How to Check your Emirates ID Status?

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Last updated on December 13, 2024

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In the United Arab Emirates, the Emirates ID is an essential identification card that every resident must possess. This smart card contains vital information about the individual, including their personal details, residency status, and more.

The Emirates ID is not only a form of identification but also serves as proof of residency and is required for various government services and transactions in the UAE.

Checking your UAE Emirates ID status is crucial to ensure that your information is up to date and that your card is still valid. So, if you’re new to it, don’t worry! We will explain everything you need to know about your Emirates ID card status so you can make informed and timely decisions.

Table of Contents

What is Emirates ID?

The Emirates ID, also known as the Emirates identity card, is the UAE’s official national identity card. It’s issued and managed by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC). By law, all UAE citizens and residents must enroll in the program and always carry this ID with them.

The Emirates ID contains an electronic chip that stores the cardholder’s personal information in an encrypted format, including:

Name
Photograph
Signature
Date of Birth
Nationality
Biometric data (fingerprints)

What’s the Purpose of Emirates ID?

Here are some of the key aspects of Emirates ID:

Acts as the primary form of identification accepted by all government agencies throughout the UAE.
Can be used for voting in Federal National Council elections (for citizens).
Serves as a travel document for UAE citizens traveling within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
Allows UAE citizens and residents to pass through immigration via eGates and smart gates at several airports in the UAE.
Used to access many government services.

When Do You Need to Use Your Emirates ID?

Your Emirates ID is your key to many things in the UAE, you’ll need it for a variety of situations including:

1. Government Services

Any interaction with a government entity, local or federal, requires presenting your Emirates ID. This includes applying for services, licenses, permits, or registering for programs.

2. Banking and Finance

Opening a bank account, applying for a loan, or using certain banking services typically requires showing your Emirates ID as proof of identity.

3. Daily Life

Renting an apartment, applying for a phone number, getting a utility connection (water, electricity) usually involve presenting your Emirates ID.

4. Travel

UAE citizens can use their Emirates ID for travel within the GCC countries. At some UAE airports, you can use your Emirates ID to pass through immigration.

5. Driving and Transportation

Obtaining a driver’s license or registering a vehicle with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) often involves presenting your Emirates ID.

6. Payments

Some fuel stations and convenience stores might allow you to link your Emirates ID to a digital wallet for payments, like the ADNOC Wallet.

How to Check your Emirate ID Status?

There are two easy ways to check your UAE Emirates ID status in the UAE:

1. Online Through FAIC Website

Visit the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC) website. (https://icp.gov.ae/en/services/priority-services/id-card-status/)
Look for the section titled “Check ID status” or “Track Application Status” (it might be on the right side of the homepage).
Enter your Emirates ID number (excluding the hyphen) or your application number (PRAN) in the designated field. PRAN stands for Personal Registration Acknowledgment Number. It’s a unique identification number assigned to individuals during the application process for an Emirates ID card.
You might also need to select your nationality and enter your date of birth for verification (depending on the website’s setup).
Click “Submit” or follow the on-screen instructions to view your application status.

2. Contact the FAIC Call Center

If you’re unable to access the website or prefer speaking to someone directly, you can call the FAIC Call Center.

Be prepared to provide your Emirates ID number, name, and any other relevant details when speaking to a representative. They can then check your application status and answer any questions you may have.

If you’re newly applying to your Emirates ID, here’s how you can do it.

How to Apply for Emirates ID?

There are two main ways to apply for an Emirates ID in the UAE:

1. Online through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC) Website

Head to the FAIC website (https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id).
Look for the section on applying for a new Emirates ID card.
You’ll need to create an account or log in if you already have one.
The online application will guide you through the process, including providing your personal information, uploading scanned copies of required documents, and scheduling an appointment (if necessary).
You’ll also be able to pay the application fees online.

2. In person at a typing center or Amer center

Locate a typing center or Amer center approved by the FAIC.
Bring all the original required documents to the typing center or service center.
The staff will guide you through the application process, which may involve filling out a form and having your biometrics (fingerprints) scanned.
You’ll need to pay the application fees at the center.

Once your application is processed, you’ll be notified on how to collect your Emirates ID card. This might involve picking it up from a service center or receiving it by mail.

Required Documents:

The documents you need will depend on your nationality and situation. But generally, you’ll need:

Original Passport
Residence visa stamped in your passport (for expats)
Family Book (for UAE Nationals applying through typing centers or online)
Proof of residency in the UAE (for GCC nationals)
A colored passport-sized photograph with a white background

How Much Time Does It Take to Get Your Emirates ID?

Typically, it takes around 7 to 15 working days to receive your Emirates ID card after submitting the application (online or in-person). This timeframe is an estimate and can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

The FAIC offers an expedited service called “Fawri” for an additional fee. This service can get your Emirates ID within 24 hours.

Why Check Emirates ID Status?

There are several reasons why someone might want to check their UAE Emirates ID status:

1. Track Application Progress

If you’ve recently applied for a new Emirates ID, a renewal, or a replacement, checking the status allows you to see if it’s been approved, printed, and is ready for collection.

2. Verify Validity

Unsure about the expiry date of your Emirates ID? Checking the status confirms its validity and helps you avoid potential issues like fines for using an expired ID.

3. Planning for Renewal

A residency visa in the UAE is tied to your Emirates ID. Checking the status can give you a heads-up on upcoming renewals for both your visa and ID to allow you to plan and avoid any last-minute complications.

4. After Traveling Abroad

If you’ve been outside the UAE for a while, there’s a chance your residency visa might be cancelled. Checking the status helps you confirm if your Emirates ID and visa remain active.

What is the Cost of Obtaining an Emirates ID?

This is a one-time fee charged for processing your application and issuing the card. It can range from around AED 70 (applied when applying online) to AED 175 (applied through typing centres). However, the total cost can vary depending on other factors such as application type, validity period, urgent services, etc.

The exact fee structure can vary slightly depending on the specific circumstances. It’s always best to check the official website or getting expert consultation such as from Shuraa Business Setup.

How To Cancel Your Emirates ID?

In most cases, you wouldn’t directly cancel your Emirates ID. It’s automatically deactivated when your residency visa gets cancelled.

When you leave the UAE permanently or change jobs within the country, you initiate a residency visa cancellation process through your employer or the relevant government department. Once your residency visa gets cancelled, the authorities will automatically deactivate your Emirates ID. During the visa cancellation process, the respective government department will likely ask you to surrender your physical Emirates ID card.

If your Emirates ID gets lost or stolen before your visa cancellation, you should report it immediately to the FAIC. They can deactivate the card to prevent misuse.

Moving Your Business to Dubai? Secure Your Emirates IDs with Shuraa

Knowing how to check your Emirates ID status is an essential skill for anyone living in the UAE. It is essential to stay on top of this process to avoid any issues or complications in the future. Remember, your Emirates ID is not just a piece of plastic – it is your key to accessing a wide range of services and benefits in the UAE.

However, an expired Emirates ID can lead to inconveniences and even fines. Regularly checking the status ensures you stay compliant and avoid any potential issues.

Moving Your Business to Dubai? We Can Help! if you’re considering establishing your business in Dubai, it’s essential to have all your Emirates ID requirements in order. For expert consultation and assistance with all your Emirates ID needs, consider reaching out to Shuraa Business Setup.

Our team of experts will guide you through every step of the way, from gathering documents and applications to UAE company registration, licensing, and PRO services. Let us handle the complexities while you focus on your business goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Do I Check My Emirates ID Status?

To check your Emirates ID application status, you can use the UAE government’s official system by entering your Application Number (PRAN) or Emirates ID Number. You can also contact the helpline for further assistance with tracking your application status.

2. How Do I Renew My Emirates ID?

You can renew your Emirates ID online through the official website. Here’s how to renew it:

Visit a typing center or Emirates ID service center approved by the FAIC.
Bring your original passport, valid residence visa, and any other documents requested by the center.
Pay the renewal fees.
You’ll be notified on how to collect your renewed Emirates ID after processing.

3. Can I check my Emirates ID card status through a mobile app?

Yes! You can download the ICA Smart Services mobile app and use it to check your Emirates ID status. The app allows you to log in with your credentials and access a section dedicated to “Emirates ID” or “ID Status Inquiry” where you can enter your ID number or application number to view the status.

4. Can I check the UAE Emirates ID status without an application number?

Yes, you can check your Emirates ID status without an application number (PRAN) as long as you have your valid Emirates ID number (excluding the hyphen).

5. What happens if my Emirates ID expires?

Using an expired Emirates ID can lead to inconveniences or even fines in the UAE. If your ID is nearing expiry, it’s crucial to initiate the renewal process well in advance to ensure a smooth transition.

6. How Often Should I Check My Emirates ID Status?

It’s a good practice to check your Emirates ID status periodically, especially if your visa is nearing expiry.