This article is reviewed regularly by Wego’s editorial team to ensure that the content is up to date & accurate.
Updated March 2024
Given the importance of applying for an Emirates ID, which acts both as an identity card of the UAE’s citizens and residents and proof of residency, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has now released a new Emirates ID card registration form, which allows residents to track their application’s status and change the date for their fingerprint scanning.
Keep reading on Wego to find out more about Emirates ID card registration.
Table of Contents
What is the Emirates ID card?
The Emirates ID is an identity card of the UAE’s citizens and residents issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC) and is a legal requirement for all UAE citizens and residents, including newborn babies. It protects the individual’s identity and facilitates identification and verification as per international standards. UAE citizens and residents are obliged to apply for one and carry it with them at all times.
Since the UAE no longer requires visa stamping on passports, residents are therefore encouraged to carry their latest version of Emirates IDs to prevent delays at airports. The Emirates ID now functions as proof of residency since the latest version of the card contains all the relevant details allowing immigration counters at various airports to read the data stored on the ID.
To find learn more about the Emirates ID, please visit our dedicated Emirates ID article.
Book cheap flights to UAE
Emirates ID card features
The Emirates ID card is equipped with advanced components to ensure maximum accuracy and security. These components include:
- Smart card technology
- Public key infrastructure for digital signature and authentication certificates
- Fingerprint biometrics
Identification Number
The ID card features a unique identification number that remains with the holder indefinitely. This number grants access to governmental and select non-governmental and private services requiring ID verification. The identity number is distinct and consists of 15 digits.
Electronic Chip
The card contains a chip storing the holder’s personal data, accessible and authenticated by specialized machines. Certain data is encrypted and managed exclusively by authorized authorities to safeguard privacy. The chip has a capacity of storing up to 32,000 letters of information.
Advanced Technologies
The Emirates ID card employs cutting-edge smart card technology, including precise lettering, ultraviolet ink, and line drawing. With nine security features surpassing industry standards, the card is highly resistant to forgery, setting a new benchmark in card security comparable to banking credit cards.
How to register for the Emirates ID card?
The Emirates ID card registration process can either be done through the ICP portal or through accredited typing centres. You can find out the complete list of accredited Emirates ID card biometric centres here.
Alternatively, applicants applying for the Emirates ID through the ICP portal or the UAEICP App need to follow the steps given below:
- visit the ICP portal or open the UAEICP App
- enter your email address to register for the UAE Pass account
- you will also need to indicate your UAE phone number.
- gather the required documents
- choose “Residence permit & Emirates ID Issuance Sercive”
- submit the application review and update the retrieved data
- make the payment
- receive your Emirates ID through the certified delivery company. It has been approved as an alternative to proof of the residence visa on the stamped passport.
