If you are a foreigner looking to live, work, or even just stay for an extended period in the UAE, you must get an Emirates ID. It serves as your identity document for all official and government-related activities, from opening a bank account to getting health services.
In 2023, expatriates accounted for over 88% of the UAE’s population. A valid Emirates ID is mandatory for them to access key services like banking, healthcare, and telecommunications.
In this article, we cover everything you need to know about obtaining an Emirates ID. We cover the eligibility criteria, the required documents, and the step-by-step process. We also highlight important details about the fees, validity, and the process for renewing or replacing your Emirates ID. Our experts at Now Expert Tax Consultant help foreigners to get an Emirates ID in the UAE.
What Is An Emirates ID, and Why Do Foreigners Need It In The UAE?
The Emirates ID is a personal identification card issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). It holds necessary biometric and demographic information about its holder and comes with an electronic chip that stores important data.
The Emirates ID is a national identity card for UAE residents, including foreign nationals. For foreigners, having an Emirates ID is particularly important because it allows them to live and work in the UAE legally.
Without an Emirates ID, foreigners may face difficulties in dealing with everyday tasks, such as renting a property or applying for a mobile phone contract. Additionally, the Emirates ID acts as proof of residence status for foreigners, making it a compulsory requirement for residence in the UAE.
Who Is Eligible For An Emirates ID In The UAE? (Foreigners, Expats, GCC Nationals)
If foreigners, expats, and GCC nationals meet the following eligibility criteria, they must apply for an Emirates ID in the UAE:
Foreigners
Anyone who plans to live in the UAE for more than 30 days must apply for an Emirates ID. This includes those coming for work, education, or family purposes.
Expats
Expats working in the UAE, whether they are on a work permit or sponsored by a company, need to have an Emirates ID.
GCC Nationals
Citizens from GCC countries (such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain) who are living in the UAE also need to apply for an Emirates ID, though the process may be simpler for them than for other foreigners.
Documents Required To Apply For An Emirates ID as a Foreigner In UAE:
When applying for an Emirates ID in the UAE, GCC nationals and foreigners need to gather the following important documents:
For GCC Nationals Residing in the UAE
Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries who are living in the UAE must gather the following documents to obtain an Emirates ID:
- Valid passport
- GCC ID card (if the applicant is 21 years or older)
- GCC ID card of one parent (if the applicant is younger than 21)
- Proof of residence in the UAE, such as:
- A valid trade license
- A certificate of enrollment (for students)
- An employment contract or official job offer letter
- Recent passport-sized photograph (4.5 x 3.5 cm) with a white background
These documents confirm your identity, regional citizenship, and legal presence in the UAE.
For Expatriates and Foreign Residents
If you are a foreign national or an expatriate living in the UAE, you must provide the following documents:
- Valid passport
- UAE residence visa or entry permit (depending on whether your visa is still in process)
- Recent passport-sized photo (4.5 x 3.5 cm) with a white background
These documents are mandatory for initiating your Emirates ID process and linking it with your visa status.
How Foreigners Can Apply for an Emirates ID In The UAE: Step-by-Step Guide
The process of applying for an Emirates ID is simple with the help of the following step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
In the first step, you have to check your eligibility (as given above) to apply for an Emirates ID. This ID is also a part of the UAE residency visa process, and you can apply for it through the ICA portal.
Step 2: Gather All Required Documents
In the second step, you have to collect all necessary documents before you start your application. All the required documents are listed above. You might need extra papers like health insurance or sponsorship documents, depending on your visa type.
Step 3: Choose How You Want to Apply (Online or Offline)
In the third step, you can decide whether to apply online through the ICA portal or offline by visiting a typing center. Both options are available across all emirates, so choose which is accessible for you.
How To Apply For an Emirates ID Online
Step 4 (Online): Create an ICA Account
You can start an application online by visiting the official ICA website or downloading the ICA UAE Smart app. You have to first register using your email and UAE mobile number. Once you create an account, you can access the Emirates ID application form directly from your dashboard.
Step 5 (Online): Submit the Application Form
In the next step, you need to fill out the application form with your personal details, such as name, passport number, and visa information. You have to upload scanned copies of your required documents.
Step 6 (Online): Pay Fees
After submitting the application, you have to pay the processing fees online. The fee amount depends on your visa type and ID validity period.
Step 7 (Online): Attend Biometrics Appointment
Once your application is accepted, you will receive an SMS with details about your biometrics appointment. For biometric verification, you need to visit the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) Customer Happiness Center for an appointment to provide fingerprints, a photo, and a facial scan. This step is mandatory for all first-time applicants.
Step 8 (Online): Track Your Status
After biometrics, your application will be reviewed by the ICA. You can track your application status online through the ICA portal at any time. When processing is completed, you are notified by SMS to collect your Emirates ID card.
How To Apply for Emirates ID Offline In UAE:
Step 4 (Offline): Visit Typing Center
In order to apply for an Emirates ID offline, you have to visit a typing center near you. You have to provide all the relevant information to the representative in the typing center. The representative helps you fill out the form and submit it correctly on your behalf.
Step 5 (Offline): Submit Documents and Biometrics
After completing the form, you have to submit all your required documents at the center, and you will be directed to the biometric section, where they will take your fingerprints, photograph, and facial scan.
Step 6 (Offline): Pay Fees
After the biometric process, you need to pay the ID application fees. Payment can be made directly at the center using cash or a card.
Step 7 (Offline): Track Application
You can easily track the application through the ICA portal. Once your card is ready, you will get a notification on your registered phone number.
Emirates ID Fees and Validity for Foreign Residents In The UAE
The cost of an Emirates ID varies based on your residency status and its validity. The following is the estimated cost of getting an Emirates ID:
Application Fees: For foreigners, the Emirates ID fees range from AED 100 to AED 500, depending on the type of visa and its validity period. The fee amount can vary as it may include some additional costs such as biometric processing, medical tests, and delivery charges.
Validity: The Emirates ID is generally issued with a validity of 1,2, or 5 years, depending on your residency visa duration. The cost of the Emirates ID also varies, depending on your visa validity, such as:
- 1-year validity: AED 100 – 150
- 2-year validity: AED 150 – 200
- 5-year validity: AED 300 – 500
It is important to keep track of the expiration date of your Emirates ID to avoid any penalties or delays when renewing it.
How to Renew or Replace an Emirates ID for Foreigners In The UAE
If your Emirates ID is expiring, or if it is lost or damaged, you have to renew or replace it as soon as possible to get protection against heavy fines and legal restrictions.
The following is the process for renewing or replacing an Emirates ID for foreigners in the UAE:
Renewing Your Emirates ID:
The process for renewing your Emirates ID is similar to applying for a new one, but you first need to renew your visa. You must fill out an application form, visit the ICA website or a nearby typing center, provide biometric data, and pay the renewal fees.
Replacing Your Emirates ID:
You must apply for a replacement if your Emirates ID is lost, stolen, or damaged. This involves submitting a request to the ICA, filling out a replacement form, and paying a replacement fee, which is generally the same as the renewal fee.
In both cases, your new Emirates ID will be mailed to your registered address once it is ready.
Importance Of Emirates ID For Expats Living In The UAE
Having an Emirates ID is not just a legal requirement; it is a compulsory document for your day-to-day life in the UAE. As an expat, it is important to:
- Access healthcare services.
- Open a bank account or apply for loans.
- Rent a home or sign contracts.
- Legally work in the UAE.
- Access government services efficiently.
FAQs:
Can Foreigners Apply For An Emirates ID Without a Residency Visa?
An Emirates ID is not an option for any foreigner living in the UAE without a valid UAE residence visa. The ID is linked to your visa status and is issued only after the visa is stamped. Without a residence visa, your application for the Emirates ID cannot be processed.
How Long Does It Take For foreigners To Get The Emirates ID?
Foreigners usually take 7 to 10 working days to get their Emirates ID. However, the duration may change based on how quickly your documents are verified and the availability of biometric appointments.
Where Can I Apply For An Emirates ID As a Foreigner?
You can submit your Emirates ID application either online via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website or mobile application, or you can visit an approved typing center across the UAE for assistance.
Do Children and Dependents Need an Emirates ID In The UAE?
Yes, all UAE residents, including children and newborns, must have an Emirates ID. Parents are responsible for applying on behalf of their children during the residency visa process. This ID is required for healthcare, schooling, and all legal documentation in the UAE.
What Should I Do If I Lose My Emirates ID?
If your Emirates ID is lost, immediately report it to the ICP or a nearby typing center and request a replacement. You have to provide a valid passport and residency visa information, and pay a fee for the replacement process.
How Can I Renew My Emirates ID In The UAE?
To renew your Emirates ID, start by renewing your residency visa. Once your visa renewal is complete, you can apply for ID renewal either online through the ICP portal or by visiting a typing center. Once processed, your new ID will be delivered to your registered address.
Can Tourists Get An Emirates ID?
Tourists are not eligible to apply for an Emirates ID because it is only issued when your residency visa has been confirmed for long-term stay and legal residency. Tourists must carry their original passports for identification during their visit.
How Can We Help You?
At Now Consultant, we help you to get your Emirates ID for foreigners. We provide services that range from checking your eligibility and collecting the correct documents to submitting your application online or offline.
Whether you are applying for the first time, renewing an expired ID, or replacing a lost one, we handle all the technicalities. We help prevent common mistakes that can lead to delays, rejections, or fines, saving you both time and money.
