If you’re living in the UAE or planning to move here in 2025, one of the first essential documents you’ll need is the Emirates ID UAE 2025 — a government-issued identity card provided by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). This smart card securely stores your personal details, photo, fingerprints, and a unique 15-digit number on a small chip.
But the Emirates ID is much more than just an identity card. It’s your gateway to everyday life in the UAE — from opening a bank account and getting a mobile phone connection to signing rental contracts and using e-gates at airports. It’s also necessary for accessing government services, healthcare, and digital platforms like UAE Pass for online transactions.
So, who must have an Emirates ID? Everyone living in the UAE in 2025 — including UAE citizens, GCC nationals, and expatriates holding residence visas. Even newborns and children are required to obtain one. For citizens, the ID also facilitates voting and GCC travel, while for expats, it serves as proof of legal residency and work status in the country.
What is the Emirates ID?
The Emirates ID is a government-issued identity card mandatory for UAE citizens, residents, and expats. Issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), the card contains personal and biometric data and is used across all legal, governmental, and financial platforms in the UAE
Emirates Identity Cards (Emirates IDs or EIDs) are mandatory identification cards issued to citizens and residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Why is the Emirates ID important in the UAE?
- Verifying your identity and residency status
- Accessing healthcare, banking, and utility services
- Signing contracts, leasing properties, and obtaining mobile numbers
- Enabling access to e-Gate at UAE airports
- Facilitating digital identity verification and paperless services
Who Needs an Emirates ID?
- UAE Nationals
- UAE Residents
- GCC Nationals residing in the UAE
- Expats with valid UAE visas
- Children and newborns must also have one
- Smart chip storing biometric and demographic data
- Acts as official proof of identity in the UAE
- Includes UAE Pass integration for digital services
- Used in health insurance, vehicle registration, and government portals
How to Apply for an Emirates ID?
- ICP Official Portal – https://icp.gov.ae
- Authorized Typing Centers across the UAE
- Original passport
- UAE residence visa (for expats)
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Entry permit or UAE birth certificate (for newborns)
- Fill the form online or via typing center
- Pay the applicable Emirates ID fees
- Complete biometric scanning at the nearest ICP center
- Track your application status
- Collect your Emirates ID card from the designated post office or delivery service
What is Emirates ID Fees in the UAE (as of 2025)?
The cost of an Emirates ID in the UAE (as of 2025) depends on the type of application—whether it is a new issuance, renewal, or replacement—as well as the applicant’s residency status. For residents (expatriates), the base card issuance fee is AED 100 per year of visa validity. For instance, a 2-year residence visa would incur an Emirates ID issuance fee of AED 200. Application or service charges vary, with online applications costing around AED 40 and typing center submissions approximately AED 70, which includes both service and typing fees. An optional urgent processing service is available for AED 150.
For UAE nationals and GCC nationals, the card issuance fee is AED 100 for a 5-year validity and AED 200 for a 10-year card. A service fee of AED 50 applies, along with an additional AED 30 typing center fee if not applied online. Urgent processing is also available at AED 150.
In case of lost, stolen, or damaged Emirates ID cards, the replacement fee is AED 300. Applicants also need to pay AED 70 for typing center services or AED 40 if applying online. For urgent replacements, an additional AED 150 can be paid to expedite the process at any ICA Customer Happiness Center.
Applications can be submitted through the official ICP website or mobile app, authorized typing centers, Amer centers, or in person at ICA Customer Happiness Centers across the UAE.
Note: Additional service charges may apply based on how you apply (online, urgent, etc.)
- Validity typically matches the visa duration
- UAE Nationals: up to 5 or 10 years
- Residents: based on visa term
- UAE Nationals: 5 or 10 years.
- GCC Nationals: 5 years.
- Expats:Dependent on the expiry date of the accompanying residency visa.
- Check Validity: Verify your Emirates ID’s expiry date.
- Online Application: You can renew your ID online through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) website or the ICP app.
- Required Documents: You’ll need to provide your Emirates ID, passport, and visa (for expats).
- Biometrics: Depending on your age and previous registration, you might need to provide new biometric data (fingerprints).
- Fees: Renewal fees vary based on your nationality and the validity period.
- Collection: The renewed ID can be collected from a designated center or delivered via courier.
- Grace Period: You have 30 days after the expiry date to renew your ID without incurring late fines.
- Late Fines: After the grace period, late fines of AED 20 per day, up to a maximum of AED 1000, may apply
- Visa Renewal: For expats, the Emirates ID is renewed alongside the residency visa
- Online Services: The ICP website and app offer various services, including renewal, status checking, and more.
- Report it immediately to ICP
- Request a replacement application online
- Pay a replacement fee (AED 300 to AED 370)
- Collect the new card after processing
As the UAE continues to digitize and streamline government services, the Emirates ID remains the cornerstone of legal identity, access, and compliance for both citizens and residents. Whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing, or replacing your card, staying informed about the latest fees, procedures, and service channels is essential to avoid delays, fines, or service disruptions. With flexible options such as online applications, urgent processing, and multiple service centers, the process is now more efficient than ever.
Need help navigating your Emirates ID or other government paperwork in the UAE? Let trusted service providers like Krezko assist you with fast, compliant, and professional support.