Thinking about moving to the UAE for a better life and career prospects? If you are, then do you know about the Emirates ID? It’s a card that helps you do important stuff in the UAE, like using government and finance services. This identification card makes your life quite easy in the UAE. It is a compulsory requirement for all individuals to stay for a longer period in the UAE, no matter where they are from. If you know that you will need one, get an insight into the significance and benefits of the Emirates ID.

What is an Emirate ID?

In simple terms, the Emirates ID is a government issued identity card for all the residents of the UAE. This includes the local citizens i.e. the Emiratis and all residents /expatriates who have entered the UAE for work. This Emirate ID is like a VIP pass to living and working in the UAE for a long tenure in the UAE. It serves as an all-access pass which you can use for easy passage through airport immigration, easily opening bank accounts without breaking a sweat, and even getting government services without the usual running around and waiting times. The 15-digit identification number becomes an identity number for the cardholder perpetually. Even after renewal, the ID card identification number linked to the individual remains the same. This smart card stores all of the essential information of the cardholder which can be accessed by authorities easily. The card is light , made of plastic and small enough to fit neatly in your wallet.

How to apply for an Emirates ID?

Getting your Emirates ID is a simple process. It is a concurring step while applying for your work visa, or residency permit if you are an expat. For Emiratis, the card is issued right at birth in the country or it can be issued through the official channels with minimum paperwork such as a passport and family passbook, certificate of social security, photographs, original birth certificate etc.

For expats, the process involves submitting the application through the official website and submitting the required documents, such as a copy of your passport and visa or entry permit, to the Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA) along with the required fee for the process. Once the application is approved, you will need to visit an EIDA centre to complete the biometric registration process, which includes fingerprint scans and a photograph. Follow the steps below to get a hassle-free experience to get an Emirates ID.

Receive your Emirates ID: When the ID is ready, Emirates Post will send you an email or SMS. You can contact them to arrange for an additional cost to have your ID delivered to your door. The ID card is typically issued in five business days.

Prepare your documentation kit: Make sure you have a valid residency visa or are in the process of getting one. Kids would require their birth certificate along with their parent’s residency visa or passport to facilitate the issuance of Emirates ID.

Fill out the application form: Head to the official website and fill out the form completely and accurately. You can also apply via typing centres known as Emirates Identity Authority. After you have filled out the application, you will need to pay the fees. The Emirates ID fees and service fees are non-refundable irrespective of the circumstances.

Biometrics Appointment: After submitting your application, you will get an SMS or email about when you should go for a biometrics appointment. This is where they take your fingerprints and a photo of your ID. Every applicant of age 15 years and above should get their biometrics data submitted for the Emirates ID. These include taking a photo and recording the fingerprints and signatures digitally. Expatriates also need to submit health proof via approved medical centres.

And that’s it! you’ve got yourself an Emirates ID!

What is the use of an Emirates ID?

Identity Proof: First and foremost, it proves who you are to the officials of UAE in all sectors. It comes quite handy to get through most services if you have this ID in your hand. The card’s main purpose is to identify and verify the identity of all individuals staying in the UAE, including kids and infants.

Residency Verification: It’s the ultimate proof that you’re legally allowed to live in UAE. Since it is issued with your visa, it gives complete validation for your stay in the UAE. Without the Emirates ID, it would be quite impossible to get any kind of residency benefits.

Healthcare Access: Need a doctor? Show your Emirates ID and it becomes your gate pass to get medical services and health insurance claims in a hassle-free manner.

Easy Banking: Opening a bank account or getting a loan? It is a breeze if you are a UAE Emirate ID holder.

Voting Rights: That’s right! One of the Emirates ID benefits is that as a valid holder, you are eligible to vote in UAE.

Smooth Travels: Glide through airport immigration without any qualms. With the Emirates ID, you can use smart gates and enjoy the privilege of skipping tiresome immigration lines at UAE airports. The Emirate ID holder also gets the privilege to visit many destinations on visa-on-arrival benefits as well.

Ease in Financial and Utility Services: From paying your electricity bill, registering your car, getting a driver’s licence, and getting kids admission to UAE school, this ID makes bureaucratic chores less of a headache.

How much is the cost of an Emirates ID?

For UAE Nationals and GCC nationals:

ID cards with 5-year validity will cost around AED 100.

For UAE nationals:

ID cards with 10-year validity will cost around AED 200.

For Expats:

ID cards with 1-year validity will cost around AED 100 per year.
Service fees may be charged extra.
There is also an express service which will cost AED 150 extra.
An additional charge of AED 70 will also be levied as a service fee.

Do note that the rates can change without any intimation, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest fees on the official Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship website

Frequently asked questions – Emirates ID

 Can I apply for an Emirates ID if I am on a tourist visa?

No. The Emirates ID can only be applied by someone who wishes to stay in the UAE for longer periods and             contribute to the economy. It means you should be someone with a residential visa or work permit to get an Emirates ID.

Where do I submit my application to get an Emirates ID?

You have three options for submitting the application: through the Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA), a smartphone app, or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security’s official website.

Does the Emirates ID have an expiry date?

Yes. For Emiratis and GCC nationals, the expiry of the ID is 5 years or 10 years. For expats, the Emirates ID is valid only for one year. It is essential to remember – don’t wait until the last minute to renew it.

Conclusion

Securing an Emirates ID as an individual living in UAE makes life easier because it proves you are a legal resident. You’ll need it for lots of things here, so keep it safe and take it with you always. Remember, it’s more than just a card so treat it like you do your credit and debit cards – keep it secure.