The United Arab Emirates welcomes thousands of expatriates every year to the world of opportunities and services. However, to avail them, the expats need to possess a national ID card, commonly known as an Emirates ID, which is a fundamental requirement for citizens, residents, and even newborn babies in the country. The process to apply for Emirates ID might be a little overwhelming, considering its significance in the UAE.
So, here we have compiled all the necessary information about the Emirates ID, including the breakdown of the process of applying for this ID to breeze you through the application procedure.
What is Emirates ID?
Emirates ID is an identity card that carries personal information, such as the name, photo, and fingerprints of an individual. It is basically a biometric card issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security-ICP. The UAE citizens and residents are required to carry it with them all the time.
There are different categories of Emirates ID –
- Citizen ID card for UAE citizens (with 10 years validity)
- GCC ID card for GCC nationals residing in the UAE (with 5 years validity)
- Expat ID card for foreigners (based on the validity of the visa)
Features of Emirates ID
- Enhanced protection of non-visible data
- Advanced technological characteristics
- A high-quality with a longer service life
- An integrated 3D picture
- Additional fields and codes
Importance of getting an Emirates ID
It is very important to have an Emirates ID in the UAE. Here’s why –
- A legal requirement.
- Used for a variety of purposes.
- A secure and reliable form of identification.
- Required to vote in elections
- Required to travel within the UAE.
- Useful for applying for government services.
It is important to understand that the Emirates ID belongs to a single individual only. Using another person’s ID card is against the law. Besides, it cannot be withheld from anyone by any authorities or organizations.
Uses of an Emirates ID in the UAE
Apart from being used as an identification tool, an Emirates ID can be used for several purposes. Once you apply for Emirates ID, there are many things you can do with it, such as –
- Open a bank account and access other financial services.
- Rent a property
- Get a job
- Travel to other GCC countries without the need for a passport
- Vote in the UAE elections
- Access to several government services such as healthcare, education, and employment services.
- Obtain a driving license in the UAE.
- Access to places and facilities such as airports, government buildings, and others.
Most importantly, you must carry your Emirates ID with you at all times. Without it, you may be fined or even deported.
Steps to apply for Emirates ID
If you are a first-time applicant for an Emirates ID, here’s what you need to do: –
Apply
There are two ways to apply for Emirates ID –
- Online application
- Offline application
The online applications are managed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security– ICP, whereas the offline applications are collected through an accredited typing center or an Amer center. This step is followed by applying for a residence visa simultaneously.
Pay the fees
Next, you need to pay the service and card fee, depending on the type of visa you are applying for. For example, the cost of the Emirates ID on a one-year visa will be different from the cost of the ID on a two-year visa. Similarly, for a 10-year visa, the cost would be higher.
Undergo the biometric scan
The Emirates ID application in the UAE requires the biometric details of the applicant for which they’ll have to visit one of ICP’s service centers. This step is required only while applying for the first time. To locate the nearest ICP centers, you can reach out to the visa consultants at Shuraa.
Collect the ID
Once you have submitted your request for the Emirates ID, keep track of the application’s status. Once issued, the ICP will notify informing the location to collect the Emirates ID.
Checklist of requirements for Emirates ID
The process to apply for Emirates ID is quite simple, however, you need to gather the right documents first. So, here’s a checklist of Emirates ID requirements –
For UAE citizens: –
- Family book
- Passport
- Photograph
For GCC Nationals: –
- Passport
- A Gulf card (for individuals who are 21 or older)
- A Gulf card for one of the parents (for individuals younger than 21)
- A birth certificate /parent’s passport/Emirates ID (for individuals younger than 15)
- A personal Photograph
- Proof of residence (such as a trade license, employment certificate, attested employment agreement, or any document that proves that the applicant is a student in the UAE)
For Expats: –
- Passport
- Residency permit/entry permit
- A personal Photograph
- A birth certificate /parent’s passport/Emirates ID (for applicants younger than 15)
The applicants must take note that the submitted documents must be original and valid. They can also submit photocopies of these documents, provided they are duly attested by a notary public.
Cost to apply for Emirates ID
The cost of obtaining an Emirates ID differs depending on the validity period of the card and the applicant’s residency status. However, the basic cost includes the service fee and the printing office charges.
Renew your Emirates ID
The Emirates ID needs to be renewed within 30 days of its expiry date. Any delay or negligence may lead to a fine of AED 20 per day, going up to a maximum of AED 1000. Therefore, UAE residents must keep a regular check on the Emirates ID validity and status.
To apply for Emirates ID renewal, you can either visit the official website of ICP or an accredited typing center. After submitting the required documents and application form, pay the renewal fees. The renewal cost depends on the validity of the Emirates ID and the application processing center. Once completed, the applicant can track the status of the application and get notified by the authorities accordingly.
Important information about the Emirates ID
- All citizens and residents of the UAE are required to always carry their Emirates ID. Failure to present the card could land them in trouble.
- If any individual loses a card, they must replace it as soon as possible by applying for a new one.
- If a woman resident gets married and changes her name, she must notify the Emirates Identification Authority (EIDA) about the same.
- Every individual residing in the UAE, including children and newborn babies, must have an Emirates ID.
- If any of the details on the Emirates ID are incorrect, then the cardholder must visit the nearest EIDA office and get it updated by submitting proof of correct details.
- Always remember that the Emirates ID should remain valid and accurate.
Get started on your business dream
When it comes to starting your own business in a country like UAE, you would require professional assistance. Shuraa Business Setup offers a wide range of support services tailored to your business needs. They are there with you from the start of your journey and beyond. Apart from license and Emirates ID application assistance, their support services include visa assistance, documentation, corporate bank assistance, and many more.
So, get ready to pave your way to success in the UAE with Shuraa! Visit www.shuraa.com today.
