Whether you’re an expat who has just arrived, a born-and-bred resident, or a veteran hand here for many years, there is one thing that’s common to all of us: the Emirates ID.
It’s that little shiny card that you can stuff into your wallet but which is so crucial—like your last key to existence in the Emirates.
From applying for an apartment and banking to checking into the hospital or airport, this ID ensures you are who you say you are and that you’re there.
So, if you want to know how to apply, follow up, renew, or even cancel your Emirates ID—whether you’re just wondering about what’s happening with your application status—this guide is here for you in plain, easy-to-understand language.
What is the Emirates ID (and Why Is It So Important)?
The Emirates ID is the official identity card issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) for every UAE citizen and resident—regardless of age.
You’ll need it to:
- Pass through airport e-gates with ease
- Prove your identity during traffic checks
- Access healthcare services or get insurance
- Get a SIM card
- Subscribe to government services
- Renew your visa
- And yes, even pay parking fines
Short version: if you reside in the UAE, you have to have it—and keep it up to date.
What are the Features of Emirates ID Card?
This is not any card. The Emirates ID is a highly secure smart card that employs advanced technology to hold your information and keep it safe.
- Biometric data such as fingerprints and your picture
- A 15-digit lifetime personal identity number
- A digital chip containing demographic and personal information
- Laser-engraved photo and holograms to avoid tampering
Multifunctional Applications:
- Your digital signature
- Can be used as a health card in certain Emirates
- Serves as an e-gate pass for UAE airport gates
- Used to enjoy smart services, from Salik recharge to visa renewals
So, yes—it’s far more than a plastic card. It’s your UAE digital identity.
How to Get an Emirates ID? Step-by-Step Process
Obtaining your Emirates ID is part of settling in the UAE. It is usually processed alongside your residency visa application, whether as an employee, investor, or dependent.
Step-by-step:
- Begin with a UAE residency visa application (processed by your sponsor/employer).
- Take a medical fitness test at an approved center (for adults only).
- Get an Emirates ID by:
- ICP Portal
- An approved typing center
- Visit a biometric appointment for fingerprinting and photographing (new applicants only).
- Wait while processing after which your card will be printed and sent to a local Emirates Post Office to collect.
Cost:
- Around AED 100–150 per year of validity + service fees
Validity:
- UAE Nationals: 5 or 10 years
- Expatriates: 1, 2, or 3 years—depending on your visa
Need Your Emirates ID Urgently? Try the 24-Hour “Fawri” Service
If you’ve got a pressing reason—maybe you’re traveling soon or starting a new job—you can request your Emirates ID within 24 hours using the Fawri Service.
Who Can Use It?
- All UAE nationals
- GCC nationals residing in the UAE
- Expats with special cases (with supporting documents)
How It Works?
- Go to an ICP Customer Happiness Center
- Ask for the Fawri service at the counter
- Pay the fast-track fee (approximately AED 150–300 additional)
- Get your card in 1 business day
How to Check Emirates ID Validity or Residency Visa Status?
Forgot when your ID or visa expires? Don’t worry—verifying will take less than 2 minutes.
Offline:
- Visit smartservices.icp.gov.ae
- Select “File Validity”
- Enter either:
- Your Emirates ID number, or
- Visa file number on your passport
- Click search and check your ID status, residency validity, and expiry date
Tip: Schedule a calendar reminder 30 days prior to expiry to prevent late payment fines.
How to Track Your Emirates ID Application Status?
Once you’ve applied, you’ll naturally want to know what’s happening with your card.
Check Your Status:
- Visit: icp.gov.ae/en/services/
- Click “ID Card Status”
- Enter your Application Number (PRAN) or your Emirates ID (if known)
- Click Submit
You’ll see updates like:
- Application received
- Under processing
- Card printed
- Picked up from post office
- Ready for collection
If it says “ready for pickup,” simply go with your Emirates ID receipt and Emirates ID application number to the specified Emirates Post office.
How to Renew Your Emirates ID (Before It’s Too Late)?
The ICP advises renewing your Emirates ID at least 30 days prior to expiry to prevent fines (AED 20 per day).
Renewal Process:
- Apply online via ICP portal or at a typing center
- Pay the renewal fee
- Attend a biometric appointment (if necessary)
- Receive approval, and pick up your new card
Cost:
- Similar to new card (AED 100–150/year)
- Late renewal fine: AED 20/day (maximum AED 1,000)
What to do if your Emirates ID is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged?
If your card is lost or damaged, act quickly. You don’t want your identity stolen. So here’s what you need to do during such a circumstance.
Replacement Steps:
- Report ICP right away (online or in person)
- Complete a replacement application
- Pay the replacement fee (AED 300–400)
- Get your new card within a few days (or opt for express delivery)
Need to Update Your Personal Details on Your Emirates ID?
It’s your turn to renew your card if you:
- You need to update your name (on marriage, divorce, etc.)
- Update nationalities
- The updated addresses
- Update your phone number or workplace
How to Update?
- Go to a local ICP center or use the UAEICP Smart App
- Present your changed documents (such as tenancy contract or passport)
- Pay a modification fee
- Your ID will be re-printed and re-issued
Emigrating from the UAE? Here’s How to Cancel Your Emirates ID
If you are emigrating from the UAE permanently, you need to cancel your residency visa—and hence your Emirates ID.
Cancellation Steps
- Submit a residency cancellation application
- Surrender your Emirates ID to your company or immigration department
- The card is automatically cancelled upon your visa
Note: Legally speaking, you cannot retain your Emirates ID once your residency has been cancelled.
Your Emirates ID is Your Gateway to Life in the UAE
The Emirates ID is more than an ID card—it’s a requirement that simplifies life in the UAE. From monitoring your visa status and card renewal to calling an emergency number or updating information, staying ahead of your Emirates ID status isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do.
Bookmark the ICP portal, set reminders for renewal, and properly take care of your ID. Knowledge is power not to get unnecessarily fined, slow, or delayed in your residency process.
