What is an Emirates ID and why will it be replacing residency visas in the UAE?

Emirates ID

Up until now, the residency visa was a requirement for foreigners that wanted to come to the region and invest. However, from now on, Emirates ID will be replacing residency visas in the UAE. This will be applicable for documents provided after April 11.

In this article, you will learn about this new change and why it is going to be put in place. In addition, we will let you know what is an Emirates ID and what is its main purpose. As well as, what was the use of residency visas in the UAE.

  1. What was the use of a residency visa?
  2. What is an Emirates ID card?
  3. Why do Emirates ID cards will be replacing residency visas?
  4. How to obtain an Emirates ID?
  5. What are the features of a UAE ID card?
  6. How to replace a United Arab Emirates ID card?
  7. How can Connect Zone help you obtain an Emirates ID card?

1. What was the use of residency visas?

A residency visa in the UAE is a permit provided by the local authorities that allow foreigners to work, invest, and live in the region. It is valid from 2 to 10 years and it can be renewed as many times as you need.

Foreigners were able to obtain this document by having a local employment offer, setting up a business in the region, enrolling in an Emirati college or university, owning properties, and with a UAE Golden Visa or a residency visa for retirees.

Subsequently, to obtain a residency visa, foreigners need to legalize their documents. For example, if they have a job offer in the United Arab Emirates, they have to provide their university certificate attested by the embassy of the UAE in their respective country. Then, after applying for the residency visa, individuals will be granted an entry permit.

Once they have this permit, they can enter the region to perform the necessary medical examination and biometric appointment. Lastly, they will have their passports stamped and receive their Emirates ID card.

2. What is an Emirates ID?

An Emirates ID is the principal identification or residency card of every United Arab Emirates resident and citizen. It is a personal document that contains information about every resident and they must have it in hand at all times.

Usually, foreigners obtain this ID card and other types of visas such as freelance visas, from an immigration agency. With their support, you can easily go through the process of obtaining your Emirates ID card in no time. Plus, they will make sure to offer you other services if you are looking to start a company in the area.

Emirates ID cards are necessary for important transactions, for instance:

  • Paying utility, phone, and internet bills.
  • Canceling fines.
  • Registering vehicles.
  • And now, as a replacement for the residency visa.

It is important to note that if you lost your Emirates ID card you have to replace it immediately. Because, if you fail to present your card when asked by any local authority, you will be in legal trouble. Having an ID card is a legal requirement and everyone must have one, even children and newborn babies.

Consequently, you must provide the right information to your immigration agency. So, they can make sure that every detail is correct once they submit the necessary documents to the local authorities.

3. Why do Emirates ID cards will be replacing residency visas?

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security announced this past April 4th, 2022, that foreigners will no longer need a residency visa to stay in the United Arab Emirates. However, they must have their Emirates ID card in place as it will be replacing this type of visa from April 11th, 2022.

In this way, this move was made to support the recent launch of the new generation Emirates ID. This new card counts with advanced technology that enhances the protection of invisible data. Also, it will be increasing its life for more than 10 years. The new Emirates ID card includes a 3D picture using laser-printing technology that shows the date of birth of the individual.

With this updated card, the United Arab Emirates government will be moving its project to innovate passports and identification cards forward. The next-gen ID card will allow authorities to record population data easier and quicker. As for now, only the digital version of the card is available. Nonetheless, the new physical Emirates ID will be out later this year.

In addition, replacing residency visas with Emirates ID cards will foment the development of services provided by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. Hence, they will be able to apply best practices in the future. Furthermore, this new implementation will reduce the steps of issuing and renewing residency visas.

Now, your identification will contain details of your residency visa status, once you pass the necessary medical tests. And also, you will not have a page in your passport occupied with a visa sticker. Connect Zone will make sure that you understand every step of the local ID issuing process when you get in contact with us.

4. How to obtain an Emirates ID?

The Emirates ID is an obligatory identification card for everyone residing in the United Arab Emirates. To obtain this card, you can get in touch with an immigration agency to make sure that you go through this process without any difficulties.

The steps to issue your ID are the following:

4.1 Apply for the Emirates ID card

Firstly, you will have to complete a required application form. You must not make any mistakes while filling out this application. To obtain this form, you can get in touch with any of our dedicated agents and they will guide you through this overwhelming procedure.

The fee for this application form is AED 30 and you must submit it to your immigration agency with the following documents:

  • For UAE nationals: valid passport and family book.
  • GCC nationals: valid proof of UAE residency, GCC ID card, and valid passport.
  • For UAE foreigners: work permit and valid passport.
  • Children under 15 years old: headshot against a white background, original birth certificate, passport of on their parents, valid passport, and entry visa,
  • For elderly individuals and people of determination: headshot against a white background, a medical report provided by an authorized health institution in the UAE, valid entry visa, and passport.

4.2 Submit documents to the agency

Secondly, you should submit these documents to the immigration agency. In this way, they will provide them to the Emirates Identification Authority. They will take care of guiding you to the office to get your picture taken and go through the biometrics system. Also, you will have to pay the cost of the Emirates ID which is AED 100 per year of validity.

After 90 days, your ID card will be in your hands and you will be able to receive it directly from your agency.

5. What are the features of a UAE ID card?

The Emirates identification card consists of components that provide high-level accuracy and security which are:

  • Identification number: the identity number of the UAE ID card will be forever with its owner. Number holders can benefit from non-governmental, private, and governmental entities’ services. It includes 15 digits and is featured for its single and un-repeated number.
  • Electronic chip: this chip contains the data of the cardholder. As a result, with this data, users can authenticate their credentials through electronic reader machines. Some of this information is encrypted. Therefore, only authorized entities can read it to protect the security of the data.
  • Other technologies: Emirates ID cards have top-notch technology that includes accurate letters, line drawing, 3D printing, and more. Additionally, it has security features that do not allow the card to be duplicated. It is at the same standard as the local banking credit cards.

With an Emirates ID card, you can obtain any type of business license, such as an e-commerce license and other types of trade licenses. These processes can often be difficult for foreigners. Nevertheless, with the support of an agency like Connect Zone, they will become easier and hassle-free.

6. How to replace a United Arab Emirates ID card?

If your local ID card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement from the Federal Authority for Citizenship and Identity through an immigration agency. These companies will take care of guiding you through the operation to get it replaced. Subsequently, they will:

  • Report the incident: with the help of an agent, you can go to an ICA Customer Happiness Centre to report the incident so the lost identification card can be deactivated. Therefore, you should ask for a copy of the lost ID or the ID number confirmation. Finally, do not forget to bring your identification papers with you to prove your identity.
  • Pay the necessary fees: individuals must make a payment of AED 300 minimum for having their Emirates ID replaced. The fee will vary depending on a series of formalities. This payment applies to all UAE nationals and foreigners alike.
  • Obtain your new card: 48 hours after applying to replace your Emirates ID card, you will be able to collect it from your trusted immigration agency.

If for some reason you want to update the details on your Emirates ID, you can talk to the agency and ask them for help in this particular process. To make any changes to your UAE ID card, you have to provide your identification card and valid passport and the agency will make sure to submit the changes to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security.

Ultimately, if you want to cancel your United Arab Emirates ID for the reason of changing jobs and leaving the region, you can explain it to your immigration agency. Consequently, they will hand it to the General Directorate for Residency and Foreigners Affairs. To do so, you have to be sure that you will not be returning to the UAE.

7. How can Connect Zone help you obtain an Emirates ID card?

In summary, having an Emirates ID card is more important than ever. Especially, if you are a foreigner looking to reside in the United Arab Emirates. For this reason, our agency is here to help you. We are a service agency with more than two decades of experience helping our clients start and develop their businesses in the region.

Our company will make sure to provide you with the necessary solutions, such as PRO services, consultancy, visas, and more. In this way, your business can expand all over the UAE with no effort from you. In addition, we offer you the greatest corporate opportunities in the Free Zones and Mainland.

With our specialized support, you can take your business to the next level. We can help you obtain the necessary visas for you and your workforce, licenses, bank account accessibility, Emirates ID cards, and more. We will be your connection between you and the most incredible commercial possibilities that will make your company grow in many areas.

Do you want to obtain your next-generation United Arab Emirates ID card with us? You can send us an email at contact@connectzone.ae to get in touch with one of our agents. You can also call us at +971 43 316 688 and we will make sure to give you all the necessary information so you can have a swift ID issuing process in the UAE.

Furthermore, if you are searching for the perfect job opportunity in the United Arab Emirates, you can go to thetalentpoint.com, and submit your CV or resume. Also, you can send it to contact@thetalentpoint.com and one of our agents will review it. We assure you that you will be finding the job of your dreams in no time.

The easiest way to get your new Emirates ID

new Emirates ID

When you decide to start a new stage as an entrepreneur in the United Arab Emirates, you must take into account the various legal documents that you will need to live and work safely and effectively. A new Emirates ID is the basic documentation for every resident of the UAE, for this reason, the government has made it easy to obtain it.

In this article, you will find information on how to obtain a new Emirates ID, the renewal process, what to do if your ID gets stolen, lost, or damaged, how you can receive a Digital Emirates ID and how we can help you to facilitate this process.

  1. What is an Emirates ID?
  2. How to get a new Emirates ID?
  3. New Emirates ID features
  4. How to get an Emirates ID renewal?
  5. What can I do if my Emirates ID gets lost, stolen, or damaged?
  6. What can I do if I have to cancel my Emirates ID?
  7. How can we help you receive your new ID card?

1. What is an Emirates ID?

An Emirates ID is an identity document issued by The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC). It is a requirement for all residents of the United Arab Emirates to apply for one and carry it everywhere. The use of an ID is the following:

  • To be able to vote in elections of the Federal National Council
  • As a travel document for residents of the United Arab Emirates to travel within the GCC
  • To get government services
  • As an immigration document through the eGates and smart gates in the different airports of the UAE

Consider that except for The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, it is against the law to withhold the Emirate ID Card from other people. No company can retain the Emirate ID Card from their employees or their customers. They are only allowed to take the personal data reflected in it.

2. How to get new Emirates ID?

In recent years, the government of the UAE has been working to facilitate the application process for an ID. In this way, getting an Emirate ID Card has become an easy process anyone can complete by following these steps:

2.1 Obtain a UAE Pass

As an initiative of the Government of the United Arab Emirates for the use of more intelligent government systems, they recommend to create a UAE Pass account, which will allow you to enter the online portal of the government department without the need to use multiple accounts.

Also, with the new update, you can get a UAE Pass and use it to enter different portals with facial recognition technology, making it easier for users with smartphones.

2.2 Prepare the documents

Once the process has started, you need a digital copy of the following documents, to upload them to the online portal of the government department:

  • Residence visa copy
  • Colored photos
  • Front and back pages of your passport

If you are also applying for a dependent’s Emirates ID, you will also need a copy of your own Emirates ID.

2.3 Enter the online portal of the corresponding government department

You can start the application process for an ID through the website of the Federal Authority of Identity and Citizenship (www.ica.gov.ae) or the smartphone application (ICA UAE), available for Apple and Android.

Next, you must log in. If you decide to enter through the UAE Pass, it will send you to the UAE Pass application on your smartphone, which will use your pin to verify your identity or facial recognition technology. Once your identity is verified, you can continue the process in the ICA application or website.

 2.4 Select the service to get your Emirates ID

In addition to the process, you will have the option to request the assignment of your Emirate ID and you will be able to see all the ID cards of the members of your family or of the domestic workers that you have under your sponsorship.

2.5 Upload the documents

At this point, you will need to upload all the documents to the corresponding online portal. Also, you must declare how the Emirates ID will be delivered to you, you can choose if you prefer to pick it up at a post office near you or if, on the contrary, you prefer to receive it at home. Please note that delivery costs will apply.

2.6 Make the payment

To upload the documents you must make the corresponding payment first. It is important to note that your Emirate ID is directly related to the duration of your visa.

If your visa lasts two years, you will have to pay DH200 for the card issuance and DH40 for the service fees.

If, on the other hand, you have a Golden Visa (which lasts 10 years) you will have to pay DH1000 for card issuance and DH40 for service fees.

2.7 Access to the Digital Emirates ID

Once the process is complete, you will receive a notification via email confirming the submission of your application. When your application is ready, you will be able to access a digital Emirates ID through the ICA app.

Finally, with the approved application, you will be able to use the Digital Emirates ID to complete everyday processes, for example, getting health insurance. The ICA requested to all service providers accept the Emirates ID electronic copy, which can be accessed through the ICA app, for the identity verification process.

2.8 Receive the physical copy of your ID

Upon approval of your Emirates ID application, the ICA will be in charge of printing it. Once printed, you will receive a notification via email or SMS so that you can pick up your ID Card at the post office closest to you. If you paid for the delivery, it will be sent directly to your home.

3. New Emirates ID features

Emirates ID cards are made with high-level technology to offer you security and confidence in your daily operations. Among its components are the following:

  • Fingerprint biometrics
  • Public key infrastructure (Digital signature and authentication certificates)
  • Smart card

3.1 Identification number

Emirates ID Cards contain an identification number that stays with the owner forever. With this number, the owner of the ID can enjoy government services and some non-government services.

3.2 Electronic Chip

  • It contains the personal information of the owner
  • Only authorized machines can read this chip and serve to authenticate the identity of the owner
  • The information on the chip is encrypted in order to ensure the privacy of the owner
  • This chip can store up to 32,000 letters of information

3.3 Other technologies

Emirates ID cards are one of the most technologically advanced cards in the field of Smart Cards. They include nine security filters that make counterfeiting very difficult and that greatly differentiate them from normal bank credit cards.

4. How to get an Emirates ID renewal?

To get an Emirates ID renewal, you must do so no later than thirty days after its expiration date. As the ID Card expires, the owner must request its renewal. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC) will send you a notification via SMS or email requesting your ID renewal.

After that, you must take the request in person or through the FAIC website (you can ask for a renewal online)

It is important to realize that UAE residents can apply for an Emirates ID renewal between six months and one year before expiration while residents who have a Visa can only request it when they renew their Visa.

5. What can I do if my Emirates ID gets lost, stolen, or damaged?

Emirates Identity Authority building
Emirates Identity Authority building

If someone stole or damaged your ID Card, or you lost it, you should immediately request a replacement from the Federal Authority for Citizenship and Identity. The steps to replace your ID card are the following:

5.1 Report the incident

Go to the nearest ICA customer Happiness Center and report the accident. That way they can deactivate the stolen or lost ID Card. Also, you can ask ICA for the identity number of your ID or a copy of it if you do not already have it.

In the case of a damaged ID card, remember to take the old one with you. When you report the accident, remember to take your documentation papers with you to prove your identity. For example:

  • If you are a UAE national, you must bring your original passport and a family book
  • GCC nationals must carry documentation that proves their residence in the UAE
  • Expatriate residents must carry their original passport stamped with a valid residence permit
  • If the lost ID belongs to a child under 15 years of age, their parents must bring the birth certificate with their color passport photo, against a white background

5.2 Apply for ID Card replacement

After reporting the incident, you must request an application form again at any ICA’s Customer Happiness Center. Also, you can fill out the same form through their website or app (available on the iTunes and Play Store) and request a replacement ID Card.

5.3 Pay the fees

To replace a lost or damaged ID card, the owner must pay AED 300. In addition to the application fees of AED 70, if they choose to process through a typing center. Besides, if you decide to carry out the process through the website, you will have to pay an application fee of AED 40.

These fees apply to all GCC nationals, UAE nationals, and expatriate residents. Keep in mind that you can receive an express replacement of your ID card at the ICA Customer Happiness Center if you pay an additional AED 150.

5.4 Receive your new ID card

The owner of the ID Card will receive a message or email from ICA about the status of their application and the expected delivery date. ICA will deliver it 48 hours after the application submission date. Those who applied for the express service will receive it in 24 hours.

6. What can I do if I have to cancel my Emirates ID?

Those residents who decide to cancel their resident visa, because they want to leave the country (either for work or pleasure) must return their ID Cards to the respective General Directorate for Residency and Foreigners Affairs. Likewise, the General Directorate for Residency and Foreigners Affairs will return the ID Cards to the FAIC.

7. How can we help you receive your new ID card?

The process of applying for and receiving an ID can be tedious, especially if you are an entrepreneur starting your business or investing for the first time in the UAE.

For this reason, at Connect Zone, seek to be your main support in this process. Our specialists are trained to attend to your needs and guide you through every step to obtain or renew your Emirates ID. Likewise, we can help you renew or obtain a visa.

Do you want more information about how to get your New Emirates ID? You can contact us at the following email address: info@connectzone.ae. Through it, you can communicate with one of our advisors. We will help you and answer all your questions.

Lastly, if you want to know more about us, you can send your CV to thetalentpoint.com or contact@thetalentpoint.com. Do not worry, we will not share your information or store it in our database.