Emirates ID Guide — Complete Process (2026)

Q: What happens if my Emirates ID expires?

There is a 30-day grace period after expiration in which renewal is allowed. After that, a late renewal fine of AED 20 per day (up to AED 1,000) may apply.

Q: How long does it take to get an Emirates ID?

Standard issuance typically takes 7–10 working days. For lost or damaged IDs with urgent replacement, issuance may occur within 24–48 hours.

Q: Can I apply for an Emirates ID from outside the UAE?

No. The application must be done inside the UAE, since biometrics and visa verification must occur locally.

Q: What documents are needed to renew or replace Emirates ID?

Documents include valid passport, residency visa (for expats), current Emirates ID (if renewing), a passport photo. For lost ID, a police report may be required.

Q: What is the cost to replace a lost Emirates ID?

The base replacement fee is AED 300. Through a typing centre, extra AED 70; via eForm, extra AED 40. Urgent replacement adds ~AED 150 surcharge.

Q: Is my Emirates ID validity linked to my visa?

Yes. For expatriates, the Emirates ID duration matches visa duration. For UAE citizens, reforms introduced a one-step renewal process with age-based validity.

Q: What should I do if I lose my Emirates ID?

Apply for replacement immediately (ideally within 7 days). Fees: AED 300 + service costs. Submit police report if required. Use urgent (Fawri) service if you want faster issuance.

“Your Emirates ID Guide (2026) explains everything about applying, renewing, and replacing your Emirates ID — making the process simple for residents and freelancers.This Emirates ID Guide provides a simple, step-by-step process for applying, renewing, or replacing your card in 2026”.

Who Needs an Emirates ID?

All UAE citizens and residents (including dependents and sponsored family members).
Expatriates applying for or renewing a residency visa.
Children must also have their own Emirates ID linked to their residency visa.

Validity

UAE Nationals: 5 or 10 years (renewable, can start 6 months before expiry).
Expatriates: Validity matches residency visa (usually 2 or 3 years; sometimes 10 years for Golden Visa holders).

Fees (as of 2026)

Base Fee: AED 100 per year of validity (e.g., 2 years = AED 200, 3 years = AED 300).
Service / Typing Fee: Varies by centre, often AED 30–50 extra.
Urgent (Fawri) Service: Available mainly for lost/damaged card replacement, ~AED 150 additional.
Replacement Fee: AED 300 + service fee if card is lost or damaged.

Note: Always confirm fees with your local ICP-accredited typing centre or via the official ICP portal.

Required Documents

Original passport (valid).
Valid UAE residency visa (for expats).
Recent passport-size photo with white background.
Old Emirates ID card (for renewal/replacement).
For newborns: Birth certificate + parent’s Emirates ID.

How to Apply or Renew (Step by Step)

Go to an ICP-accredited typing centre or apply online via the official ICP portal.
Fill out the Emirates ID application form and pay the required fee.
Book a biometric appointment (for new applicants or when renewal requires updated data).
Submit fingerprints and photo at the ICP service centre.
Wait for SMS/email confirmation — your Emirates ID will be processed.
Once ready, collect it from the post office or receive delivery (depending on application method).

Processing Time

Standard applications take 7–10 working days. Urgent (Fawri) replacement services are usually processed within 24 hours.

Latest Update (2026)

UAE Citizens: Renewal and replacement of Emirates ID is now a one-step process under the government’s Zero Bureaucracy initiative. For expatriates, the process remains tied to visa validity.

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only. Fees and processes can change — always confirm with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or an accredited typing centre before applying.

Emirates ID Fees, Typing & Validity (2026)

Below are estimated costs for Emirates ID based on validity, plus typical service/typing centre fees and urgent processing (Fawri). These are approximate — always confirm with your local ICP centre or authorized typing office.

Validity	Base Card Fee (AED)	Typing / Service Fee (AED)	Urgent / Fawri Surcharge	Approx Total (AED)
1 Year (if allowed)	100	~30–50	+150 (optional)	~130 – 300+
2 Years	200	~30–50	+150 (optional)	~230 – 400+
5 Years	500	~30–50	+150 (optional)	~530 – 700+
10 Years	1,000	~30–50	+150 (optional)	~1,030 – 1,200+

⚠️ Notes: - Typing / service fees vary by centre — some may charge AED 40+. Check with your nearest UAE ICP service centre.
- Urgent (Fawri) issuance usually adds around AED 150 surcharge. More info available at the ICP official website.
- ICP’s base fee is typically AED 100 per year of validity.
- Always confirm the actual price with your local centre before paying.

Frequently Asked Questions — Emirates ID Guide (2026)

1.How can I renew my Emirates ID online using this Emirates ID Guide?

You can renew your Emirates ID online via the ICP portal or mobile app. After submission, you may be asked to visit an ICP service centre if biometric updates are needed.

2. What happens if my Emirates ID expires?

This Emirates ID Guide explains that after expiry, you have a 30-day grace period… after expiry in which renewal is allowed. After that, a late renewal fine of AED 20 per day (up to AED 1,000) may apply. Services like banking or visa renewals may be suspended until renewal.

3. How long does it take to get an Emirates ID?

Standard applications typically take 7–10 working days. For lost or damaged IDs with urgent (Fawri) replacement, issuance may occur within 24–48 hours (depending on the service centre).

4. Can I apply for an Emirates ID from outside the UAE?

No. You need to be physically in the UAE to apply, since biometrics and visa verification must be done locally.

5. What documents are needed to renew or replace Emirates ID?

Required documents include valid passport, residency visa (for expats), current Emirates ID (if renewing), and a passport photo. For children, also include birth certificate and parent’s Emirates ID. For lost ID replacement, a police report may also be required.

6. What is the cost to replace a lost Emirates ID?

The base replacement fee is AED 300. If applying via a typing centre, expect an extra AED 70; via eForm, extra AED 40. Urgent replacement adds ~AED 150 surcharge.

7. Is my Emirates ID validity linked to my visa?

Yes. For expatriates, the Emirates ID is issued for the duration of your visa. For UAE citizens, recent government reforms introduced a one-step process for renewal/replacement with age-based validity.

8. What should I do if I lose my Emirates ID?

If your Emirates ID is lost, you must apply for replacement as soon as possible (ideally within 7 days). Pay the replacement fee (AED 300 + service/typing costs) and submit documents including police report (if required). Use urgent (Fawri) service if available to speed issuance.

Disclaimer: This Emirates ID Guide is an independent information resource and is not affiliated with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or any UAE government entity. All information provided here is for general guidance purposes only and may change without prior notice. Applicants should always verify the latest requirements, fees, and procedures directly from the official UAE government portals: ICP – Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship and U.AE – The Official Portal of the UAE Government.