The Emirates ID is the mandatory identity card issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) to all UAE nationals and residents. To get one, submit an application via ICP Smart Services or a licensed typing centre, attend a biometric appointment, and pay the applicable fees. For expats, the Emirates ID validity is matched to the residence visa duration — 2 or 3 years.
Do This Next
- Confirm your visa is stamped before applying — Emirates ID issuance follows visa activation
- Gather your passport, visa copy, and passport photo before opening the ICP portal
- Submit via ICP Smart Services online or visit a licensed typing centre
Table of Contents
Emirates ID Fees in UAE (2026)
Fee structures differ by nationality and validity period. Every application carries three components: a base card fee, a fixed ICP service fee of AED 40, and a typing or processing fee charged by the centre or typing office.
| Applicant Type | Validity | Base Fee | Service Fee | Typing Fee | Approx. Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAE Nationals | 5 years | AED 100 | AED 40 | AED 30–70 | AED 170–210 |
| UAE Nationals | 10 years | AED 200 | AED 40 | AED 30–70 | AED 270–310 |
| Expat Residents | 2 years | AED 200 | AED 40 | AED 30–70 | AED 270–310 |
| Expat Residents | 3 years | AED 300 | AED 40 | AED 30–70 | AED 370–410 |
The typing fee range of AED 30 to AED 70 reflects variation between ICP-run centres and private authorised typing offices. The total cost does not change if you apply online directly through ICP Smart Services rather than through a typing office — but the typing fee may be lower or waived.
Emirates ID typing fees are charged by the centre or typing office, not by ICP directly. The AED 40 service fee is the only fixed ICP charge on top of the base card fee.
For urgent issuance, the Fawri 24-hour service adds AED 150 on top of all standard fees. Expats can use Fawri only for lost or damaged card replacement — not for new applications or renewals.
How to Apply for a New Emirates ID
New applications are submitted through ICP Smart Services online, the UAEICP mobile app, or a licensed typing centre. Most expat applicants cannot apply for an Emirates ID before their residence visa is activated and stamped.
Documents required:
- Valid passport
- Residence visa (for expats)
- Passport-size photo
- Birth certificate (for newborns only)
Application Steps
- Submit your application via ICP Smart Services or at a licensed typing centre
- Receive an SMS confirming your biometric appointment date and location (applicants aged 15 and above)
- Attend an ICP Customer Happiness Center for fingerprinting and photo capture
- Pay the required fees through the portal or at the centre
- Track your application using the ICP Card Status Tool, Smart Services file status, or by calling the ICP helpline on 6005-22222
- Collect your Emirates ID from your designated Emirates Post branch
Standard processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date of biometric capture. The Emirates ID cannot be applied for or collected from outside the UAE — biometric capture requires a physical visit to an ICP Customer Happiness Center.
Pro Tip: If you apply through a typing centre, request a printed receipt showing your PRAN (application number). You will need this to track your application status and to confirm your biometric appointment slot.
Emirates ID Fees for 2 Years: Expat Applications
For expat residents on a 2-year visa, the base card fee is AED 200, giving a total of approximately AED 270 to AED 310 when the AED 40 service fee and typing charges are included.
Expat Emirates ID validity is matched to the residence visa duration — there is no option to choose a different period.
When the residence visa is renewed, a new Emirates ID application must be submitted. The old card is returned at the time of collection of the new one.
For context on what the Emirates ID unlocks once issued, the Emirates ID benefits page covers the 12 services tied to the card, including UAE PASS, Fazaa, and Esaad access.
Emirates ID Renewal and Late Fines
UAE nationals can renew up to 6 months before expiry. Expats must renew only after completing their residence visa renewal — the Emirates ID renewal cannot precede the visa renewal.
A grace period of 30 days applies after the expiry date before fines begin accumulating.
Late renewal fine: AED 20 per day, capped at AED 1,000.
Outstanding fines must be paid before any renewal or new application can be processed. You can check and pay Emirates ID fines via the Emirates ID fine check guide, which covers the MOI UAE app and Dubai Police portal steps.
Lost or Damaged Emirates ID Replacement
Report the loss at an ICP centre before applying for a replacement. The base replacement fee is AED 300, plus the standard AED 40 service fee and AED 30 to AED 70 typing charge. Urgent replacement through Fawri costs an additional AED 150.
Replacement cards are collected from the designated Emirates Post branch within 24 to 48 hours for Fawri, or within 7 to 10 business days for standard replacement.
For a full overview of residency documents and immigration checks, the UAE visa guide covers the connected processes — travel ban checks, absconding status, and visa fine verification.
FAQs
How much does an Emirates ID cost for 2 years in UAE?
For expat residents, a 2-year Emirates ID costs approximately AED 270 to AED 310. This includes the AED 200 base card fee, a fixed AED 40 ICP service fee, and a typing or processing fee of AED 30 to AED 70 depending on the centre used. Urgent Fawri issuance adds AED 150 on top of these fees.
How long does it take to get an Emirates ID in UAE?
Standard Emirates ID processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date of biometric capture at an ICP Customer Happiness Center. The Fawri urgent service issues the card within 24 hours for an additional AED 150. Delivery is through Emirates Post to the designated branch selected during application.
Can I apply for an Emirates ID online in UAE?
Yes. Applications are submitted online through the ICP Smart Services portal at smartservices.icp.gov.ae or through the UAEICP mobile app. However, the biometric appointment — fingerprinting and photo capture — must be completed in person at an ICP Customer Happiness Center. The Emirates ID cannot be issued without a biometric record.
What happens if I don’t renew my Emirates ID on time?
A late renewal fine of AED 20 per day applies after the 30-day grace period, capped at AED 1,000. Failing to renew can also result in restricted access to banking, utilities, and healthcare services. All outstanding fines must be paid before a renewal or new application is accepted by ICP. UAE nationals can begin renewal up to 6 months before expiry.
Is the Emirates ID validity the same as the visa validity for expats?
Yes. For expat residents, the Emirates ID validity is matched exactly to the residence visa duration. A 2-year visa produces a 2-year Emirates ID with a base fee of AED 200. A 3-year visa produces a 3-year Emirates ID with a base fee of AED 300. Expats do not have the option to choose a different validity period — it is determined by the visa type.
Last verified: April 2026
Reviewed by: UAE Content Team
Source: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP)
