As you probably know by now, your Emirates ID status is one of the most important aspects of your new life in the UAE. This unique identifier, which is issued by the UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA), contains all of your essential information including your name, a photo, original nationality, birthday, and a 15-digit unique number assigned to you. Your biometric data such as fingerprints and other information are also stored on the microchip contained within the card.
Why do I need to check the status of my Emirates ID?
There are several reasons why the holder of an Emirates ID would want to check the status of their card:
- Because it is mandatory for everyone living in the UAE, you would not be able to carry out official activities without it. From applying for a visa to opening a bank account to registering your personal vehicles and even obtaining utility services, none of this would be possible without an Emirates ID. So, if your Emirates ID is invalid or expired, legal consequences would be around the corner.
- The Emirates ID is the key to accessing the many essential services that UAE offers to its citizens and residents. Healthcare, Government services/transactions, and financial services also require an Emirates ID that is valid. By staying on top of the id status check, you will not face any issues when accessing services such as these mentioned.
- It serves as a handy way to keep all your accurate personal details updated. Paving the way towards efficiency in your new life in the UAE. Because the Emirates ID contains address, title, and nationality, any official transaction will happen swiftly with an up-to-date Emirates ID.
- Once your Emirates ID expires, you may have to pay a hefty fine for each day that passes without a renewal effort. By regularly checking the id card status checking, you can avoid these fines.
Steps to check the status of your Emirates ID
Website
The easiest way to stay up to date with the status of your Emirates ID is to visit the ICA website (https://icp.gov.ae.) Once on the homepage, click on the E-Services tab and navigate to the Check Application Status icon.
Once here, all you have to do is enter your application number (If applying for a new ID or going through with a renewal). If you have an existing ID, then the ID number alone would suffice. Click Submit and the portal will show you the id status of your Emirates ID. It would either mention Processed, Dispatched, or Needs Renewal.
Mobile App
To make life easier for UAE residents the ICA also has its own Mobile App which can be downloaded through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Once downloaded, the App will prompt you to register. Fill in your details to create an account and then log in to the platform.
The App’s menu will have an option to track the status of your application, similar to the website, key in your Application number or Emirates ID number.
You will then be shown the emirates id status, which could be either in processing or renewal status.
Hotline
If you would prefer to go through the ICA’s Customer Service contact centre, you can reach them by dialling 600 522 222. Have your Emirates ID Number and Application Number on hand, as the agent will need it to check his system.
You will then be informed about the current status of your Emirates ID and if there are any measures to be taken.
Typing Center
The ICA has several Typing Centers and Service Centers spread across the UAE. Find the one closest to you and visit them with your Emirates ID or Application Number. Once given to the service agent, you will be assisted with the process to check the status of your Emirates ID. If there are any pending actions to be taken, they will guide on the same as well.
Keeping your Emirates ID updated
After the updated Emirates ID is in your hands, carefully go through it and make sure that all your information printed on the card is correct. If any of the details were to change, for example, your address or job title, be sure to update the Emirates ID to avoid issues when proving your identity for official purposes.
Penalties for non-renewal
After your Emirates ID reaches its expiration date, you have a month to begin the renewal process. After a month passes, you will be liable for a daily fine of AED 20, up to a maximum of AED 1,000.
In some cases where wrong personal information has been provided, you may have to face additional penalties.
Apart from the fines, without a valid Emirates ID, you may also face many legal complications which may have their own fines in place.
An expired Emirates ID will also have an effect on your visa renewals as it will raise red flags at the department of immigration. It goes without saying that because of this, your residency status in the UAE will be impacted as well.
What to do if your Emirates ID expires?
Immediate renewal is the best course of action. Ideally, you would want to begin the renewal process even before the Emirates ID expires so that you are always in the green.
If you have to pay any fines, pay them in full as you cannot proceed with a renewal if you have any pending fines that need attention.
Update your information and ensure that all the details on your Emirates ID (like address, job title) are accurate when renewing.
How can SetHub help?
SetHub is well-versed with Emirates ID applications and renewals. We’ve helped countless individuals just like you over the years with their applications, renewals, fines, and all other things related to the emirated. If you still feel a little lost about this process, schedule a call with one of our experts to get some tailored advice. We understand that your situation may be unique to you, so our promise is that you will hear back from us within one business hour!
