What is Emirates ID?
The Emirates ID is a national identity card issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICA) to all UAE citizens and residents. It serves as the official proof of identity, residency, and legal status in the UAE. It is mandatory for all UAE nationals, GCC nationals residing in the UAE, and expatriate residents.
Key Features of Emirates ID
- Personal Identification: Contains essential personal details such as name, date of birth, nationality, and Emirates ID number.
- Biometric Data: Stores fingerprint and biometric data for security and identity verification.
- Smart Chip: Embedded with a chip that securely holds encrypted personal and visa-related information.
- Legal Requirement: Mandatory for accessing government and private services.
How to Get an Emirates ID
Step 1: Obtain a Residency Visa (For Non-Citizens)
- Non-citizens must have a valid UAE residency visa before applying for an Emirates ID. The visa process includes a medical test, entry permit, and stamping of the visa in your passport.
Step 2: Apply for Emirates ID
- Where to Apply:
- Online through the ICA Smart Services portal: ICA Smart Services.
- At authorized typing centers in the UAE.
- Required Documents:
- For UAE Nationals: Family book, passport, and recent photo.
- For Residents: Passport with residency visa, recent photo, and entry permit (for new residents).
- GCC Nationals: Valid GCC ID, proof of residency, and recent photo.
Step 3: Biometric Enrollment
- First-time applicants or those renewing after a long period must visit an ICA Biometric Center for:
- Fingerprinting.
- Photograph capture.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
- Fees vary based on validity (1, 2, or 3 years) and visa type:
- 1-year card: ~AED 100.
- Additional service fees may apply for urgent processing.
Step 5: Receive the Emirates ID
- After completing the application and biometrics, track your application through the ICA website or app.
- Collection: You’ll receive an SMS notification to collect your card from the post office or have it delivered to your address.
Use Cases of Emirates ID
- Legal Identification:
- Acts as the official identity card for citizens and residents in the UAE.
- Required for identification during travel within GCC countries (for UAE nationals).
- Government Services:
- Used for accessing health services, registering for utilities, and interacting with government entities.
- Residency Proof:
- Demonstrates legal residency for expatriates.
- Healthcare Services:
- Needed for obtaining health insurance or accessing medical facilities.
- Banking and Financial Transactions:
- Required for opening a bank account, applying for loans, or obtaining credit cards.
- Employment:
- Mandatory for employment contracts and labor card issuance.
- Property and Vehicle Registration:
- Used for purchasing property or registering vehicles.
- Travel:
- Acts as a substitute for a passport for UAE citizens traveling within the GCC.
- Digital Signature and E-Services:
- Can be used to sign documents digitally and access UAE government portals.
Conclusion
The Emirates ID is a crucial document that facilitates seamless access to services and serves as a legal identifier in the UAE. It is mandatory for all residents and citizens to carry and use for various purposes, ranging from government services to financial transactions.