The Emirates ID is a mandatory identity card issued to all UAE residents and citizens by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). Every expat on a UAE residence visa must apply for an Emirates ID within 30 days of their visa being stamped. It is required for almost every official transaction in the UAE — from opening a bank account to registering a vehicle to accessing government services.
What is the Emirates ID?
The Emirates ID is a smart card containing a chip with the holder's biometric data — fingerprints, a digital photograph, and personal details. It serves as the primary proof of identity and residency in the UAE. Unlike a passport, the Emirates ID is issued specifically for use within the UAE and is accepted at all government offices, hospitals, banks, and telecom providers as valid ID.
The Emirates ID is issued by the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security). The card is valid for the same duration as the holder's UAE residence visa — typically one, two, or three years for most expat categories, renewable alongside the visa.
Who Needs an Emirates ID?
All UAE residents on a valid residence visa are required to hold an Emirates ID. This includes employed expats sponsored by a company, family members sponsored by a resident, domestic workers, and self-sponsored residents on investor or freelance visas. UAE citizens hold a separate Emirates ID that does not expire.
Tourists and visitors on a visit visa do not need an Emirates ID. Long-term residents on retirement visas or the UAE Golden Visa are also required to hold one.
Emirates ID Application: Step by Step
Step 1 — Visa stamping: Your UAE residence visa must be stamped in your passport before you can apply for an Emirates ID. Your employer or visa sponsor typically handles this step.
Step 2 — Submit the application: Applications can be submitted online via the ICP website (icp.gov.ae) or through an authorised typing centre. Most expats use a typing centre — they handle the form, payment, and submission for a small service fee. The ICP smart app also allows direct application from your phone.
Step 3 — Biometrics: You will be asked to visit an ICP service centre to provide biometric data — fingerprints and a photograph. For new applicants, this appointment is usually required within a few days of submitting the application. Children under 15 are exempt from fingerprinting.
Step 4 — Card production and delivery: Once biometrics are captured and the application is approved, the Emirates ID card is printed and delivered by Emirates Post to your registered address. You will receive an SMS notification when the card is dispatched.
Documents Required for Emirates ID
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Original passport | With valid UAE residence visa stamped |
| Passport-size photograph | White background — required at typing centres |
| Entry stamp or visa copy | Proof of legal entry into UAE |
| Sponsor's Emirates ID copy | Required for family-sponsored applicants |
| Birth certificate | For children's applications |
Documents vary slightly depending on your visa category. Your typing centre will confirm exactly what is needed for your specific case.
Emirates ID Fees
| Fee type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base card fee | AED 100 per year of validity |
| Total cost — 1-year card | ~AED 170 (inc. smart application and service fees) |
| Total cost — 2-year card | ~AED 270 (inc. smart application and service fees) |
| Total cost — 3-year card | ~AED 370 (inc. smart application and service fees) |
| Urgent processing (Fawri) | AED 150 — additional charge on top of card fee |
| Late application fine | AED 20 per day, capped at AED 1,000 |
| Replacement (lost or damaged) | AED 300 |
The base card fee is AED 100 per year of validity. Total costs including smart application and service fees are approximately AED 170 for a 1-year card, AED 270 for a 2-year card, and AED 370 for a 3-year card. Urgent Fawri processing costs an additional AED 150 on top of the card fee. Fees are paid directly to the ICP at the time of application.
How Long Does the Emirates ID Take?
Processing time for a new Emirates ID application is typically 5–10 working days from the date biometrics are captured. Urgent Fawri processing is available for an additional AED 150, reducing the timeline to 1–3 working days.
Delivery by Emirates Post usually adds 1–3 days after the card is printed. You can collect the card in person from an ICP service centre if preferred, which avoids the delivery wait.
How to Track Your Emirates ID Application
You can track your Emirates ID application status online at icp.gov.ae using your application number or passport number. The ICP smart app also provides real-time status updates. Emirates Post sends an SMS notification when the card is dispatched for delivery, along with a tracking number.
Where to Apply — Typing Centres vs ICP Direct
Most expats apply through a typing centre rather than directly through the ICP website. Typing centres are authorised service providers that handle the application form, document checking, and fee payment on your behalf. They are widely available across all seven UAE emirates — typically located near government offices, in commercial areas, and in residential districts.
Applying directly through icp.gov.ae or the ICP smart app avoids the typing centre service charge but requires you to complete the application form yourself. For first-time applicants unfamiliar with the process, a typing centre is the simpler option.
Emirates ID Renewal
The Emirates ID must be renewed each time the UAE residence visa is renewed. The renewal process follows the same steps as the initial application — submit via typing centre or ICP direct, pay the card fee, and update biometrics if required. Biometrics are not always required at renewal if they are already on file.
You can begin the renewal process up to 30 days before the current Emirates ID expires. Applying after expiry incurs a fine of AED 20 per day up to a maximum of AED 1,000.
Lost or Damaged Emirates ID
If your Emirates ID is lost or damaged, you must apply for a replacement through the ICP website, ICP smart app, or a typing centre. The replacement fee is AED 300. Report a lost Emirates ID to the police before applying for a replacement — a police report is required as part of the replacement application.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an Emirates ID in the UAE?
Standard processing takes 5–10 working days from the date biometrics are captured, plus 1–3 days for Emirates Post delivery. Urgent Fawri processing is available for an additional AED 150 and reduces the timeline to 1–3 working days.
How much does an Emirates ID cost?
The base card fee is AED 100 per year of validity. Total costs including smart application and service fees are approximately AED 170 for a 1-year card, AED 270 for a 2-year card, and AED 370 for a 3-year card. Urgent Fawri processing costs an additional AED 150.
What happens if I don't apply for my Emirates ID within 30 days?
A late application fine of AED 20 per day applies if you do not apply within 30 days of your visa being stamped. The fine is capped at AED 1,000. Apply as soon as your residence visa is stamped to avoid penalties.
Can I apply for an Emirates ID online?
Yes. Emirates ID applications can be submitted online at icp.gov.ae or through the ICP smart app. You will still need to visit an ICP service centre to provide biometric data in person. Alternatively, authorised typing centres across the UAE handle the full application process on your behalf.
Do children need an Emirates ID in the UAE?
Yes. Children on a UAE residence visa are required to hold an Emirates ID. Children under 15 are exempt from fingerprinting but must still complete the application and have their photograph taken. The card fee is the same as for adults.
How do I renew my Emirates ID?
Emirates ID renewal is done through the ICP website, ICP smart app, or a typing centre. Renewal should be done alongside your UAE residence visa renewal. You can begin the process up to 30 days before your current ID expires.
What is the fine for an expired Emirates ID?
The fine for an expired Emirates ID is AED 20 per day, capped at a maximum of AED 1,000. The same fine applies to late initial applications. Renew before the expiry date to avoid penalties.