Emirates ID Application & Biometrics
Overview
The Emirates ID is a mandatory identity card for all UAE residents. Issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). Every UAE resident must hold a valid Emirates ID.
What is Emirates ID?
Smart card with embedded chip. Contains biometric data (fingerprints, photo). Contains personal information (name, nationality, DOB). Linked to immigration and residency systems. Required for: government services, banking, healthcare, telecom, travel.
Who Needs an Emirates ID?
All UAE residents (including UAE nationals). Newborns must be registered. Must be renewed. Must be carried at all times. Lost or stolen cards must be reported.
Emirates ID Application Process
Step 1: Application Submission. PRO submits application at ICP-approved typing center or online. Provide: passport copy, entry permit/visa, medical certificate, employment contract (if employment visa), passport-size photo. Application fee: AED 270 (application) + AED 70 (typing center).
Step 2: Biometric Data Collection. Employee visits ICP service center or approved center. Fingerprints collected (all 10 fingers). Photograph taken. Signature captured. Original documents verified.
Step 3: Processing. Application processed by ICP. Card printed and prepared. Processing time: 7-14 business days. Express service available (2-5 business days) for additional fee.
Step 4: Card Collection. SMS notification when card is ready. Collect from designated center or delivery option. Must present original passport for collection. Card valid for 2 years (linked to visa duration).
Emirates ID Renewal
Renew before expiry. Can renew up to 6 months before expiry. Process same as new application. Biometric data may be re-collected (if needed). Renewal fee: AED 270.
Emirates ID Replacement
If lost or stolen: report to ICP immediately. Apply for replacement card. Fee: AED 370 (replacement). New card with same ID number. Must carry until new card is received.
If damaged: bring damaged card. Apply for replacement. Fee: AED 370.
Emirates ID for Children
Newborns must be registered within 120 days of birth. Both parents' Emirates IDs required. Birth certificate required. Biometrics not collected for children under 5 (photo only). Fingerprints from age 5+. Card valid for 5 years (for children under 5).
Biometric Data
Fingerprints: All 10 fingers captured. Used for identity verification. Stored in ICP database. Used for border control.
Photograph: High-quality digital photo. Must meet ICP standards (face forward, no glasses, neutral expression).
Signature: Digital signature captured. Used for verification.
Emirates ID Card Features
Card Contains: Full name (Arabic and English), Nationality, Date of birth, Gender, Emirates ID number, Expiry date, Photo, Fingerprint data, Cardholder signature, QR code for verification.
Smart Card Features: Contactless chip, digital certificate, photo, personal data, biometric data. Can be read by compatible devices.
Emirates ID and Other Systems
Linked to immigration system (GDRFA/ICP). Linked to labor system (MoHRE). Linked to health system. Linked to banking system. Used for UAE PASS authentication.
Emirates ID Number
15-digit number. Permanent and unique. Does not change when card is renewed. Used for all government transactions. Required on official documents.
Common Issues and Solutions
Application Rejected: Check for missing documents. Verify information accuracy. Resubmit with correct information.
Biometric Issues: Fingerprints may not scan clearly (dry skin, cuts). May need to return for re-capture. Alternative methods available.
Card Not Ready: Check status online. Contact ICP. Ensure all steps completed.
Wrong Information: Contact ICP immediately. May need to visit center. Correction process available.
PRO's Role in Emirates ID Processing
Submit applications on time. Ensure all documents are correct. Book biometric appointments. Track application status. Collect cards when ready. Maintain records of all Emirates IDs. Report lost/stolen cards. Manage renewals proactively. Keep employee informed.
Penalties
Failure to apply: AED 20/day (max AED 1,000). Failure to renew: AED 20/day (max AED 1,000). Failure to report lost card: AED 500. Providing false information: AED 500-5,000.