal data, ensuring it can only be accessed by authorized systems, thereby safeguarding the cardholder’s information.
- Digital Signature: Utilized to validate the authenticity of documents electronically, enhancing the integrity and trustworthiness of transactions.
Additionally, the card includes a sophisticated system of integrated circuits that contain the cardholder’s personal and biometric data, along with digital certificates. These features collectively ensure that the Emirates ID is not only a robust document against fraud but also a secure medium for everyday transactions and verifications.
Emirates ID – Made Easy with Virtuzone
Applying for an Emirates ID is a seamless and efficient process, typically coinciding with your visa application. For those on an employment visa, the application is usually managed by your employer, ensuring that all formalities are handled professionally.
However, if you have a Freelance Visa or own a business, you can handle the application yourself, or hire one of our business setup consultants at Virtuzone to take care of it for you.
For convenience, you can always check the status of your Emirates ID and track the processing stages either through the ICP website or via their dedicated mobile app, keeping you informed every step of the way.
FAQ’s
How Can I Get an Emirates ID Card?
You can apply for your Emirates ID card on the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) website.
What Are the Required Documents to Apply for an Emirates ID?
Typically, you’ll need to provide a copy of your valid passport, a visa page (for non-citizens), and a passport-sized photograph. Additional documents might be required depending on your residency status and application circumstances.
Can I Track the Status of My Emirates ID Application?
Yes, you can track the status of your Emirates ID application by visiting the ICP website and entering your application number or Emirates ID number. This will provide you with real-time updates on the processing stage of your ID card.
How Much Does an Emirates ID Card Cost?
The cost of your Emirates ID card will depend on how long you want it to be valid and your residency status. Typically, you will have to pay for 5 years which is AED 100, plus AED 30-150 for the service fee and AED 30 for the typing centre fee.
How Will I Receive My Emirates ID Card?
Once your Emirates ID card is ready, it will be delivered through Emirates Post. You will receive an SMS notification informing you of the availability of your ID card and the specific Emirates Post branch where you can collect it. Ensure your contact details are up to date in the system to receive these notifications promptly.
What Happens If I Lose My Emirates ID?
If you lose your Emirates ID, you should report it immediately and apply for a replacement through the ICP website or at any Customer Happiness Center. You may need to provide a police report and other documentation to receive a replacement ID.
How Can I Change the Address or Other Personal Details on My Emirates ID?
To change the address or other personal details on your Emirates ID, you must update your information through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) website. Log in to your profile and submit the changes online. Alternatively, you can visit an ICP Customer Happiness Center to make the changes in person. Ensure you have all the necessary documents to verify the updates. Once submitted, the changes will be reflected on your Emirates ID after processing.
Are There Any Legal Restrictions on Seizing an Emirates ID?
Yes, it is illegal for companies in the UAE to seize the Emirates ID card of employees, customers, or visitors. Companies are permitted only to collect personal data from the ID cards as needed. This policy helps protect the rights of cardholders and prevents misuse of the ID card.
