The Emirates ID is a crucial document in the UAE. In this article you will learn everything you need to know about this document, from its function and application to the costs and validity period.
What is the Emirates ID?
The Emirates ID is essentially an identity card. It is issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship and must be carried at all times.
However, it is much more than just a means of identification. The Emirates ID card enables citizens and residents to:
- Access to government services
- To participate in the elections to the Federal National Council
- Travel freely within the GCC (citizens only)
- Pass through immigration through eGates and Smart Gates at various airports in the UAE
- Open a bank account in the UAE
- Real estate for sale / rent
It is important to know that the Emirates ID belongs only to you. It is against the law for anyone to take another person’s ID card permanently. Companies and other authorities are not permitted to retain the Emirates ID of customers, visitors or employees.
Apply for EID – Instructions
If you are equipped with the right knowledge, it is easy to get an Emirates ID.
The basic requirement is employment or company foundation in Dubai or the UAE.
Or also through Real estate investment via Golden Visa.
You then visit an authorized typing center or fill out an online form to submit your application. Once the form is completed, you will receive a text message telling you how to proceed with the application.
In most cases, only three further steps are necessary: submitting the biometric data and the medical examination, applying for the residence visa and collecting the ID card from an Emirates Post branch.
When applying, you usually have to present a valid passport and residence permit as well as a passport photo.
Alternatively, we can handle the entire process for you and you will receive your Emirates ID by post.
Costs
The costs for applying for and issuing the Emirates ID are broken down as follows.
AED 100 – issued for 5 years
AED 200 – Exhibition for 10 years (Only possible for Nationals)
AED 40 – Service fee
AED 30 – Pressure
Depending on the current AED EUR exchange rate, this amounts to around €100.
Duration
The Emirates ID is usually issued within seven to ten days after the visa has been stamped in the passport. You can track the application online and also receive updates via SMS. In the meantime, you can register free of charge and access the e-version.
Summary
The Emirates ID is the central document for private and business activities in the UAE. It is an identity card in credit card format, which can be applied for within one day for a small fee.
The validity of the Emirates ID is directly linked to that of the visa. As a rule, this is 2 years, after which it must be renewed. Exceptions are the Golden Visa and other special forms of visa.