If you have recently moved to UAE or are a new citizen there, you might have heard about an Emirates ID. It is essentially a resident card or identification required by all UAE residents and citizens. It has the personal information of every UAE resident and must be carried with you at all times. This ID gets issued directly from the EIDA or Emirates Identification Authority.
This ID card comes with an electronic chip that authorities can scan for the required information. For instance, on scanning, you will get personal information like basic details, your biometric data, and a photo. You can also use this ID card on a number of different transactions. The most common examples include paying your utility bills, registering vehicles, and even paying fines.
The main goal of this ID is to replace your driving license and debit card. Recently, in 2016, the Emirates ID card replaced health insurance cards as well. However, if you are new to the country and have no idea how to get yourself an Emirates ID, this article is a perfect read. Here you will learn everything there is to about the application process.
- Apply For It:
To start the process, you will first need to apply for the card. You can get an application form from any of the approved typing offices or online as well. One quick search on the internet can help you find the many different typing offices in the country. However, you will have to pay a fee of 30 AED for the form.
- Visit EIDA:
Once you have submitted the form, you will get notified directly on your phone via text message. The message will further tell you the date, time, and location as to which EIDA branch you have to visit. At the office, you will have to submit your fingerprints, and a photograph will be clicked.
On completion, you will be given a receipt. It is very important that you keep the receipt safe, as you will need that at the time of collection. While going to the EIDA office, you will need to carry your
UAE NATIONALS
- Family book
- Emirates ID application
- Valid passport
UAE RESIDENTS
- Emirates ID application
- Passport
- Visa or work permit
All of this is a rather swift process and take only a few hours. Once all the formalities are done, you will have to pay 100 AED each year to maintain Emirates ID validity.
- Tracking:
With that, your role is complete. Now all you have to do is wait for the Emirates ID to arrive. You can track the Emirates ID status from your phone through the EIDA website. All you have to do is type in the account number. Once complete, your ID will be sent to your local post office. You will get a text message saying the same.
After arrival, you should collect your card within 90 days. Failure to do that will result in the card being returned and discarded.