The Emirates ID is mandatory for everyone living in the UAE — residents, citizens, and even some long-stay visitors. The first issuance follows a fixed sequence: ICP application, biometrics, and card delivery. This guide explains the 2026 process, fees, and the realistic delivery timeline.
Who needs an Emirates ID
- Every UAE resident with a residence visa.
- UAE citizens.
- GCC nationals residing in the UAE for over 90 days.
- Long-stay visitors in some categories (Green Visa pre-approval, retiree).
You cannot open a bank account, sign a tenancy contract, register a vehicle, or activate a mobile contract without an Emirates ID.
Two parallel processes — visa and EID
Emirates ID is part of the broader residence visa workflow. When you receive a residence visa, ICP automatically opens an Emirates ID file. The EID application is filed alongside the visa and processed through the same channel — ICP smart services for most emirates and the GDRFA / Amer track for Dubai.
2026 fees
| Item | Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| Emirates ID — 1 year | 170 |
| Emirates ID — 2 years | 270 |
| Emirates ID — 3 years | 370 |
| Emirates ID — 5 years | 570 |
| Emirates ID — 10 years (Golden Visa) | 1,070 |
| Express service | + 150 |
| Typing / processing | 30 – 75 |
Documents required
- Passport (original and copy)
- Entry permit / residence visa stamping
- Recent passport photo (white background)
- For dependents: sponsor's Emirates ID and visa copy
- Marriage / birth certificate (attested) for spouse and children
Step-by-step
- Submit the residence visa application (ICP / GDRFA).
- Receive the entry permit and Emirates ID file number.
- Complete medical fitness test at an approved centre (DHA, SEHA, or MOHAP).
- Book biometrics appointment via the UAEICP app or smart services portal.
- Attend biometrics — fingerprints, photograph, and signature captured.
- Pay Emirates ID fee online or at the centre.
- Track the card status via UAEICP app.
- Receive the card by Emirates Post within 7–10 working days of biometrics completion.
Timeline expectations
| Stage | Typical duration |
|---|---|
| Entry permit issuance | 3 – 5 working days |
| Medical fitness test | 1 – 3 working days for results |
| Biometrics appointment | Same week or next week |
| Card production | 3 – 5 working days |
| Delivery by Emirates Post | 3 – 7 working days after production |
| Total: entry permit to card-in-hand | 2 – 4 weeks |
Express options
Two express channels are available for urgent cases:
- Fawri service — same-day Emirates ID printing at selected ICP centres for AED 150 extra.
- Express delivery via Emirates Post — AED 25 surcharge for next-day delivery once printed.
Fawri is available for new applications, renewals, and replacements but requires walking into an ICP customer-happiness centre.
Children and dependents
Children's Emirates IDs follow the parent's visa schedule. For newborns, parents must apply within 120 days of birth or face overstay fines on the child. Biometrics for children under 15 are limited to a photograph; fingerprints are added when the child renews after age 15.
Common reasons for delay
- Mismatch between passport name and biometric record.
- Failed medical fitness test (re-test required).
- Address not registered in ICP system.
- Emirates Post delivery to incorrect or unrecorded address.
- Biometrics not completed within 60 days of entry permit.
If the card is lost in delivery
Track delivery on the Emirates Post portal using the tracking number from your ICP confirmation. If the package shows as delivered but you have not received it, contact ICP customer service (600-522222) within 14 days. Replacement procedures follow the same flow as a lost EID — see our EID replacement guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Emirates ID valid?
The validity matches the residence visa — 1, 2, 3, 5, or 10 years.
Can I apply for an Emirates ID without a residence visa?
Generally no for foreigners — the EID is tied to a visa file. UAE and GCC nationals follow a simpler citizen-track application.
What if I miss my biometrics appointment?
Re-book through the UAEICP app. Repeated no-shows can delay card issuance by weeks.
Do I need to attend biometrics in person?
Yes. ICP captures fingerprints, photograph, and signature on-site. There is no remote alternative.
Can I use a digital Emirates ID before the card arrives?
Yes. The UAE PASS app issues a digital EID immediately after biometrics complete. Most government services and many banks accept the digital version.
Is the Emirates ID number permanent?
Yes. The 15-digit EID number stays with you for life and is reissued on every renewal.
Can I update my address on the card?
Yes — through the UAEICP app under "Update Address". The change does not require a new card.
How we help
Visa Simplified manages first-time Emirates ID applications as part of every residence visa package via our new Emirates ID service. We book biometrics appointments, monitor delivery, and resolve any ICP exceptions on your behalf. Service fees are fully refundable until the application is filed. For renewals, see our EID renewal guide.
Need help with this?
Our PRO consultants handle the full process end-to-end — documents, government submission, and delivery. Service fee is fully refundable pre-submission.